Aki Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Aki, Japan
Aki Castle is a fortress ruins located on a hill in the Aki plain, featuring stone walls, moats, and defensive structures with the Aki River flowing along its eastern side. The site covers a large area with several distinct sections that reflect the strategic layout of the original fortification.
In 1569, the castle fell to the Chosokabe clan following a 24-day siege, after which Lord Aki Kunitora performed ritual suicide at Joteiji Temple. This collapse marked the end of Aki rule and followed the larger political upheaval reshaping the region.
The castle grounds now house a museum that displays regional artifacts and documents local traditions through its collections. You can walk through spaces arranged to show how people lived and worked in this area over time.
The castle site is accessible through multiple entrances, with the main parking area located near the museum, around 15 minutes walk from Aki Station. Wear comfortable shoes for walking the uneven terrain, as exploring the ruins requires time to cover the different sections.
The castle's original wells remain intact, including one that was poisoned during the final siege and played a key role in the fortress's collapse. This well stands as a silent testament to the desperate situation the defenders faced.
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