Katsumoto Castle, Medieval fortress in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan
Katsumoto Castle is a medieval hilltop fortress on Iki Island that combines wooden and stone structures built across multiple levels. The buildings follow the natural slope of the land and create a connected network of defensive positions, living quarters, and storage areas.
The fortress was built during Japan's feudal period and served as a military stronghold to control trade routes and protect the western region. It was an important base for maintaining regional power and monitoring shipping activity in the surrounding waters.
The fortress displays traditional Japanese building methods with features designed for both defense and the residence of a regional lord. The arrangement of structures reflects how people organized their lives in a castle, with separate areas for living, storing goods, and watching over the land.
The fortress sits atop a hill and is reached by following marked paths from the train station on foot. The visit involves climbing, so wearing sturdy shoes and allowing time for the walk uphill is advisable.
The fortress sits at the northern tip of Iki Island, giving those who controlled it a far-reaching view of the Korea Strait. This location allowed rulers to monitor and control all ship movements passing between Korea and Japan.
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