Kōyama Castle
Koyama Castle is a fortified site on a hilltop in Yoshida, Shizuoka Prefecture. The main keep, reconstructed in 1987, stands three stories tall with five interior levels and provides views of the surrounding landscape. Original stone walls, trenches, and foundations remain visible, demonstrating the defensive layout and construction methods of the original fortress.
The castle was built in the late 1500s and initially served as a fort for the Imagawa clan. Takeda Shingen later gained control of the region, and Baba Harunobu rebuilt the castle in 1571. After 1582, Tokugawa Ieyasu's forces took possession, establishing control over a key point on regional trade routes.
Koyama Castle served as a strategic center for controlling the surrounding region. The site remains a focal point for local community events and celebrations that honor its historical significance. These gatherings help maintain connection to the area's past through traditional demonstrations and local participation.
The grounds are easy to walk around, with paths leading through the site and around the old structures. Most of the visit can be completed at a leisurely pace, making it suitable for visitors of various ages and fitness levels. Wear good shoes since the terrain is uneven in places around the ruins and foundation areas.
The castle features a distinctive umadashi gate structure, a unique defensive entrance design specific to Japanese fortifications. This rare architectural element reveals thoughtful craftsmanship and security planning that often goes unnoticed by casual visitors exploring the grounds.
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