Kagomori Castle (Ehime Prefecture) Complete Guide | A Thorough Explanation of the Mountain Castle Ruins of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles
Kagomori Castle is a medieval mountain castle ruin located in Matsuno-cho, Kitauwa-gun, Ehime Prefecture. It is a valuable historical site selected as one of the “Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles” in 2006. Built on the border between Iyo Province (present-day Ehime Prefecture) and Tosa Province (present-day Kochi Prefecture), this mountain castle is an important historical site that conveys the tension and castle-building techniques of the Sengoku period. It was designated a national historic site on September 11, 1997.
This article provides a detailed explanation of everything you need to know before visiting, from the history of Kagomori Castle ruins to its highlights and access methods.
What is Kagomori Castle? | A Strategic Point Protecting the Border Between Iyo and Tosa
Location and Geographical Characteristics
Kagomori Castle ruins are located in the center of Matsuno-cho, the smallest town in Ehime Prefecture. Built on an isolated hill surrounded by three rivers—the Hiromi River, a tributary of the Shimanto River, and its further tributaries, the Horikiri River and Iwashi River—these rivers functioned as natural moats.
The castle grounds cover approximately 21 hectares, with an elevation of about 172 meters at its highest point, and a relative height difference of about 88 meters from the surrounding plains. This scale makes it one of the largest medieval mountain castles in Ehime Prefecture.
Unique Horseshoe (U-shaped) Layout
The most distinctive feature of Kawagomori Castle lies in its unique layout. The main enclosures—the West Tenth Enclosure, the Main Enclosure, the Old Castle, and the New Castle—are arranged in a horseshoe (U-shape) around the central valley (Furogatani). This shape is unusual for a medieval mountain castle and provides excellent defensive and surveillance capabilities.
Centered around the Main Enclosure at the highest point, two or three levels of flat ground are provided, and each enclosure is separated by moats and cliffs. The castle features relatively few earthworks and is characterized by its layout that skillfully utilizes the natural terrain.
History of Kawagomori Castle | From Construction to Abandonment
Construction and the Era of the Watanabe Clan (Kawarabuchi Clan)
The exact construction date of Kawagomori Castle is unknown, but tradition holds that it was built by the Watanabe clan in 1196 (Kenkyu 7). During the Sengoku period, the Watanabe clan (Kawarabuchi clan), known as “Kawarabuchi-dono,” served as the castle’s lords for generations.
The Watanabe clan were local lords belonging to the Uwa-Saionji clan, and were known as Kawarabuchi-dono because the area was called Kurotsuchi-go Kawarabuchi-ryo. Located at a strategic point on the border between Iyo and Tosa provinces, this castle functioned as an important border defense base until the late 16th century.
The Chosokabe Clan’s Invasion and the Wave of Shikoku Unification
In the late 16th century, as Chosokabe Motochika, a Sengoku daimyo of Tosa Province, expanded his power with the aim of unifying Shikoku, Kawagomori Castle was also affected. The Chosokabe clan’s movement towards unifying Shikoku created a tense, frontline situation for Kawagomori Castle, located on the border between Iyo and Tosa Provinces.
After Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Conquest of Shikoku
In 1585 (Tensho 13), after Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s conquest of Shikoku, the rulers of the region changed hands repeatedly. As control shifted from the Toda clan to the Todo clan and then to the Tomita clan, Kawagomori Castle also took on a new role.
Particularly noteworthy is the period when Todo Takatora became the lord of Uwajima County with a 70,000 koku domain. According to tradition, the keep of Kawagomori Castle was relocated to Itajima Castle (present-day Uwajima Castle), illustrating the castle’s importance and the high quality of its architecture.
The Era of the Date Clan and the Abandonment of the Castle
In 1614 (Keicho 19), when Date Hidemune, the eldest son of Date Masamune, founded the Uwajima Domain, the Kuwori clan, his chief retainers, resided at Kawagomori Castle. However, with the “One Castle Per Province” decree of 1615 (Genna 1), Kawagomori Castle was abandoned, bringing its history to an end.
After its abandonment, the castle ruins returned to nature over many years. However, thanks to archaeological excavations and restoration work since the end of the 20th century, it is now a valuable historical site enjoyed by many.
Highlights of Kawagomori Castle | Remains and Restored Facilities
The Kawagomori Castle ruins are a nationally designated historical site and have been carefully maintained, making it a highly valuable spot for learning about the structure of a medieval mountain castle. Each area has different characteristics, and the main points of interest can be visited on foot in about 1 to 1.5 hours.
West Tenth Enclosure | Restored Buildings and Earthworks
The West Tenth Enclosure is a particularly well-maintained area within the Kawagomori Castle ruins. Based on the results of archaeological excavations, the buildings of the time have been faithfully restored, allowing visitors to concretely imagine what a mountain castle from the Sengoku period looked like.
The restored gates and buildings recreate medieval architectural techniques, making it one of the most photogenic spots for visitors. Earthworks have also been restored, allowing visitors to visually understand their function as defensive structures.
Main Enclosure | Castle Center and Stone Wall Remains
Located at the highest point, approximately 172 meters above sea level, the main enclosure is the heart of Kawagomori Castle. From here, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, appreciating its strategic location as a key point for border surveillance.
Some stone walls remain in the main enclosure, confirming that buildings once stood here. Since the use of stone walls is relatively rare in medieval mountain castles, these stone wall remains are valuable. The slopes and cliffs carved out of bedrock are also a highlight, demonstrating the advanced civil engineering techniques of the time.
Old Castle | Early Castle Area
The Old Castle area, located west of the main enclosure, is believed to be the initial castle area of Kawagomori Castle. Multiple enclosures are arranged in a stepped fashion, allowing observation of a typical medieval mountain castle structure.
The ridge path leading from the Old Castle to the main enclosure is a valuable route that allows you to experience the movement patterns of the time. It is maintained as a walking path, making it safe to walk.
New Castle | The Impressive Series of Moats
The New Castle area, located southeast of the main enclosure, is notable for its series of moats. A moat is a ditch dug to cut across a ridge, an important defensive structure to prevent enemy intrusion.
The series of moats at New Castle consists of multiple moats arranged in a row, demonstrating ingenuity in enhancing defensive capabilities. The deep and wide moats are a testament to the large-scale civil engineering work of the time, making them a fascinating historical site for history buffs.
East Third Enclosure and Furogatani Valley
The East Third Enclosure is a group of enclosures located at the eastern edge of the castle grounds. From here, one can see the Hiromi River and the surrounding scenery, suggesting it served a surveillance function.
In Furogatani Valley, the central valley, the remains of a well are found, providing clues about how water was secured within the castle. The arrangement of the enclosures surrounding Furogatani Valley clearly reveals a horseshoe-shaped layout when viewed from above.
Moats and Cut Slopes | Defensive Techniques
At Kawagomori Castle, defensive structures such as moats and cut slopes can be observed throughout. Moats, as mentioned earlier, are trenches that cut across ridges, while cut slopes are defensive walls carved into slopes at a near-vertical angle.
By utilizing natural slopes while artificially creating steep cut slopes, ingenious methods to make enemy ascent difficult can be seen throughout the castle. These remains can be clearly observed because proper maintenance, such as grass cutting, is carried out. ## Development Status of Kawagomori Castle Ruins | An Easily Visitable Historic Site
Kawagomori Castle Ruins, a nationally designated historic site, is undergoing planned development, creating a very visitor-friendly environment.
Restoration Based on Archaeological Excavations
Since the 1990s, continuous archaeological excavations have been conducted, and based on the results, the buildings and earthworks of the West Tenth Enclosure have been restored. In the restoration, emphasis was placed on archaeological evidence, and efforts were made to reproduce the original appearance as closely as possible.
Walking Paths and Information Boards
Walking paths have been developed throughout the castle grounds, allowing visitors to safely tour the main enclosures. Information boards placed throughout the site clearly explain the characteristics of the remains and their historical background, making them easy to understand even for first-time visitors.
The information boards also make extensive use of diagrams and photographs, providing visual information. Furthermore, guide signs indicating your current location are placed at key points, ensuring you won’t get lost during your visit.
Regular Mowing and Maintenance
To preserve the value of the historical site, regular mowing and maintenance are carried out. This ensures that the remains are clearly visible and suitable for photography. The site’s excellent state of preservation is maintained through the efforts of local residents and the local government.
Visitor Guide | Access and Visiting Information
Access Methods
Using Public Transportation
The nearest station is Matsumaru Station on the JR Yodo Line. It takes approximately 15 minutes to walk from Matsumaru Station to the Kawagomori Castle Ruins. There is a signpost in front of the station showing the route to the castle ruins.
JR Matsumaru Station is approximately 1 hour from Uwajima Station on the Yodo Line, and approximately 40 minutes from Kubokawa Station in Kochi Prefecture. Since the Yodo Line has limited train service, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
If traveling by car:
- Approximately 40 minutes from the Matsuyama Expressway, Mima IC, via National Route 320.
- Approximately 30 minutes from the Kochi Expressway, Shimanto-cho Chuo IC, via National Route 381.
Parking: Free parking is available near the entrance to the Kawagomori Castle ruins. Approximately 10 regular-sized cars can park there.
Estimated Visiting Time
For a standard tour of the Kawagomori Castle ruins, allow approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. If you wish to carefully observe the various remains and enjoy taking photographs, it is recommended to allow about 2 hours.
While the climbing path is well-maintained, as it is a mountain castle, comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. Particular caution is advised after rain, as the ground can become slippery.
Points to Note During Your Visit
- Start your visit from the West Tenth Enclosure: There are reconstructed buildings, making it easy to grasp the atmosphere of the castle.
- View the entire site from the main enclosure: Understand the location from the highest point.
- Check out the continuous moats of the new castle: Observe the ingenuity of the defensive structures.
- Walk around Furogatani: Experience the horseshoe-shaped layout.
Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles Stamp
Kagomori Castle is selected as the 181st castle in the “Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles.” The stamp is located at the “Matsuno Town Forest Country Creation Center” in front of Matsumaru Station. Opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays, or the following day if Monday is a public holiday).
If you enjoy visiting castles, don’t forget to bring your stamp book.
Admission Fee and Opening Hours
Kagomori Castle Ruins are an outdoor historical site, and admission is free. There are no restrictions on visiting hours, but for safety reasons, we recommend visiting during daylight hours.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Roadside Station “Niji no Mori Park Matsuno”
This roadside station is located about 5 minutes by car from the Kawagomori Castle Ruins. You can purchase local specialties and fresh agricultural products, and enjoy dishes made with local ingredients at the restaurant. It also features the “Osakana-kan” (Fish Museum), themed around the clear waters of the Shimanto River, where you can view exhibits of freshwater fish.
Nametoko Gorge
A representative natural landscape of Matsuno Town, located about 20 minutes by car from the Kawagomori Castle Ruins. Enjoy the beautiful gorge scenery, including the “Yukiwa Falls,” selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, where clear streams and giant rocks intertwine.
Mori no Kuni Hotel
An accommodation facility located in Matsuno Town, offering hot springs. Convenient for staying after visiting the Kawagomori Castle Ruins.
Uwajima Castle
One of the 12 remaining original castle keeps, located about 40 minutes by car from Kawagomori Castle. As mentioned earlier, there is a legend that the keep of Kawagomori Castle was relocated to Uwajima Castle, making a visit to both castles an interesting comparison. Uwajima Castle is a flatland castle facing the sea, with a location and structure that contrasts sharply with Kawagomori Castle.
Points to Note When Visiting Kawagomori Castle
Clothing and Equipment
- Comfortable walking shoes (trekking shoes or sneakers recommended)
- Comfortable clothing
- Insect repellent and a hat in summer
- Bring drinking water
- Rain gear (due to the unpredictable weather in the mountainous area)
Seasonal Characteristics
Spring (March-May): Beautiful fresh greenery and mild weather make it an ideal season for visiting.
Summer (June-August): The greenery is dense, sometimes making it difficult to see the remains. Heat and insect repellent measures are necessary.
Autumn (September-November): Beautiful autumn foliage and pleasant weather. Along with spring, it’s an ideal season for visiting.
Winter (December-February): The fallen leaves make the ruins easier to observe. However, cold weather precautions are necessary.
Safety Precautions
- As it is a mountain castle, visiting in a group is safer than visiting alone.
- Be careful of your footing on steep slopes and cliffs.
- Avoid visiting during or after rain, as the ground can be slippery.
- Checking your cell phone signal strength beforehand is recommended.
Cultural Value of Kawagomori Castle
Significance of National Historic Site Designation
Kawagomori Castle ruins were designated a National Historic Site on September 11, 1997 (Heisei 9). This designation was based on the following evaluations:
- Typical Example of a Medieval Mountain Castle: Strategically located on the border between Iyo and Tosa provinces.
- Unique Layout: Characteristic horseshoe-shaped arrangement.
- Preservation of Remains: Diverse remains such as moats, cliffs, and stone walls are well-preserved.
- Importance in Regional History: An indispensable historical site for understanding the Sengoku period history of Shikoku, particularly in relation to the Saionji and Chosokabe clans.
Academic Research Results
Continued archaeological excavations have yielded much insight into the structure and evolution of this medieval mountain castle. In particular, important data regarding the construction methods of the baileys and the arrangement of defensive facilities has been accumulated, influencing research on other mountain castles.
Excavated artifacts are also revealing aspects of the lifestyle and trade of the time, making this a historical site of high archaeological value.
The Community and Kawagomori Castle | Preservation Activities and Utilization
Matsuno Town’s Initiatives
Matsuno Town recognizes the Kawagomori Castle ruins as a valuable cultural asset of the region and is actively working on both preservation and utilization. They are focusing on creating a comfortable environment for visitors through regular grass cutting, maintenance of walking paths, and updating of explanatory signs.
The “800 Castle Lords” System
Kawagomori Castle implements the “800 Castle Lords” system to support the preservation and utilization of the historical site. This system certifies supporters as “Castle Lords” and asks them to cooperate in the maintenance, management, and promotion of the historical site. Castle Lords receive special certificates, limited-edition goods, and other benefits such as priority participation in events.
Local Events and Educational Activities
Matsuno Town also holds historical events and learning programs for elementary and junior high school students at the Kawagomori Castle ruins. It is used as a place for local children to learn about their town’s history and as a tourist resource.
The regularly held “Kagomori Castle Ruins Guided Tour” offers expert guides who provide detailed explanations while guiding visitors through the castle ruins. Details can be found on the Matsuno Town Board of Education and Tourism Association websites.
Summary | Experience the Charm of Kawagomori Castle
Kagomori Castle (Ehime Prefecture) is a valuable historical site where you can fully appreciate the charm of a medieval mountain castle. It boasts numerous attractions, including a horseshoe-shaped layout built at a strategic point on the border between Iyo and Tosa provinces, well-preserved remains such as moats and cliffs, and reconstructed buildings.
Selected as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles and designated as a national historical site, Kawagomori Castle Ruins is recommended not only for history buffs but also for those who enjoy hiking and nature walks. Well-maintained walking paths and easy-to-understand information boards make it a safe and enjoyable experience even for first-time visitors to mountain castles.
When you visit Matsuno Town, be sure to visit Kawagomori Castle Ruins and experience the spirit of the Sengoku period. Enjoying the surrounding natural scenery, hot springs, and roadside rest areas will make your trip even more fulfilling.
Experience the profound depths of Japanese history and culture at Kawagomori Castle, a hidden gem in the Nanyo region of Ehime Prefecture.
