Complete Guide to the History and Highlights of Kubota Castle | The Satake Clan’s Residence and Senshu Park
Located in the heart of Akita City, Akita Prefecture, Kubota Castle is strongly a hilltop castle built in the early Edo period by the Satake clan, a prestigious family of the Hitachi Genji. Currently, it is a popular park known to citizens as Senshu Park and is the 9th of Japan’s Top 100 Castles. This castle, with its unique defensive structure centered on earthworks and moats rather than stone walls, retains the characteristics of castle architecture in the Tohoku region.
Overview of Kubota Castle
Kubota Castle was built in 1602 (Keicho 7) as the residence of the Satake clan, who were transferred to Dewa Province with a domain of 205,800 koku. It is a hilltop castle built on a hill called Shinmeiyama, and features a structure with multiple enclosures (kuruwa).
Basic Information
- Location: Senshu Park, Akita City, Akita Prefecture (formerly Kubota, Akita District, Dewa Province)
- Year of Construction: Construction began in Keicho 8 (1603), completed in Keicho 9 (1604)
- Builder: Satake Yoshinobu (First Lord of Kubota Domain)
- Castle Structure: Hilltop Castle
- Designation: Akita City Designated Scenic Spot “Senshu Park (Kubota Castle Ruins)”, 9th of Japan’s Top 100 Castles
- Existing Remains: Earthworks, Moats
- Restored Structures: Corner Turret (restored in 1989), Main Gate (restored in 2001)
The name Kubota Castle was originally written as “Kubota Castle” (Kureta Castle) but was renamed “Kubota Castle” (Kubota Castle) between 1633 and 1645. For approximately 260 years until the Meiji Restoration, it served as the residence of 12 generations of the Satake clan and was the center of the Akita Domain’s administration.
Historical Background of Kubota Castle’s Construction
Satake Clan’s Relocation and Entry into Akita
The Satake clan was a branch of the Seiwa Genji clan and wielded considerable power during the Sengoku period, based in Hitachi Province (present-day Ibaraki Prefecture). However, during the Battle of Sekigahara (1600), Satake Yoshinobu failed to take a clear stance, incurring the wrath of Tokugawa Ieyasu and being ordered to relocate to Akita in Dewa Province in 1602. The domain’s rice yield was also Drastic reduction from 540,000 koku to 205,800 koku.
Upon entering Akita, Satake Yoshinobu inspected Minato Castle (Tsuchizaki Minato), which had previously served as the Akita clan’s residence. He determined that its proximity to the sea posed defensive problems. He decided to build a new castle and selected the hilly area of Shinmeiyama.
Construction History and Period
Construction of Kubota Castle began in May of Keicho 8 (1603). In August of the following year, Keicho 9 (1604), Satake Yoshinobu entered Kubota Castle, and Minato Castle, the former residence of the Akita clan, was abandoned. However, at the time of his entry, only the main keep and other key parts of the castle were completed; it is said that the overall development, including the castle town, took approximately 30 years.
Due to financial constraints, the use of stone walls was minimized, and a defensive structure centered on earthworks and moats was adopted. Furthermore, a castle tower was never constructed from the beginning. This is believed to be due not only to economic reasons but also to political considerations, such as deference to the Tokugawa Shoginate.
Structure and Characteristics of Kubota Castle
Unique Defensive Structure Without Stone Walls
The most distinctive feature of Kubota Castle is its almost complete absence of stone walls. This is extremely unusual for a castle built after the Battle of Sekigahara; the defenses relied primarily on earthen ramparts and moats. This architectural style is common in castles in the Kanto and Tohoku regions, and Kubota Castle is a prime example.
The castle grounds were surrounded by a unique type of earthen rampart called a “hachimaki-dorii” (headband rampart). A hachimaki-dorii is a construction method where a massive earthen wall (earthen rampart) is built on top of several layers of stone foundations. These ramparts reached several meters in height and had a complex, intricate structure, forming a defensive system resembling a maze of earth.
A Castle Without a Castle Tower
Kubota Castle never had a castle tower built from the beginning. Instead, the main enclosure (Honmaru) had a two-story Odashi Shoin (reception hall), which functioned as the lord’s residence. The following are some theories as to why a castle tower (tenshu) was not built:
- Financial constraints: Due to a reduction in rice yield resulting from the relocation of the domain, there was insufficient funding for castle tower construction.
- Consideration for the shogunate: To avoid deference or suspicion towards the Tokugawa shogunate.
- Prioritizing practicality: It was judged that placing multiple turrets was more effective for defense than placing a castle tower.
Castle layout and composition
Kubota Castle was a flatland castle utilizing the hilly terrain of Mt. Shinmei, and consisted of multiple enclosures, including the second and third baileys, centered around the main enclosure (Honmaru).
Honmaru: The central part of the castle, where the lord’s residence (Odashi Shoin) and buildings with administrative functions were located. Eight corner turrets were positioned around the Honmaru to strengthen its defenses.
Ninomaru: Located north of the Honmaru (main enclosure), this area housed the residences of senior retainers.
Sannomaru: This was the outer perimeter of the castle, where the residences of retainers and the domain’s facilities were located.
The entire castle was surrounded by an inner and outer moat, with a complex network of earthworks and moats designed to deter intruders. The current topography of Senshu Park still retains traces of the original terrain.
History of Kubota Castle
Kubota Castle in the Edo Period
Kubota Castle functioned as the residence of the Satake clan throughout the Edo period. From the first lord, Satake Yoshinobu, to the twelve lord, Yoshitaka, it flourished for approximately 260 years as the center of the administration of the Akita Domain, which had a Stipend of over 200,000 koku.
In 1666 (Kanbun 6), a great fire destroyed many of the castle’s buildings, but it was later rebuilt. Furthermore, a fire broke out in 1805 (Bunka 2), destroying the main palace. Thus, Kubota Castle, primarily constructed of wood, suffered damage from fires several times.
Meiji Restoration and Abandonment of the Castle
During the Boshin War of 1868 (Meiji 1), the Kubota Domain sided with the new government. After the Meiji Restoration, with the abolition of the feudal domains and establishment of prefectures, the Kubota Domain became part of Akita Prefecture, and Kubota Castle was abandoned in 1871 (Meiji 4).
In 1880 (Meiji 13), the castle site was transferred to Akita Prefecture and it was decided to develop it as a park. In 1896 (Meiji 29), it was opened to the public as “Senshu Park,” becoming a place of relaxation for citizens. The name “Senshu” combines “Aki” (Autumn), meaning autumn in Akita, with the meaning of “longevity.”
Development during the Showa and Heisei Eras
In 1983 (Showa 58), Senshu Park, including the ruins of Kubota Castle, was designated a scenic spot by Akita City. In 1989 (Heisei 1), to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the city’s founding, the Osumi-yagura (corner turret), located in the northwest corner of the main keep, was restored. This turret served as both a lookout post and an armory.
Furthermore, in 2001 (Heisei 13), the Omote-mon (main gate), which was the main entrance to the main keep, was restored. These restorations allow visitors to imagine the former appearance of Kubota Castle.
In 2006 (Heisei 18), it was selected as the 9th of the “100 Famous Castles of Japan” by the Japan Castle Association, making it a nationally recognized historical site.
Highlights of Kubota Castle
Restored Corner Turret
The Corner Turret, located within Senshu Park, is a symbolic structure of Kubota Castle, restored in 1989. It recreates the turret that stood in the northwest corner of the main keep. The interior houses an exhibition room where visitors can view materials related to Kubota Castle and the Satake clan.
From the turret, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Akita city, experiencing the scenery that the former lord of the castle might have seen. Especially during cherry blossom season, the entire Senshu Park is covered in cherry blossoms, creating a beautiful contrast between the turret and the blossoms.
Restored Main Gate
The main gate, the front entrance to the main keep, was restored in 2001. The gate’s structure is in the Korean-style, faithfully reproducing the techniques of the time. Passing through the main gate leads to the site of the main keep, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of the castle in its heyday.
Remains of Earthworks and Moats
Within Senshu Park, the remains of earthworks and moats from the Kubota Castle era still exist. The earthworks around the main keep, in particular, are quite high, allowing visitors to appreciate the castle’s defensive structure that did not utilize stone walls. As you stroll through the park, you’ll notice that the complex, winding terrain is a remnant of the original defensive system.
Akita City Satake Historical Museum
Senshu Park houses the Akita City Satake Historical Museum, which displays valuable materials related to the history of the Satake clan and the Akita Domain. It’s a must-see for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of Kubota Castle. You can see items related to the Satake clan, such as armor, swords, and ancient documents.
The Four Seasons of Senshu Park
Senshu Park, the site of Kubota Castle, is known for its beauty throughout the four seasons.
Spring: Approximately 700 cherry trees bloom, and the park has been selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots.” The cherry blossoms are illuminated at night, attracting many visitors.
Summer: The fresh greenery is beautiful, and you can enjoy the cool shade of the trees. There is also a pond where lotus flowers bloom.
Autumn: The autumn leaves are beautiful, and the maple trees around the main keep are particularly magnificent.
Winter: The snow-enveloped castle ruins are in a tranquil atmosphere, offering a unique winter charm.
Development of Kubota Castle Town
Along with the construction of Kubota Castle, the castle town was also developed. Samurai residences were arranged around the castle, and merchant and artisan districts were formed. Kubota Castle Town formed the foundation of the current Akita City center, and some of the town layout still remains today.
The Ushu Kaido (Oshu Kaido) passed through the castle town, and it developed as a transportation hub. Furthermore, the distribution of goods using the Omono River waterway flourished, and it prospered as the economic center of the Akita Domain.
A characteristic of the castle town was the large number of retainers and craftsmen brought by the Satake clan from Hitachi Province, resulting in the introduction of Hitachi culture to Akita. This led to the formation of a unique culture in the Kubota town.
History of the Satake Clan and the Kubota Domain
Origin of the Satake Clan
The Satake clan was a prestigious samurai family descended from the Seiwa Genji. It is believed that the family originated when Masayoshi, grandson of Minamoto no Yoshimitsu (Shinra Saburo Yoshimitsu), settled in Satake-go, Kuji-gun, Hitachi Province (present-day Hitachiota City, Ibaraki Prefecture), and adopted the name Satake.
During the Sengoku period, the Satake clan, under the rule of father and son Satake Yoshishige and Yoshinobu, almost unified Hitachi Province and became a powerful daimyo with a domain of 540,000 koku. They participated in Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Odawara campaign and the pacification of Oshu, and enjoyed Hideyoshi’s deep trust.
The Battle of Sekigahara and the Domain Transfer
During the Battle of Sekigahara (1600), Satake Yoshinobu adopted a neutral stance, neither clearly siding with the Western nor Eastern army. This ambiguous attitude began the displeasure of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and after the war, he received harsh punishment: a domain transfer to Akita in Dewa Province and a reduction in his rice yield.
The move from Hitachi Province to Akita was a large-scale Leaving familiar land was a great hardship, but the Satake clan involving established a new domain administration in Akita.
Domain Administration of the Akita Domain
The Kubota Domain (Akita Domain) had an official rice yield of 205,800 koku, but it is believed to have actually had a production capacity of approximately 400,000 koku. The central issues of domain administration were financial stability and development within the territory.
The Satake clan focused on developing new fields, mining (such as the Ani Copper Mine), and promoting forestry, strengthening the domain’s economic base.Moreover, they also focused on education, establishing the domain school “Meitokukan” to cultivate talent.
During the late Edo period, they sided with the new government in the Boshin War and did not participate in the Ouetsu Reppan Alliance. This decision allowed the Satake clan to continue as a noble family even after the Meiji Restoration.
Access and Tourist Information for Kubota Castle
Access Methods
Train: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Akita Station. You can walk through the city center from the west exit of Akita Station to the entrance of Senshu Park.
Bus: Take a bus from Akita Station and get off at “Senshu Park Entrance.”
Car: Approximately 15 minutes from the Akita Chuo Interchange on the Akita Expressway. Paid parking is available around Senshu Park.
Estimated Time Required for Sightseeing
If you stroll through Senshu Park and visit the Osumi-yagura (corner turret) and the Satake Historical Museum, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours is a good estimate. If you want to learn about the history in detail, you will need more time. ### Nearby Tourist Attractions
- Akita City Red Brick Museum: Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Senshu Park. A local history museum housed in the former Akita Bank building headquarters.
- Akita Prefectural Museum of Art: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Senshu Park. Houses numerous works by Tsuguharu Fujita.
- Akita Citizens’ Market: Near Akita Station. A market offering fresh seafood and local produce.
Cultural Value of Kubota Castle
Kubota Castle is a valuable historical site that preserves the characteristics of early Edo period castle architecture. In particular, its defensive structure, which largely avoids stone walls and focuses on earthworks and moats, is a typical example of castles in the Kanto and Tohoku regions and occupies an important position in castle history research.
Furthermore, the history of the Satake clan, a prestigious family of the Hitachi Minamoto clan, overcoming the difficulties of relocation and establishing themselves in Akita, maintaining their domain’s rule for approximately 260 years, is important for understanding early modern Japanese history.
Even now, as Senshu Park, it remains a beloved place of relaxation for citizens, and its preservation and transmission of historical heritage is highly valued culturally.
Summary
Kubota Castle was the residence of the Akita Domain, built by Satake Yoshinobu in strongly the early Edo period. It is a flatland castle with a unique defensive structure centered on earthworks and moats, rather than stone walls. It is also known as a castle without a keep, and retains the characteristics of castle architecture in the Kanto and Tohoku regions.
Currently, it is maintained as Senshu Park, where visitors can imagine its former appearance through the restored corner turret, main gate, and remaining earthworks and moats. It is counted as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Castles and is popular with many tourists and citizens alike, enjoying its beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
When you visit Akita City, be sure to visit Senshu Park, the site of Kubota Castle, and experience the history of the Satake clan and the castle culture of Tohoku.
