Higashimachi Castle (Kamioka Castle) Complete Guide | History, Structure, Highlights, and Visiting Information
Higashimachi Castle is a Sengoku period mountain castle located in Kamioka-cho, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture. Also known as Kamioka Castle, Okino Castle, and Nojiri Castle, it is known as a castle that played an important role in the Sengoku period history of the Hida region. This article provides a detailed explanation of everything you need to know before visiting Higashimachi Castle, from its historical background and structure to its highlights and access information.
What is Higashimachi Castle?
Higashimachi Castle is a mountain castle said to have been built by Ema Tokimori at the command of Takeda Shingen, and was an important military base in northern Hida Province. Built on a mountaintop approximately 600 meters above sea level, this castle monitored a key transportation point along the Takahara River and became a stage for power struggles in the Hida region.
Currently, some remains of the castle are still standing, attracting attention from local history enthusiasts and castle fans. In recent years, a replica castle tower has been built under the name Kamioka Castle, and it has become a popular tourist spot.
History of Higashimachi Castle
Background of Construction and the Ema Clan
The history of Higashimachi Castle is deeply intertwined with the Ema clan, a powerful local family in Hida Province. The Ema clan ruled northern Hida from the Kamakura period, and during the Sengoku period, they shared power with the Anegakoji clan (Miki clan) within Hida Province.
Ema Tokimori is said to have strengthened his relationship with Takeda Shingen during the Eiroku era (1558-1570) and built Higashimachi Castle with his support. After pacifying Shinano Province, Takeda Shingen sought to expand his influence in the Hida region, and the Ema clan held an important strategic position as a partner.
Battles in the Sengoku Period
After its construction, Higashimachi Castle became a focal point of power struggles within Hida Province. The conflict between the Ema and Anegakoji clans was particularly intense, with numerous battles fought between them.
During the Tensho era (1573-1592), Oda Nobunaga’s influence began to extend into Hida Province. After the Honnoji Incident in 1582, the Hida region entered a period of turmoil, and the Ema clan’s power gradually declined.
The Kanamori Clan Era and the Abandonment of the Castle
In 1585, Kanamori Nagachika, acting on orders from Toyotomi Hideyoshi, invaded Hida Province and destroyed the Ema clan. The Kanamori clan established Takayama Castle as the new ruler of Hida Province, and Higashimachi Castle lost its importance.
While Higashimachi Castle may have functioned as a subsidiary castle under the Kanamori clan’s rule, it is believed to have been abandoned due to the “One Castle Per Province” decree in the early Edo period. Afterwards, the castle ruins were forgotten for a long time, but in 1970 (Showa 45), a replica keep was constructed, and it was reborn as the tourist facility “Kamioka Castle.”
Structure and Layout of Higashimachi Castle
Location and Utilization of Topography
Higashimachi Castle is built on a hill surrounded by the Takahara River and its tributaries. This location exhibits the characteristics of a typical mountain castle, skillfully utilizing the natural terrain. The east and west sides of the castle have steep slopes, functioning as a natural defensive line that made enemy intrusion difficult.
The Takahara River flows to the north of the castle, and mountains stretch to the south. This topographical arrangement made the castle a strong fortress protected on all sides by natural strongholds.
Arrangement of Enclosures
The layout of Higashimachi Castle consists of multiple enclosures (kuruwa) arranged around the main enclosure. The main enclosure is located at the highest point of the castle and is estimated to have measured approximately 50 meters east-west and 30 meters north-south.
Around the main enclosure, the second and third enclosures were arranged in a stepped fashion, each enclosure being demarcated by earthworks and moats. This multi-layered defensive structure is a common feature of mountain castles from the Sengoku period and reflects a design philosophy of gradually preventing enemy incursions.
Defensive Structures
Higashimachi Castle possessed defensive structures typical of mountain castles from the Sengoku period.
Moats: These were dry moats dug to cut across the ridge, serving as an important defensive line to hinder enemy advances. Clear traces of moats can be seen on the south and north sides of the main enclosure at Higashimachi Castle.
Earthworks: These were defensive walls built by piling up earth along the edges of the enclosures, protecting the castle from enemy arrows and musket fire. Traces of earthworks can still be observed in some enclosures today.
Vertical Moats: These moats, dug vertically along the slope, effectively restricted enemy lateral movement and limited attack routes. Multiple vertical moats have been identified on the eastern and western slopes of Higashimachi Castle.
Entrance and Ascent Route
The entrance (koguchi) to the castle was the most crucial defensive point. It is believed that Higashimachi Castle’s entrance was a “staggered entrance” designed to prevent enemies from advancing directly.
The ascent route followed a winding path up the slope, with multiple baileys (kuruma) along the way. This ensured that the attacking army was constantly exposed to attacks from within the castle.
Highlights of Higashimachi Castle
Observation Points for the Remains
When visiting Higashimachi Castle, paying attention to the following remains will provide a deeper understanding of the Sengoku period mountain castle.
Main Enclosure Site: The site where the current replica keep stands is the main enclosure site. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kamioka town, truly appreciating the castle’s strategic location.
Moat: The moats remaining on the north and south sides of the main enclosure are important remains for understanding the defensive system of Higashimachi Castle. The southern moat, in particular, is large in scale, demonstrating the advanced civil engineering technology of the time.
Elevation Differences in Enclosures: Walking through the castle ruins, you can clearly see elevation differences. These are traces of artificially constructed enclosures, illustrating the castle’s three-dimensional structure.
Kamioka Castle (Replica Keep)
Constructed in 1970, the replica keep “Kamioka Castle” is a symbol of the Higashimachi Castle ruins. While there is no evidence of a historical keep existing, this building functions as a local tourist hub.
The interior of the keep houses a local history museum, where you can learn about Kamioka’s history, culture, and mining history. The view from the top floor is magnificent, offering a panoramic view of the Northern Alps and the townscape of Kamioka.
Nearby Historical Spots
The area around Higashimachi Castle is dotted with spots where you can experience the history of Hida.
Ema Clan Residence Ruins: The Ema clan’s residence ruins, designated as a national historic site, are located about 10 minutes by car from Higashimachi Castle. The garden has been restored based on archaeological excavations, allowing visitors to experience the living space of a medieval samurai.
Kamioka Mine Ruins: This mine operated from the Edo period to the Showa period and is an industrial heritage site that supported the development of Kamioka. Part of it is open to the public as a visitor facility.
Access to Higashimachi Castle
Access by Car
Access to Higashimachi Castle (Kamioka Castle) is most convenient by car.
From the Tokai Region:
- Approximately 50 minutes from the Hida-Kiyomi Interchange on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway via National Routes 41 and 471.
- Approximately 45 minutes from the Takayama Interchange on the Chubu-Jukan Expressway via National Routes 41 and 471.
From the Hokuriku Region:
- Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from the Toyama Interchange on the Hokuriku Expressway via National Routes 41 and 471.
Kamioka Castle has a free parking lot that can accommodate approximately 30 regular cars.
Access by Public Transportation
When using public transportation, the following route is common:
- Get off at Takayama Station on the JR Takayama Line.
- Take the Nohi Bus “Kamioka Line” for approximately 1 hour and get off at “Kamioka Shinko Jimusho-mae” bus stop.
- Kamioka Castle is approximately a 15-minute walk from the bus stop.
Since the number of buses is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Best Time to Visit
Higashimachi Castle is open year-round, but each season offers a different charm.
Spring (April-May): The area around the castle is beautifully adorned with cherry blossoms. The contrast between the snow-capped Northern Alps and the cherry blossoms is stunning.
Summer (June-August): Enjoy the lush green scenery. However, insect repellent, typical of mountain castles, is necessary.
Autumn (September-November): The autumn foliage is particularly beautiful, making it ideal for exploring the castle ruins. The weather is also relatively stable.
Winter (December-March): Access to the castle ruins may be difficult due to snow. Please check road conditions before visiting.
Visitor Guide
Opening Hours
Kamioka Castle (Replica Keep & Local History Museum)
- Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Last entry 16:30)
- Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday), New Year holidays
- Admission Fee: Adults 200 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students 100 yen
*Fees may change, so please check before visiting.
Estimated Visiting Time
Please use the following time allocation as a guideline for visiting Higashimachi Castle:
- Visiting Kamioka Castle (Replica Keep): Approximately 30 minutes
- Exploring the Castle Ruins: Approximately 30 minutes – 1 hour
- Including surrounding spots (Ema Clan Residence Ruins, etc.): Half a day – 1 day
If you want to carefully observe the remains of the castle, we recommend allowing at least one hour.
Clothing and Items to Bring
The following preparations are recommended for exploring the castle ruins.
- Footwear: Comfortable sneakers or hiking boots. Non-slip shoes are essential for walking on slopes.
- Clothing: Comfortable clothing. Warm clothing in spring and autumn, and insect repellent in summer.
- Items to Bring: Drinking water, towel, camera, binoculars (if enjoying the view)
- Rain Gear: Since the weather in this mountainous area can change quickly, a folding umbrella or rain gear is recommended.
Photo Spots
The following spots are recommended for commemorative photos at Higashimachi Castle:
- Replica Castle Tower and Cherry Blossoms: In spring, the combination of cherry blossoms and the castle tower is a spectacular sight.
- View from the Castle Tower: You can take photos with the townscape of Kamioka and the Northern Alps in the background.
- Moat: Photos capturing the remains of the Sengoku period up close are popular with castle enthusiasts.
- Evening View: The silhouette of the castle tower at dusk is magical.
Tourist Attractions Around Higashimachi Castle
Ema Clan Residence Ruins Park
This is the site of the Ema clan’s residence, designated as a national historical site, located about 10 minutes by car from Higashimachi Castle. The garden, restored based on archaeological excavations, conveys the aesthetic sensibilities of a medieval samurai family. Admission is free, and the guidance facility offers insights into the history of the Ema clan.
Kamioka Mine Ruins and Mining Museum
This facility allows visitors to learn about the history of the mine that supported the development of Kamioka. It showcases the mine’s operations from the Edo period to the Showa period using actual artifacts and models. The exhibits of machinery used in the mine are particularly impressive.
Super-Kamiokande
This is a world-famous neutrino observation facility utilizing the site of the Kamioka Mine. It is known as the location where research that won the Nobel Prize in Physics was conducted. While tours of the facility’s interior are limited and require advance reservations, the nearby “Hida Space Science Museum Kamioka Lab” offers an easy-to-understand introduction to neutrino research.
Hida City Center
Located about 30 minutes by car from Higashimachi Castle, Takayama city center boasts a preserved old townscape, featuring traditional buildings, local sake breweries, and Hida beef restaurants. Visiting Higashimachi Castle and Takayama together allows you to enjoy the culture and cuisine of the Hida region.
Historical Significance of Higashimachi Castle
Position in the Sengoku Period History of Hida Province
Higashimachi Castle is an important fortress for understanding the Sengoku period history of Hida Province. Because Hida Province was geographically isolated from the major central powers, a unique political situation developed. The conflict between the Ema and Anegakoji clans reflects the unique power structure of this region.
Built under the influence of Takeda Shingen, Higashimachi Castle also serves as tangible evidence of the political ties between Kai and Hida Provinces. In the Takeda clan’s strategy for expanding their sphere of influence, Hida Province held a crucial position connecting Shinano and Etchu Provinces.
Research Materials on Mountain Castle Construction Techniques
The layout of Higashimachi Castle is a valuable resource for studying mountain castle construction techniques of the mid-Sengoku period. The arrangement of defensive structures such as moats, trenches, and earthworks reflects the military thinking and civil engineering level of the time.
In particular, the layout, which makes maximum use of the terrain, reflects the rational thinking of Sengoku daimyo who sought to achieve maximum defensive effectiveness with limited labor and resources.
Importance in Local History
Higashimachi Castle is an important historical heritage site that forms the identity of the Kamioka region. It is cherished by local residents as the starting point of Kamioka’s history, from the rule of the Ema clan to the governance of the Kanamori clan and then to modern mining development.
The construction of the replica castle tower is also noteworthy as a pioneering example of tourism promotion utilizing local historical heritage.
Resources for Learning About Higashimachi Castle
Related Books
The following books are helpful for learning about Higashimachi Castle and the Ema clan.
- *Hida no Shiro* (Hida Castles) (Kyodo Publishing): A comprehensive book introducing castles in the Hida region, including a detailed explanation of Higashimachi Castle.
- *Sengoku Hida no Ryoshu Ema-shi* (The Ema Clan, Lords of Hida in the Warring States Period): A book specializing in the history of the Ema clan, providing insight into the background of Higashimachi Castle’s construction.
- *Nihon Jōkaku Taikei Vol. 8* (Comprehensive Survey of Japanese Castles, Volume 8): A fundamental academic text explaining castles in the Chubu region, including Higashimachi Castle.
Historical Materials and Research
Primary sources concerning Higashimachi Castle are limited, but fragments of its history can be gleaned from documents related to the Ema clan and records from the Kanamori clan era.
In recent years, archaeological investigations have also progressed, including the creation of layout maps and surveys of remains. These results are publicly available at the Hida City Cultural Properties Department and the local history museum.
Digital Archives
Numerous visit records and photographs by castle enthusiasts are available online. In particular, castle-specialized websites such as “Kojodan” (Castle Attack Group) share detailed information from actual visitors, which can be helpful when planning your visit.
Summary
Higashimachi Castle (Kamioka Castle) is a historical site of significant historical and cultural value, having been an important mountain castle in Hida Province during the Sengoku period. Built by Ema Tokimori under the influence of Takeda Shingen, this castle tells the story of the complex political situation in the Hida region and the strategies of the Sengoku daimyo.
Currently, a replica keep stands on the site, serving as a local history museum that conveys the history of the region. The remains of the castle, such as moats and baileys, are valuable historical materials that convey the castle-building techniques of the Sengoku period.
With its views of the Northern Alps, nearby historical sites such as the Ema clan residence ruins and the Kamioka mine ruins, and the rich nature and culture of Hida, a visit to Higashimachi Castle will be a fulfilling experience that combines historical exploration and sightseeing.
I recommend visiting Higashimachi Castle not only to castle enthusiasts but also to anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. It will be a valuable opportunity to feel the spirit of the Sengoku period and experience the depth of Hida’s history.
