Château de Raw Yamashiro, Mountain fortress in Nichinan, Japan
Raw Yamashiro Castle sits on a mountain peak at about 470 meters elevation where two rivers meet in eastern Japan. Stone walls still remain at the main fortification on the summit, showing the scale and age of the structure.
The castle was built during the early Muromachi period and served as a strategic stronghold for several centuries. It was eventually abandoned in 1615 when a new rule required each region to have only one castle.
The surrounding region developed around iron production, with local craftspeople relying on traditional smelting methods that used locally available materials. This craft shaped the daily life of people who lived in the villages below.
The climb to the summit is possible but requires preparation, as hiking trails are not regularly maintained. Visitors should bring proper gear and check conditions before heading up.
Old documents from the 16th century mention that two rival clans had a role in managing the fortress. These records reveal a complex power arrangement that existed behind the castle walls.
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