Amazaki Castle, Maritime fortress in Imabari, Japan
Amazaki Castle occupies a small island near Omishima's coast and was a maritime installation strategically positioned within the Seto Inland Sea. The ruins still reveal traces of stone walls and fortified sections that once made up the castle structure.
The fortress was founded in the 7th century and ranks among Japan's earliest installations built specifically for maritime defense. It played a key role in regional military strategies during its period of active use.
This served as a naval base for the Murakami clan, a sea power known for controlling waters through island fortifications. Visitors can sense how the location was built specifically to project power over the surrounding straits.
The site is only accessible during very low tide between April and July, when a sandy pathway forms to the island. Visitors should check tide tables and wear sturdy footwear to safely cross the exposed route.
The fortress was divided by substantial stone walls into separate fortified sections, reflecting a layered defense strategy. This division made it far more difficult for an adversary to advance through multiple zones simultaneously.
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