Kaneyama Castle, Mountain fortress in Kani, Japan
Kaneyama Castle is a mountain fortress sitting at 273 meters elevation that spreads across about 300 meters of ridge with stone walls and multiple defensive sections. The site features different levels of fortification built into the terrain.
The site was founded in 1537 and later served as a strategic outpost under the Oda clan, which controlled the region during the 16th century. Its importance lay in commanding passage along nearby river routes.
The ruins carry a name reflecting their setting, and visitors today walk among the stone walls nestled between forested slopes. The remains reveal how defenders used the mountain's natural shape to their advantage.
The site sits about an hour's walk from the nearest train station and lies in hilly terrain with unpaved paths. Visitors should bring sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the trails are steep and often muddy.
The inner courtyard had a small footprint and featured a watchtower at its entrance, giving the fortress a compact layout. Builders used the steep slopes all around as additional natural barriers.
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