Tenjinyama Castle, Mountain castle ruins in Wake, Japan
Tenjinyama Castle is a fortress ruin in Wake that stretches across a mountain ridge marked by steep cliffs. The site sits strategically above the Yoshii River and includes multiple defended areas connected by walls and earthen barriers.
The Uragami clan built this fortress in 1554 and made it their main stronghold in Bizen province. The site served as an administrative center and military control point during the clan's regional dominance.
The castle incorporates traditional Japanese defensive architecture with multiple baileys, stone walls, earthworks, and a taiko drum tower for military communications.
The ruins require a steep climb through forested mountain terrain. Good equipment and enough time are needed to navigate the site safely.
A deep V-shaped ravine separates the main area from specialized secondary zones, revealing careful defensive planning. This division helped protect the core of the fortress from intrusion.
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