Nagoya Castle, Japanese castle ruins in Karatsu, Japan
Description
The remains occupy several hilltops on the Hatonosaki Peninsula in Saga Prefecture, showing stone walls, foundations, and traces of moats. The complex covers around 17 hectares and features multiple levels connected by stairways and pathways between the rises.
History
The fortification was built in 1591 under orders from Toyotomi Hideyoshi as a launching point for the planned invasion of Korea, with construction finished in a matter of months. After the campaign failed, the fortress fell into disuse, and in 1638 authorities ordered the dismantling of the five-story main tower.
Culture
The Japanese name translates literally to a forward staging camp, pointing to its function as a place to gather troops and supplies for overseas campaigns. Within the compound walls, builders organized separate residential quarters for generals, allowing each commander to lodge with his own retinue inside the fortified hillsides.
Practical
Walking through the hilltop complex involves climbing several levels and requires a bit of stamina on the stairways. A museum displaying excavation finds is open daily and free of charge for visitors.
Did you know?
Archaeologists uncovered ceramic fragments from Korea and China during excavations, indicating active trade during the construction period. The pine forest planted on the hillsides in the 17th century served to hide the ruins from view and discourage any military reuse.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Karatsu).
Karatsu Castle
13.2 km
Karatsu Kunchi
13.1 km
Nabatake Site
12.3 km
Hōtō-jinja
12.7 km
Mount Kagami
18.2 km増田神社
12.5 km
Karatsu Shrine
12.7 km
Kagami Shrine
16.9 kmMikaeri Falls
24 km芥屋の大門
23.3 km
Saga Prefectural Nagoya Castle Museum
307 m
鷹島肥前大橋
12.7 km
Yobuko Bridge
1.8 km
Takashima Kōzaki Site
14.6 km
Former Karatsu Bank Head Office
13.1 km
Suwa-jinja, Karatsu, Saga
18.2 km
Imari Bay Bridge
25.5 km
Mount Tonbo
19.5 km
Torishima
12.3 km
Iō-ji
21.7 km
Hamanoura Rice Terrace
5 km
Matsuura City Archaeological Center
14.4 km
Yobuko Daibutsu
3.3 km
Udono Sekibutsu-gun
23.8 km
Kawamura Art Museum
12.8 km
Nanatsugama
6.1 km
Matsurokan
12.3 km
Nijinomatsubara
17.5 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes