Uto Castle, Japanese castle ruins in Uto, Japan
Uto Castle stands as the remains of a hilltop fortress marked by stone walls and moats arranged in three concentric levels. The surviving structures demonstrate how the site was strategically positioned, with layered defensive zones that once protected the occupants.
The fortress was founded in 1588 by Konishi Yukinaga as an important military and naval base. Control passed to Kato Kiyomasa following political shifts in the region, marking a transition in leadership during the early modern period.
A bronze statue of Konishi Yukinaga overlooks the grounds, facing the sea and honoring his position as naval commander under Toyotomi rule. The statue's placement on this coastal site reflects how the castle served maritime interests during its time.
The site now operates as a public park and is accessible by bus from JR Uto Station, followed by a short walk to the top. Comfortable footwear is recommended since the grounds are situated on a slope with a parking area nearby for vehicles.
An incomplete dry moat discovered near the ruins in 1999 represented one of the first archaeological findings of its kind in Japan. This discovery helped archaeologists understand more about construction projects left unfinished during that period.
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