Yashima Castle

Overview

Yashima Castle is an ancient mountain castle built in 667 AD (during the reign of Emperor Tenchi) along with Takayasu Castle and Kinda Castle. Following the defeat at the Battle of Hakusukinoe, the Yamato court constructed various defensive structures along key strategic points from Tsushima to the Kinai region for the defense of Japan. Until the Edo period, Yashima was a separate island. However, salt production and land reclamation projects starting in the Edo period, followed by later landfill, connected it to the mainland. The entire summit of the north-south ridges of Yashima constitutes the castle site. Almost 7 kilometers of the mountain's perimeter is a sheer cliff. A castle wall was constructed along the 4 kilometer cliff break on the southern ridge. From the summit, the surrounding area is clearly visible, highlighting the effective use of mesa topography. A 2009 survey confirmed the castle remains date back to the late 7th century. In 2016, the gate structure was restored and opened to the public. The gate features a suspension bridge structure, an inner bailey (oujo), and a passageway that makes a right angle turn to the north. The gate passage is stepped, and there is a covered drainage system leading from inside the castle to the outside. Yashima Castle is a precious historical site offering a glimpse into the technology and strategies of the time. Combined with the magnificent view of the Seto Inland Sea, it's a place where you can truly feel the weight of history. Be sure to visit!