Kawahara Castle, Mountain fortress in Kawahara, Japan.
Kawahara is a mountain fortress in Tottori built across several terraces on a wooded hillside. The site includes reconstructed wooden watchtowers, walled courtyards, and stone ramparts that follow the natural contours of the slope.
The fortress was built in 1580 on the orders of Toyotomi Hideyoshi to secure his control over the Inaba region. After the war ended, it fell into disuse and was partially rebuilt in the late 20th century.
The name Kawahara translates to river plain, reflecting the fortress position above a valley. Visitors today follow the same paths and steps once used by soldiers and messengers moving between defensive levels.
Access involves narrow mountain paths that can become slippery on rainy days. Sturdy footwear makes the climb easier and helps navigate the older steps between levels more safely.
In February and March, over 800 plum trees transform the grounds into a sea of white and pink blossoms. The contrast between dark wooden towers and pale blooms draws photographers from across the region.
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