Guida
Kaminokuni Katsuyama-kan is a medieval Japanese mountain castle site located in Kaminokuni Town, Hiyama District, Hokkaido. It was designated as a National Historic Site in 1977 and was selected as one of the 'Continued 100 Famous Japanese Castles' in 2017. The site features a large-scale structure utilizing the north-south slopes of Mt. Iou, covering a total area of approximately 20.9 hectares. Historically, this location served as a vital stronghold, once thought to be the base of the Kaki clan or a significant secondary castle.
While the exact construction date is not definitively known, the establishment of the nearby 'Tatekami Hachiman-gu Shrine' in 1473 suggests the castle was built around the late 15th century. Originally associated with the Kaki clan, it served as a secondary castle known as 'Waki no Tate' after the clan moved its base to Matsumae in the early 16th century. Post-war archaeological excavations have yielded an extraordinary collection of approximately 70,000 artifacts, including ceramics, metalware, lacquerware, and bone-and-horn tools from the late 15th to 16th centuries. Notably, 921 of these items have been designated as National Important Cultural Properties.
The primary attraction is the vast collection of excavated artifacts that reveal the daily life and defensive-style of the medieval period. These ceramics and metalwares serve as precious records of the era's cultural standards. Additionally, the strategic use of the terrain on the slopes of Mt. Iou and the presence of the Iou-san Tumuli (ancient burial mounds) behind the castle contribute to the profound historical landscape. The way the castle utilizes the natural topography provides a fascinating look into medieval Japanese fortification techniques.
You can explore these historical ruins regardless of the season. Walking through the castle ruins amidst the lush natural scenery of Mt. Iou offers a serene experience. The landscape changes beautifully with the seasons, though visitors should be mindful of the terrain. Since this is a mountain castle site, please be cautious of footing, especially during rainy seasons or changing weather conditions.
Visitors can engage in an intellectual exploration of Japanese castle culture and medieval history. By observing the way the fortifications are integrated into the natural landscape and studying the excavated artifacts, you can gain a deeper understanding of ancient lifestyles and defensive mechanisms. Walking through the historical landscape allows you to visualize the grandeur of the castle as it once stood.
Kaminokuni Town is dotted with other historical remains and sites that tell the story of the region. The Katsuyama-kan site can be integrated into a broader cultural route exploring the rich natural and historical heritage of the area.