Ōmine Castle

Ōmine Castle is a ruin in a mountainous area of Nagano Prefecture, featuring remnants of fortifications, earthworks, and moats from its original design. The remains sit on a sloped location that once provided defensive advantage.

The fortress was founded in 1274 by the Kudō clan and later controlled by the Nagano clan as their power base. During this period, it served as a strategic outpost for the regions around Anno and Anki.

The castle displays the yamashiro style of Japanese fortifications, where natural terrain was integrated into the defensive design. Visitors can observe how the sloped location was used strategically to protect against attacks.

The site gained National Historic Site status in 1982 and welcomes visitors to explore its remains. Sturdy footwear is advisable since the terrain is uneven and sometimes steep.

Between 1360 and 1362, the castle endured one of medieval Japan's longest sieges, conducted by Niki Yoshinaga. This years-long confrontation demonstrates the remarkable resilience of the fortification.