Katsunuma clan residence ruins, Medieval fortified residence in Koshu, Japan
The Katsunuma clan residence is a medieval fortified site in Koshu situated on a river terrace overlooking the Hikawa River at 418 meters elevation. The compound is protected by earthen walls and moats on its northern and eastern sides, with remains of around 23 buildings still visible, including workshops, living quarters, and water systems.
The residence belonged to the Katsunuma family, who served the Takeda clan until its collapse in the early 1600s. The site fell into decline after the family was accused of betraying Takeda Shingen, leading to the abandonment and eventual destruction of the compound.
The residence reveals how the Katsunuma family lived and worked here, with traces of workshops and living areas visible through excavated foundations. The Chinese pottery found on site shows that the family was prosperous and well-connected to distant trade networks.
When visiting, you can see reconstructed gates and original stone foundations with information panels explaining the building layout. The grounds are easy to walk through, with good signage and viewpoints that give you a sense of how the entire compound was organized.
The site yielded evidence of gold refining activities, with melting vessels containing metal residues discovered within workshop areas. This finding suggests the family engaged in valuable commercial crafts beyond their role as landowners and military retainers.
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