Hachisuka Castle, Feudal fortress in Tokushima, Japan
Hachisuka Castle is a Japanese castle built on Shiroyama hill in Tokushima, Japan. What remains today are layered stone walls and several gateways that follow the hillside's natural shape, offering views over the city from the top.
Hachisuka Iemasa had this castle built in 1585 after receiving the domain from the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Through the long peace that followed Japan's reunification, it served as the seat of power for the surrounding region.
The grounds around the ruins are a popular walking spot for locals, who come for the view over the city below. The stone walls and old gateways that remain give a clear sense of how the site once dominated the surrounding area.
The walk up to the castle from the nearest bus stop takes around 20 minutes, with signs marking the way. The path goes uphill on uneven ground, so sturdy shoes make the climb easier.
The Hachisuka family started out as bandits before rising to become powerful feudal lords under Toyotomi Hideyoshi. This unusual path to power shows how sharply fortunes could turn during Japan's warring periods.
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