Yanagawa Castle

Yanagawa Castle is a medieval fortress surrounded by water-filled moats that connect to rivers and canals, creating multiple layers of defense. The remaining stone walls are still visible and outline the central protected area of the original stronghold.

The fortress was built in the early 1500s by Taira no Chikayoshi and later passed through the hands of several clans who ruled this region during times of conflict. Each ruling family modified the structures to strengthen their grip on power in the area.

The residences scattered across the grounds reveal how samurai families lived together on the site and how their social ranks shaped where they built their homes. Walking through these spaces, you notice how the architecture and layout reflect the hierarchy that governed daily life here.

You can explore the site on foot or take boat tours through the moat system to see the layout and understand the defensive design. Wear sturdy shoes since some areas involve water and uneven ground from the natural landscape.

The fortress integrated natural wetlands and waterways into its defenses rather than relying solely on built structures, making it nearly impossible to assault. This blend of water and geography made it one of the hardest strongholds to capture in medieval Japan.

Location: Yanagawa

Inception: 1500s

Founders: 蒲池治久

GPS coordinates: 33.16098,130.40118

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:05