Panduan
Kaminokuni Katsuyamakan is a medieval Japanese mountain castle site located in Kaminokuni Town, Hiyama Subprefecture, Hokkaido. It was designated as a National Historic Site in 1977 and was selected as one of the 'Continued 100 Best Japanese Castles' in 2017. The site features a large-scale structure utilizing the slopes of Mount Iou, spanning an area of approximately 20.9 hectares. Historically, this location served as a vital stronghold, once acting as the base for the Kaki clan or as a significant secondary castle.
While the exact date of construction is not definitively known, it is estimated to have been built in the late 15th century, as the founding of the nearby Kaminokuni Hachiman Shrine is traditionally dated to 1473. The site was once the primary seat of the Kaki clan, but after the clan moved their base to Matsumae in the early 16th century, the site became known as 'Waki no Tate' and functioned as a secondary castle for the family. Post-war archaeological excavations have yielded a massive collection of approximately 70,000 artifacts, including ceramics, metalware, lacquerware, and bone tools from the late 15th to 16th centuries. Notably, 921 of these items have been designated as National Important Cultural Properties.
The most striking feature is the vast number of excavated artifacts that reveal the lifestyle and defensive strategies of the medieval era. The ceramics and metalware serve as precious evidence of the cultural standards of that time. Additionally, the topography of Mount Iou and the ancient Japanese burial mounds (Iouzan Tumuli) extending toward the summit form a significant part of the historical landscape. The way the castle ruins utilize the natural terrain provides a fascinating look into medieval fortification techniques.
You can explore the historical remains throughout the seasons. Walking through the castle ruins amidst the lush natural scenery of Mount Iou offers a unique experience. The landscape changes beautifully with the seasons, though visitors should be mindful of the terrain, as the site is a mountain castle and paths can be uneven depending on the weather.
Visitors can engage in an intellectual journey through Japanese castle culture and medieval history. By observing the layout of the fortifications and the excavated artifacts, one can visualize the daily lives and defensive systems of the past. Walking through this historical landscape allows you to imagine the grandeur of the original fortress.
Kaminokuni Town is dotted with other historical sites and landmarks that tell the story of the region. This site can be a key part of a larger cultural and historical tour through the natural beauty of the area.