Einōsan Castle, Korean-style fortress in Saijō, Japan
Einōsan Castle is a fortified site in Saijō, Japan, whose ruins spread across a large area and are surrounded by substantial stone walls. The remains show a complex network of defensive structures from ancient times.
The site was built in the 7th century following a military defeat that prompted the region to strengthen its defenses. This period marked a phase of intense fortification against possible external attacks.
The fortress shows Korean-style building elements that reflect a time when the region needed to defend itself against outside threats. Visitors can see in the ruins how this construction approach differed from other Japanese castles of that era.
The site is easy to reach and sits close to a train station, making it suitable for a day trip. Visitors should allow enough time to explore the extensive ruins across the landscape.
Archaeological digs have uncovered evidence of ancient blacksmithing workshops, showing that this was not just a place of warfare. These findings suggest the settlement had economic and craft significance beyond military purposes.
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