Saturday I took the train to Mishima, then caught the bus to the Yamanaka bus stop (¥810). This bus also goes to the Mishima Skywalk and some other tourist sites, so it was full of people. Maybe it is less crowded on a week day.
This information is from the JCastle website:
This castle was founded by Hojo Ujiyasu to protect the main Hojo stronghold at Odawara. It was part of a string of fortifications that inlcuded Nirayama Castle and Ashigara Castle. As relations between Hojo and Toyotomi Hideyoshi worsened, Hojo Ujimasa began to strengthen the fortifications of Yamanaka Castle around 1587. At this time, the Daisaki Demaru Bailey was constructed to overlook the road leading to Odawara. In 1590 before Hojo had completed the new fortifications, Hideyoshi launched the full force of nearly 70,000 troops against the meager 4,000 defenders of Yamanaka Castle. It is said that the castle fell in less than a half day and in only 2 hours by some accounts. This was the first assault by Hideyoshi on Odawara in his campaign to overthrew the Hojo.
Saturday was a beautiful day! Perfect for walking back in time.
The castle grounds are on both sides of the road, so these signs with the red mark to show location are very helpful.
Former site of the Imperial horse racing grounds
The views are gorgeous.
The middle says Yamanaka. I don't know what the rest says.
This sign points to the rest area.
Remains of the Suribachi enclosure
Mt. Fuji again.
Remains of the Warrior Camp
3 comments:
What a glorious day and an interesting place. Did you climb down into one of the 'waffle moats'?
As for the text on the stone pillar, above Yamanama it says 'shiseki' (history) and below 'jo ato' (castle remains/ruins). You see the same text on a wooden pillar in one of your photographs.
I really appreciate that you add a plot of photos of signboards and maps. It makes it so much easier for your readers to plan a trip .
Hello Pamela: What amazing photos, so beautiful.
It looks like a very quiet and serene place to visit.
Catherine
Looks like there is not a lot left of the old castle, but the grounds are gorgeous!
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