The History of Miki Castle and the Full Picture of the Battle of Miki | A Detailed Explanation of a Famous Castle That Flourished as One of the Three Great Castles of Harima
Overview of Miki Castle
Miki Castle (Miki-jo) was a flatland castle located in what is now Kaminomaru-cho, Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture. Also known as Busan Castle and Bessho Castle, it was an important fortress, counted among the “Three Great Castles of Harima” alongside Gochaku Castle of the Kodera clan and Aga Castle of the Miki clan.
Built on a river terrace on the left bank of the Mino River, on the northern edge of a plateau approximately 50 meters above sea level, Miki Castle was situated at a strategic transportation point, almost midway between Himeji and Arima. The castle grounds extended approximately 600 meters east-west and 700 meters north-south, and it is known as a natural stronghold, surrounded by mountains and valleys to the south and cliffs on the other three sides.
Currently, the Miki Castle ruins are designated as a national historic site as “Miki Castle Ruins and Ancillary Castle Ruins/Earthworks,” and occupy an important position in the history of Japanese castles as a representative example of a siege by starvation during the Sengoku period.
The Construction of Miki Castle and the History of the Bessho Clan
Construction by the Miki Bessho Clan
Miki Castle is believed to have been built around the end of the 15th century by Bessho Noriharu, the first head of the Miki Bessho clan. While one theory suggests that Bessho Nagaharu built it in 1492, this is likely a confusion with the later lord, Bessho Nagaharu. The prevailing theory is that it was actually built during Noriharu’s time.
Expansion of the Bessho Clan’s Power
The Miki Bessho clan expanded their power as a powerful local lord in Harima Province, controlling the eastern Harima region by establishing many branch castles centered around Miki Castle. The Bessho clan ruled this region for generations, and during the Sengoku period, they grew to become one of the most powerful forces in Harima Province.
Under the Bessho clan’s rule were numerous branch castles, including Ogawa Castle, Noguchi Castle, Takagi Castle, and Hashitani Castle, which formed a defensive network centered around Miki Castle. This network of branch castles would play a crucial role in the later Battle of Miki.
Details of the Battle of Miki (The Starvation of Miki)
Background of the Battle
In 1578 (Tensho 6), the situation in Harima Province reached a major turning point. Bessho Nagaharu, who had initially been cooperative with Hashiba Hideyoshi, who was advancing the Chugoku region under the orders of Oda Nobunaga, suddenly rebelled.
It is believed that several factors were intertwined behind this, including his relationship with the Mori clan, his response to Araki Murashige’s rebellion, and dissatisfaction with his treatment within the Oda family. Bessho Nagaharu allied himself with the Mori clan, clearly demonstrating his opposition to the Oda forces.
The Beginning of the Siege
In March of Tensho 6 (1578), Hashiba Hideyoshi began his siege of Miki Castle. However, Miki Castle, known as the strongest fortress in Harima Province, did not fall easily. Hideyoshi avoided a direct assault and opted for a strategy of besieging the castle and starving its defenders.
Hideyoshi constructed numerous auxiliary castles (tsukejiro) around Miki Castle. He established his main camp on Hiraiyama Mountain, creating a siege network overlooking Miki Castle. The remains of these auxiliary castles still exist today, testifying to the scale of the siege operation.
Capture of Subsidiary Castles
Before attacking Miki Castle itself, Hideyoshi successively captured the surrounding subsidiary castles. By eliminating the network of subsidiary castles supporting Miki Castle, such as Ogawa Castle, Noguchi Castle, and Hashitani Castle, one by one, he implemented a strategy to completely isolate Miki Castle.
During this process, the powerful branch castles of the Bessho clan, Kanki Castle and Shikata Castle, also fell, completely cutting off the supply lines to Miki Castle. Hideyoshi’s army also secured control of the Harima Sea to block sea supply lines.
“The Starvation of Miki”
Completely besieged, Miki Castle’s food supplies began to dwindle as time passed. The besieged forces were reduced to a horrific situation, resorting to eating even horses and the roots of plants. This thorough siege became known as “The Starvation of Miki” and would be recounted to posterity.
The siege lasted for a long period of 1 year and 10 months. Deaths from starvation continued to pour in within the castle, and its fighting capacity drastically declined. Nevertheless, Bessho Nagaharu refused to surrender and continued to resist to the very end.
The Surrender of the Castle and the End of Bessho Nagaharu
In January of Tensho 8 (1580), Bessho Nagaharu finally decided to surrender the castle. However, the condition was that he would offer his own life in exchange for the lives of the castle’s soldiers.
On January 17th of the same year, Bessho Nagaharu committed suicide along with his family, and Miki Castle surrendered. Nagaharu’s age at death is said to be either 23 or 25. This young lord’s tragic end left a deep impression on many people.
Miki Castle After the Battle of Miki
Rule of Hashiba Hideyoshi
After conquering Miki Castle, Hashiba Hideyoshi made Himeji Castle his residence, and appointed a castle governor to govern Miki Castle. Hideyoshi himself continued his campaign in the Chugoku region, eventually embarking on the path to unifying Japan.
The Era of Nakagawa Hidemasa and Hidenari
In August of Tensho 13 (1585), Nakagawa Hidemasa entered Miki Castle. Hidemasa served as a senior retainer of Hideyoshi, but was killed in action during the Korean campaign in 1592. His younger brother, Nakagawa Hidenari, succeeded him, but was transferred to Bungo Province in 1594.
Early Edo Period
In 1600, after the Battle of Sekigahara, when Ikeda Terumasa entered Himeji, Igi Tadatsugu was appointed to Miki Castle with a 30,000 koku stipend. However, with the “One Castle Per Province” decree of 1615, Miki Castle was abandoned.
At this time, the castle’s structures were demolished, and parts of the stone walls were also destroyed. Thus, Miki Castle closed its approximately 120-year history.
The Castle Structure of Miki Castle
Layout and Utilization of Topography
Miki Castle was built on a river terrace formed by the Mino River, and its layout skillfully utilizes the natural terrain. Located at the northern edge of the plateau, it was a natural stronghold surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs.
The castle grounds consisted of the main keep (Honmaru), the second bailey (Ninmaru), and other baileys (Shinjo). It boasted a vast scale of approximately 600 meters east-west and 700 meters north-south, and was structured to accommodate a large number of soldiers.
Main Keep and Major Facilities
The main keep (Honmaru) was the core of the castle, housing the lord’s residence and important buildings. The current Uenomaru Park is located in its central area. Traces of a keep base have also been confirmed at the Honmaru site, suggesting the possibility of a keep or a similar structure of a certain size existing there.
Earthworks and Moats
At Miki Castle, earthworks, rather than stone walls, were the primary defensive feature. Even today, some remains of the earthworks remain, providing valuable clues to understanding the castle’s structure at the time.
Regarding the moats, it is believed that a combination of natural valleys and artificially excavated sections were used. The deep valley on the south side, in particular, functioned as a natural moat.
Wells and Water Sources
Miki Castle, which withstood a long siege, had several wells. A well known as “the well where Lord Bessho Nagaharu’s head was washed” still remains today. However, records indicate that food shortages were more serious than water shortages during the 1 year and 10 month siege.
Remains and Current State of Miki Castle
National Historic Site
The Miki Castle site was designated a National Historic Site in 1983 as “Miki Castle Site and its Outer Fortifications and Earthworks.” This comprehensive designation includes not only the main Miki Castle but also the outer fortifications constructed by Hideyoshi, and it is valued as a valuable historical site that illustrates the realities of siege warfare during the Sengoku period.
Existing Remains
Currently, the following remains are preserved at the Miki Castle site:
Earthworks: Earthworks remain partially, mainly around the main keep. The height varies depending on the location, but some sections maintain a maximum height of approximately 2 meters.
Well Remains: A well, traditionally known as the “well where Lord Bessho Nagaharu’s head was washed,” is preserved. Part of the stonework retains its original form.
Enclosure Remains: The topography of enclosures such as the main keep and second enclosure remains, allowing visitors to appreciate the scale of the castle.
Dry Moat Remains: Traces of dry moats can be seen in some areas.
Remains of Outlying Fortifications
Numerous remains of outlying fortifications constructed by Hideyoshi also remain around Miki Castle. The Hiraiyama outlying fortifications, in particular, are large in scale, with clearly visible earthworks and enclosure remains. These outlying fortifications are extremely important historical materials for studying siege tactics during the Sengoku period. ### Development and Park Development
The central area of the Miki Castle ruins has been developed into Uenomaru Park, a place of relaxation for citizens. A bronze statue of Bessho Nagaharu stands within the park, along with an explanatory sign.
In recent years, development efforts have been underway to enhance the site’s historical value, including the installation of archaeological markers based on the results of excavation surveys.
Access to Miki Castle Ruins
Access by Public Transportation
Train: Get off at Miki-Uenomaru Station on the Kobe Electric Railway Aō Line, and it’s about a 5-minute walk to the Miki Castle Ruins (Uenomaru Park). The path from the station to the castle ruins is flat, making access very convenient.
JR and Sanyo Electric Railway users will need to transfer to the Aō Line at Minatogawa Station on the Kobe Electric Railway.
Bus: Take a Shinki Bus from Seishin-Chuo Station on the Kobe Municipal Subway, get off at the Miki City Hall bus stop, and it’s about a 10-minute walk.
Access by Car
Sanyo Expressway: Approximately 5 minutes from Miki-Higashi Interchange, and approximately 10 minutes from Miki-Ono Interchange.
Parking: There is no dedicated parking lot at Uenomaru Park, but there are Miki City-operated parking lots and private parking lots nearby. The Miki City Hall parking lot may also be available on holidays.
Points to Note During Your Visit
Visiting the Miki Castle Ruins is free of charge; no entrance fee is required. As it is a park, it can be visited year-round.
The estimated time required for a visit is approximately 30 minutes if you only visit the castle ruins, or 2-3 hours if you also visit the surrounding outlying castle ruins.
Related Historical Sites in the Area
Miki City Miki Historical Museum
This museum, located within walking distance of the Miki Castle Ruins, features extensive exhibits on Miki Castle and the Battle of Miki. You can learn about the history of Miki Castle in detail through excavated artifacts, ancient documents, and dioramas.
Burial Site of Lord Bessho Nagaharu
Located southeast of Miki Castle, Hokaiji Temple houses the burial site of Bessho Nagaharu and his family. A memorial service is held annually on the anniversary of his death, attracting many visitors.
Sites of Subsidiary Castles
Around Miki Castle, the remains of subsidiary castles built by Hideyoshi are scattered. Representative examples include the Hiraiyama Subsidiary Castle site, Takaoyama Castle site, and Takagi Otsuka Castle site, all of which have well-preserved remains. Visiting these sites allows for a deeper understanding of the realities of the siege.
Ogo Castle Site
One of Miki Castle’s subsidiary castles, it was the site of fierce fighting during the Battle of Miki. Stone walls and baileys remain today, allowing visitors to appreciate the remains of a mountain castle.
Historical Significance of Miki Castle
Position in Sengoku Period History
Miki Castle holds significant importance in Hashiba Hideyoshi’s path to unifying Japan. The victory at the Battle of Miki allowed Hideyoshi to complete the pacification of Harima Province and gain a foothold for his conquest of the Chugoku region.
Furthermore, the siege known as the “Starvation of Miki,” a tactical siege, is considered an example of Hideyoshi’s tactical characteristics and is thought to have influenced his later sieges of Tottori Castle and Odawara Castle.
Value in Castle History
Miki Castle is a valuable example of castle architecture from the transitional period between the medieval and early modern eras. While its defensive structure, primarily based on earthworks, retains medieval elements, its vast castle grounds and planned layout demonstrate the advanced castle-building techniques of the Sengoku period.
In addition, the preservation of the historical site, including its auxiliary fortifications, is rare nationwide, making it an extremely important historical resource for studying the realities of siege warfare.
Importance in Regional History
Miki Castle played a central role in the history of Harima Province. As the base of the Bessho clan and the stage of the Battle of Miki, it is an important element in shaping the region’s identity.
Even today, Miki City continues its activities to honor Miki Castle and Bessho Nagaharu as a source of local pride, making them a core element of community development through history.
Legends and Anecdotes about Miki Castle
The Character of Bessho Nagaharu
Bessho Nagaharu inherited the family headship at a young age and rose to prominence as a powerful daimyo in Harima Province. Initially, he followed Oda Nobunaga and assisted Hashiba Hideyoshi in his conquest of Harima, but for various reasons, he rebelled.
Nagaharu was also known as a highly cultured warrior, and it is said that he was well-versed in waka poetry and the tea ceremony. He is remembered as a man who upheld the aesthetics of a samurai, ultimately committing suicide to save the lives of his soldiers.
The Tragedy of the Siege
Many tragedies occurred during the siege, which lasted for 1 year and 10 months. With food supplies running out, many people starved to death inside the castle, and it is said that the number reached several thousand.
The castle defenders continued to resist to the end, but records show that far more died from starvation than from fighting. This tragic situation is the origin of the name “Miki’s Starvation Siege.”
Hideyoshi’s Strategy
In his siege of Miki Castle, Hashiba Hideyoshi avoided a direct assault and opted for a siege by starvation. This was a rational decision to minimize his own losses while ensuring victory.
With meticulous preparation, Hideyoshi implemented a phased strategy of cutting off supply lines, capturing subsidiary castles, and constructing auxiliary forts, ultimately forcing Miki Castle to surrender. This experience is believed to have had a significant influence on Hideyoshi’s later strategies.
Current Status and Challenges of Miki Castle Research
Results of Archaeological Excavations
Multiple archaeological excavations have been conducted at the Miki Castle site, yielding new insights into the castle’s structure and history. In particular, excavations around the main keep have unearthed building remains, well remains, and artifacts such as pottery, advancing the understanding of the castle’s true nature.
Investigations of the auxiliary castle ruins are progressing, and the specific structure of Hideyoshi’s siege network is gradually becoming clearer.
Historical Research
While the Battle of Miki is described in historical documents such as the “Shinchō Kōki” and “Taikōki,” many details of the battle remain unclear. In recent years, research into ancient documents remaining in the region has progressed, and it is hoped that new historical facts will be revealed.
Future Challenges
The preservation and utilization of the Miki Castle ruins are important challenges for the future. It is necessary to maintain its value as a historical site while also functioning as a park that is familiar to citizens.
Furthermore, the preservation of the auxiliary castle ruins is also a challenge. How to protect and utilize the widely dispersed ruins is a problem that the entire region must address.
Utilization as a tourist resource is also expected, and the promotion of historical tourism centered on Miki Castle is being considered.
Summary
Miki Castle flourished as one of the three great castles of Harima and was an important stage in the Sengoku period. The Battle of Miki, fought between Bessho Nagaharu and Hashiba Hideyoshi, particularly the brutal siege known as the “Starvation of Miki,” is remembered as a noteworthy event in the history of Japanese castles.
Today, the Miki Castle ruins are preserved as a national historical site and serve as a place of recreation for citizens. The remains, such as earthworks and wells, and the surrounding fortifications, are valuable historical materials that convey the realities of siege warfare during the Sengoku period.
Learning the history of Miki Castle leads to an understanding of the situation in Harima Province during the Sengoku period, Hashiba Hideyoshi’s path to unifying Japan, and the lives of the Sengoku warlords. When visiting Hyogo Prefecture, why not visit these historical castle ruins and experience the atmosphere of yesteryear?
