Château d'Utsu Yamashiro, Medieval fortress at Hamanako Lake shore, Japan.
Château d'Utsu Yamashiro is a medieval fortress located on Mount Utsu at 49.5 meters (162 ft) above lake level, overlooking the western shore of Lake Hamana with fortified walls and defensive structures. From this elevated position, it controlled the surrounding waterways and strategic passages.
It was built between 1521 and 1527 under Imagawa Ujichika's command by Nagaike Chikataka as a stronghold for controlling maritime trade routes. The fortress fell to Tokugawa forces in 1568, ending its role as a military outpost.
The Shōtaiji Temple on the castle grounds displays historical objects and documents that reflect the site's spiritual and military past. Visitors can sense how religion and defense were intertwined in this place.
The ruins can be reached by a short five-minute walk from Shōtaiji Temple, and parking is available nearby for visitors. The path uphill is moderately steep but well worth the effort for the views from the summit.
The fortress contains hidden structures near the shore that served as escape routes for soldiers during battles. These concealed passages reveal how carefully the stronghold was designed for rapid retreats.
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