Guide
The Kaneda Castle Ruins, located in Kurose, Mitsushima Town, Tsushima City, Nagasaki Prefecture, is an ancient mountain castle designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan. Built around the mid-7th century, this fortress is a representative example of a "Korean-style mountain castle" (Choson-shiki yamajiro), which served as a frontline defense against the Korean Peninsula. The castle was skillfully constructed using the steep natural terrain of Mt. Joyama, preserving the ancient defensive structure alongside the surrounding landscape. A standout feature is the prominence of its stone walls (sekirui), which distinguishes it from many other ancient mountain castles.
The history of Kaneda Castle dates back to the 6th year of Emperor Tenji (667 AD) during the Asuka period. Following the defeat at the Battle of Baekgang, this site became a crucial stronghold to strengthen the defense against the Korean Peninsula. The castle's name even appears in the "Nihon Shoki" (Chronicles of Japan), making it an invaluable historical resource that illustrates the deployment of the "Sakimori" (border guards) and the defensive realities of that era. Records show that forest cutting on Mt. Joyama was prohibited during the medieval period, and references to coastal defense by the Tsushima Clan appear in the early modern era. Although parts were damaged during the construction of the Mt. Joyama Battery by the Meiji government, the precious remains are still well-preserved today.
The greatest draw of Kaneda Castle is its stone walls, which stretch approximately 2.8 kilometers in total length. While many ancient mountain castles rely on earthen embankments, Kaneda Castle features sophisticated stone walls across almost all sections. The height of these walls varies from 2 to 6 meters depending on the terrain. Other notable features include the ruins of castle gates (such as the Nino-jo gate) and the "chi"—protruding structures designed to enhance defensive capabilities. The strategic importance of this location is further highlighted by the fact that the summit of Mt. Joyama (276m) offers a view toward the Korean Peninsula.
The Kaneda Castle Ruins are open at all times, making it accessible regardless of the season. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant due to the mild weather and beautiful scenery, making hiking more comfortable. In summer, please be prepared for direct sunlight and bring plenty of water, as there is little shade. For the best experience, visit on a clear, sunny day to enjoy the magnificent view of the Korean Peninsula from the summit.
The primary activity here is trekking through the historical ruins. The hiking paths, which utilize former military roads from the Meiji era, allow you to walk the path of ancient defenders while observing the stone walls and gate ruins. Hiking through this lush, natural environment offers a stimulating intellectual experience as you feel the breath of history.
Near the ruins, you can find the "Mt. Joyama Battery" and "Mt. Joyama Subsidiary Fortifications," which are modern defense facilities built between 1900 and 1901. These sites showcase a different era of military technology compared to the ancient Kaneda Castle. For a deeper understanding of local history, we also recommend visiting the "Nagasaki Prefectural Tsushima History and Folklore Museum" in Izuhara Town.
Preparation is essential for a successful visit to the Kaneda Castle Ruins.