Arashiyama Castle Complete Guide: The History and Highlights of the Sengoku Period Mountain Castle Overlooking Togetsukyo Bridge
Arashiyama, a representative tourist destination in Kyoto. Known for Togetsukyo Bridge and the bamboo grove, did you know that a full-fledged mountain castle built during the Sengoku period (Warring States period) about 500 years ago once existed in this area? Arashiyama Castle (Saga Castle) is a historical fortress that served as the stage for power struggles within the Muromachi Shogunate, and it remains a valuable historical site with clearly visible remains on the mountaintop.
This article comprehensively explains the detailed history of Arashiyama Castle, its structure, climbing routes, and the remains that can be seen on-site, providing useful information for both castle enthusiasts and tourists.
What is Arashiyama Castle?: Basic Information and Overview
Arashiyama Castle is a Sengoku period mountain castle located on the summit of Arashiyama Mountain (approximately 381.5m above sea level) in Arashiyama Genrokuyama-cho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. Also known as “Saga Castle,” it belonged to Kadono District, Yamashiro Province.
Basic Castle Data
- Location: Arashiyama Genrokuyama-cho, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Castle Classification: Mountain Castle (Ren-kuruwa style)
- Year of Construction: Around Meio 6 (1497)
- Builder: Kozai Motonaga
- Year of Abandonment: Around Eisho 4 (1507)
- Elevation: Approximately 381.5m
- Relative Height: Approximately 280m (relative height from the Katsura River)
- Remains: Enclosures, moats, vertical moats, earthworks, stone walls, etc.
Arashiyama Castle was built on the summit of Arashiyama, facing north towards the Katsura River, and is known as one of the largest castles in the Rakusai region. Currently, it is protected as a cultural property of Kyoto Prefecture, and the Kyoto Prefectural Board of Education is also conducting research on it.
History of Arashiyama Castle: Power Struggle in the Muromachi Shogunate and Kozai Motonaga
Background of the Castle’s Construction and Kyoto After the Onin War
The late 15th century, when Arashiyama Castle was built, was a period of turmoil following the Onin War (1467-1477). The authority of the Muromachi Shogunate had declined, and power struggles among powerful daimyo, centered around the Kanrei (deputy shogun) Hosokawa clan, intensified.
Around 1497 (Meio 6), Kozai Motonaga, who was the shugodai (deputy governor) of Yamashiro Province, built Arashiyama Castle. The Kozai clan were local lords based in Sanuki Province (present-day Kagawa Prefecture), but Motonaga served as a powerful retainer of Kanrei Hosokawa Masamoto, acting as shugodai for the five southern districts of Yamashiro Province.
The Assassination of Hosokawa Masamoto by Kozai Motonaga
An essential event in the history of Arashiyama Castle is the assassination of Hosokawa Masamoto in 1507 (Eisho 4).
Hosokawa Masamoto wielded considerable power in the Muromachi Shogunate, even being called a “half-shogun,” but his retainers were divided over the issue of succession. Masamoto had no biological children, and had adopted three sons: Hosokawa Sumiyuki, Hosokawa Sumimoto, and Hosokawa Takakuni. The conflict between these three was becoming increasingly serious.
On June 23, 1507 (Eisho 4), Kozai Motonaga and Yakushiji Nagatada attacked and successfully assassinated Hosokawa Masamoto in the bathhouse. Motonaga and his allies attempted to seize power by supporting Hosokawa Sumiyuki, but just a few days later, on June 26, they were defeated by the Hosokawa Takakuni and Hosokawa Sumimoto faction in the Battle of Momobashi. Kozai Motonaga was killed in battle, and Hosokawa Sumiyuki was also murdered.
It is believed that this incident led to the abandonment of Arashiyama Castle, just about 10 years after its construction.
Possibility of Reuse by Hosokawa Harumoto
Although Arashiyama Castle was once abandoned, it has been suggested that it may have been used by the Hosokawa clan afterward.
According to historical records, there are records indicating that Hosokawa Harumoto (son of Hosokawa Sumimoto) resided at Arashiyama Castle. Harumoto was active in the Kinai region during the Tenbun era (1532-1555), and it is thought that he temporarily used Arashiyama Castle as a base for military operations around Kyoto.
However, it is considered highly likely that it was used not as a permanent castle, but as a temporary encampment or refuge.
Structure of Arashiyama Castle: Typical Characteristics of a Sengoku Period Mountain Castle
Arashiyama Castle is a typical Sengoku period mountain castle with a multi-bailey layout. Multiple baileys are arranged along the ridge, centered on the summit of Mount Arashiyama.
Main Enclosure Layout
Arashiyama Castle employs a linear enclosure structure, with multiple enclosures arranged in a continuous pattern along the east-west ridges, centered around the main enclosure at the mountaintop. From the main enclosure, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the Katsura River and the Togetsukyo Bridge, making it an excellent location for monitoring the western part of the Kyoto Basin.
More than 10 enclosures have been identified, making it one of the largest in the Rakusai region. Each enclosure is relatively flat, making it suitable for buildings and troop garrisons.
Defensive Structures: Moats, Vertical Moats, and Earthworks
Arashiyama Castle’s defensive structures utilize typical and advanced techniques for a mountain castle.
Moats are constructed to cut across the ridges, serving as a crucial defensive line to prevent enemy incursions. The moats around the main enclosure are particularly deep and can still be clearly seen as remains.
Vertical moats are moats dug vertically along the slopes, effectively restricting enemy lateral movement. At Arashiyama Castle, multiple vertical moats have been identified, demonstrating ingenious methods of slope defense.
Earthworks are earthen walls built along the edges of the enclosures, serving to enhance defense and conceal the interior of the enclosures.
Presence of Stone Walls
Traces of stone walls have been confirmed in some areas of Arashiyama Castle. This suggests that stone wall technology may have been introduced relatively early for a mountain castle of the late 15th century, providing important evidence of the Kozai clan’s relationship with Sanuki and the technical capabilities of the Hosokawa clan.
However, due to later alterations and collapses, the extent to which the original stone walls remain is unclear, and further research is needed.
Access and Ascent Routes
Access to the Castle Entrance
The most common routes to Arashiyama Castle are from Hankyu Arashiyama Station or Arashiyama Park.
Access from Hankyu Arashiyama Station:
- Get off at Hankyu Arashiyama Line “Arashiyama Station,” approximately 5 minutes on foot to the castle entrance.
- Coin parking available near the station (no dedicated parking lot).
Access from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station:
- Get off at JR Sagano Line “Saga-Arashiyama Station,” approximately 15 minutes on foot to the castle entrance.
- Route via Togetsukyo Bridge
There are multiple entrances to the castle, but the most common is the route from the Nakanoshima area of Arashiyama Park to the summit. While there are some signs, the trail is not fully maintained in some sections, so appropriate hiking equipment such as trekking shoes is recommended.
Castle Ascent Routes and Estimated Time
The following are some routes to climb Arashiyama Castle:
Standard Route (from Arashiyama Park):
- From the entrance to the summit: Approximately 40-60 minutes
- Elevation difference: Approximately 280m
- Difficulty: Intermediate (steep slopes included)
The hiking trail has several forks, dividing into a route leading to the main enclosure and a route exploring the surrounding enclosures. While there are signposts in some places, carrying a map or GPS app is recommended.
From the summit, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Togetsukyo Bridge, the Katsura River, and Kyoto city, making the effort of the climb well worth it.
Precautions when climbing the castle
- Season: Spring and autumn are the most comfortable times to climb. In summer, take precautions against the heat; in winter, pay attention to sunset times.
- Equipment: Trekking shoes, drinking water, map and GPS are essential.
- Safety: Climbing in groups is recommended over solo climbing.
- Time: Expect 2-3 hours round trip.
- Trail Maintenance: Some sections of the trail are unclear.
Arashiyama Castle is not a tourist-oriented castle ruin; it maintains its natural state as a mountain castle, requiring different preparations than typical sightseeing.
Highlights of Arashiyama Castle: Existing Remains
Main Enclosure (Honmaru) Site
Located at the summit of Arashiyama, the main enclosure is the most important enclosure as the central part of the castle. A relatively large, flat area is secured, and it is thought that the lord’s residence and command post were located here.
From the main enclosure, a 360-degree panoramic view unfolds, overlooking the Katsura River, Togetsukyo Bridge, Kyoto city, and even Mount Hiei in the distance. This location explains why Arashiyama Castle was chosen as a watchtower for western Kyoto.
Moats and Vertical Moats
The most clearly identifiable remains at Arashiyama Castle are the moats. Moats several meters deep remain around the main enclosure, completely cutting off the ridge.
Vertical moats can also be found in multiple locations, clearly showing the defensive lines dug down the slope. These remains are valuable evidence of castle construction techniques from over 500 years ago.
Enclosures
Several enclosures are arranged in a series along the east-west ridge, centered around the main enclosure. Each enclosure has been leveled, ensuring a relatively flat surface.
Differences in elevation between enclosures and traces of earthworks separating them can also be observed, providing clues to understanding the overall structure of the castle.
Earthworks and Stone Masonry
Traces of earthworks remain along the edges of the enclosures, confirming their function as defensive structures. Furthermore, traces of stonework can be seen in some areas, making it an important remains that demonstrates the introduction of stonework techniques to mountain castles at the end of the 15th century.
However, the stonework has deteriorated through collapse and burial, and only a limited portion remains in a clearly defined form.
Related Historical Sites in the Surrounding Area
Minegadō Castle
Minegadō Castle is known as a surrounding castle of Arashiyama Castle. It is thought to have functioned as a subsidiary castle or a related castle of Arashiyama Castle, and is considered to have formed part of Arashiyama Castle’s defensive system.
Togetsukyo Bridge and Arashiyama Tourist Attractions
At the foot of Arashiyama Castle lies a wealth of Kyoto’s representative tourist attractions. By visiting many tourist spots such as Togetsukyo Bridge, the Bamboo Grove, and Tenryūji Temple in combination, you can comprehensively enjoy the history and nature of Arashiyama.
A plan to enjoy Arashiyama sightseeing before and after visiting the castle ruins is recommended for both history buffs and general tourists.
Historical Significance of Arashiyama Castle
Stage of Power Struggle in the Muromachi Shogunate
Arashiyama Castle is a castle that symbolizes the power struggle at the end of the Muromachi Shogunate. As the residence of Kozai Motonaga, who was directly involved in the historically significant assassination of Hosokawa Masamoto, it occupies an important position in Japanese history.
This incident is considered one of the turning points that accelerated the decline of the Muromachi Shogunate and the transition to the Sengoku period, and Arashiyama Castle was the historical stage for this event.
Pinnacle of Mountain Castle Construction Technology
Arashiyama Castle holds significant value in castle research as a surviving structure that demonstrates the pinnacle of mountain castle construction technology at the end of the 15th century. It possesses typical characteristics of Sengoku period mountain castles, such as a multi-bailey layout, multiple layers of defense using moats and vertical trenches, and the introduction of stone masonry.
As one of the largest mountain castles in the Rakusai region, it is also evidence of the high level of technological capability and manpower at the time.
Kyoto’s Hidden Historical Heritage
Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s leading tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually. However, few people know that a full-fledged Sengoku period mountain castle exists on its summit. Arashiyama Castle offers a new appeal to Arashiyama as a “hidden heritage” that reveals the historical depths of Kyoto hidden behind the tourist attractions.
Preservation of Arashiyama Castle and Future Challenges
Protection as a Cultural Property
The Arashiyama Castle ruins are recognized as a cultural property of Kyoto Prefecture, and the Kyoto Prefectural Board of Education conducts surveys and records. However, it has not received higher designations such as a national historic site, and the protection system is not entirely adequate.
Challenges of Development and Public Access
Currently, Arashiyama Castle has not undergone full-scale development, and guidance on the hiking trails is limited. Balancing the preservation of the remains with public access remains a challenge for the future.
On the other hand, avoiding excessive commercialization and preserving the original form of the mountain castle is also important, requiring careful consideration.
Progress in Research
Many aspects of Arashiyama Castle remain unexplained. Further archaeological investigations are expected to reveal details about its construction date, its actual use by Hosokawa Harumoto, and the age of its stonework.
Recommendation to Visit Arashiyama Castle
Arashiyama Castle is a fascinating historical site that offers a new perspective on Kyoto tourism. In contrast to the developed tourist area of Arashiyama, the castle ruins on the mountaintop are quiet and retain a strong atmosphere of the Sengoku period (Warring States period).
Recommended Visiting Plan
- Morning Ascent: Climb the castle during the cooler hours and rest at the summit.
- Exploring the Remains: Carefully observe the remains such as the main enclosure, moats, and vertical trenches.
- Enjoying the View: Enjoy the spectacular views of Togetsukyo Bridge and Kyoto city.
- Arashiyama Sightseeing After Descending: Stroll through the bamboo grove, visit Tenryu-ji Temple, and more.
- Arashiyama Gourmet: Finish off with Yudofu (boiled tofu) and Japanese sweets.
Message to Castle Fans
Arashiyama Castle may not be widely known, but its remains are well-preserved, making it an ideal castle site for learning about the structure of a Sengoku period mountain castle. Defensive facilities such as moats and vertical trenches remain clearly visible, and the overall layout of the multi-enclosure castle is easily understood.
Its convenient location in Kyoto is also a major attraction, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing. It’s a hidden gem that castle fans should visit at least once. ## Summary: Rediscovering the Charm of Arashiyama Castle
Arashiyama Castle is a full-fledged mountain castle from the Sengoku period, built on the summit of Arashiyama in Kyoto. It is an important historical site, having been the stage for a major historical event: the power struggle within the Muromachi Shogunate. Built by Kozai Motonaga around 1497 (Meio 6), it had a short history of about 10 years before being abandoned after the assassination of Hosokawa Masamoto, but it still retains clear remains.
The castle’s layout, defensive structures such as moats and trenches, and the spectacular view from the summit are well worth the effort of climbing. As a new attraction in the tourist area of Arashiyama, and as a place to experience the history of the Sengoku period, Arashiyama Castle is a hidden gem that many people should visit.
On your next trip to Kyoto, don’t just admire the Togetsukyo Bridge, but also climb to the summit of Arashiyama that rises behind it. There, 500 years of history quietly, yet surely, breathes within.
