Complete Guide to Sagawa Castle (Kochi Prefecture) | Thorough Explanation of History, Highlights, and Access
What is Sagawa Castle?
Sagawa Castle is a mountain castle located in Sagawa-cho, Takaoka-gun, Kochi Prefecture, and was one of the important strongholds in Tosa Province. Built on a mountain approximately 180 meters above sea level and 90 meters above ground level, the castle functioned as the political and military center of the Sagawa region from the time of the Chosokabe clan to the time of the Yamauchi clan.
Currently, it is maintained as Makino Park, and remains such as the main keep and stone walls remain, making it a valuable historical site for understanding the history of castles in Tosa. Located overlooking the town of Sagawa, its strategic importance at the time can still be felt today.
History of Sagawa Castle
Construction History and Hisatake Kuranosuke
Sagawa Castle is believed to have been built around 1573 (Tensho 1). The builder was Hisatake Kuranosuke (Hisatake Chikayoshi), a senior retainer of Chosokabe Motochika. In 1571, when Nakamura Echizen-no-kami Nobuyoshi, the lord of Matsuo Castle, surrendered to Chōsokabe Motochika, Motochika appointed his senior retainer, Hisatake Kuranosuke, as the new lord of Matsuo Castle. However, Hisatake Kuranosuke disliked the castle’s greatest weakness—the lack of water—and decided to build a new castle on the opposite mountain. This marked the beginning of Sagawa Castle.
Hisatake Kuranosuke was a particularly trusted general within the Chōsokabe clan and played a crucial role in the unification of Tosa Province. Sagawa Castle functioned as a base for the Chōsokabe clan’s western control, contributing to the expansion of their power in Tosa Province.
Sagawa Castle during the Chōsokabe Clan Era
During the time of Chōsokabe Motochika, Sagawa Castle was positioned as an important branch castle in western Tosa Province. Hisatake Kuranosuke governed the surrounding area from Sagawa Castle, supporting the Chōsokabe clan’s unification of Shikoku.
Hisatake Kuranosuke was a particularly trusted general within the Chōsokabe clan and played a vital role in the unification of Tosa Province. Within the castle grounds, multiple baileys were arranged around the main keep, and defensive structures such as earthworks and moats were constructed. Taking advantage of its characteristics as a mountain castle, features such as a series of ridged vertical moats were also incorporated, demonstrating ingenuity in preventing enemy intrusion.
Changes After the Battle of Sekigahara and the Entry of the Fukao Clan
In the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, the Chosokabe clan sided with the Western Army and suffered defeat, resulting in their confiscation of their domain. In their place, Yamauchi Kazutoyo entered Tosa Province, establishing the Tosa Domain.
Yamauchi Kazutoyo granted 10,000 koku to his senior retainer, Fukao Izumi-no-kami Shigeyoshi, making him the lord of Sagawa Castle. The Fukao clan continued as lords of Sagawa until the end of the Edo period. Fukao Shigeyoshi governed the Sagawa region from Sagawa Castle and also focused on developing the castle town.
During the time of the Fukao clan, the stone walls were renovated and the castle’s facilities were improved, giving it the appearance of a modern castle. Furthermore, samurai residences and merchant districts were formed in the castle town, laying the foundation for the development of Sagawa.
The Genna Edict of One Castle Per Province and Castle Abolition
In 1615 (Genna 1), the Edo shogunate issued the One Castle Per Province Edict. This ordered each domain to dismantle castles other than their primary residence, and in the Tosa domain, all castles except Kochi Castle were abolished.
Sagawa Castle was also abolished under this order, but the Fukao clan continued to govern Sagawa from their encampment. Although the castle’s military facilities were demolished, the Fukao clan’s residence and administrative functions remained, and Sagawa continued to prosper as the center of the Fukao clan’s territory.
Even after the castle’s abolition, Sagawa developed as a cultural center, and in 1772 (An’ei 1), the Fukao clan established their private school, “Meikyokan.” This educational institution produced many patriots who played active roles during the late Edo period and the Meiji Restoration.
Structure and Layout of Sagawa Castle
Characteristics as a Mountain Castle
Sagawa Castle is a typical mountain castle, with the main keep located on the mountaintop at an altitude of approximately 180 meters. The relative height from the foot of the mountain is about 90 meters, resulting in a highly defensible structure that skillfully utilizes the natural terrain.
The design incorporates features that make it difficult for enemy attacks, taking advantage of the steep terrain characteristic of mountain castles. The layout is characterized by its maximum use of the terrain, such as the placement of baileys along the ridges and natural moats utilizing valleys.
Arrangement of the Main Keep and Baileys
The main keep is located at the highest point of the castle and is surrounded by earthen ramparts. From the main keep, one can see a panoramic view of the town of Sagawa and the surrounding mountains, indicating its function as a military surveillance point.
Several baileys are arranged in a stepped pattern around the main keep, creating a multi-layered defensive structure. Each enclosure was demarcated by earthworks and moats, designed to function as an independent defensive unit.
Even today, a flat area remains at the site of the main keep, allowing us to confirm the former scale of the main enclosure. Parts of the surrounding earthworks also remain, allowing us to imagine the castle’s structure at the time.
Remains of Stone Walls
At Sagawa Castle, remains of stone walls can be found, mainly around the main keep. These stone walls are thought to have been renovated during the time of the Fukao clan, showing traces of development as a modern castle.
The stone walls were built using the nozurazumi technique, a simple construction utilizing natural stones. While the maximum height is only about 3 meters, they are valuable remains as an example of stone wall use in a mountain castle.
Currently, some parts of the stone walls have collapsed, but the remaining parts allow us to learn about the technology and structure of the time. These remains were preserved when the site was developed into Makino Park, allowing visitors to observe them up close.
Moats and Ridge-Shaped Vertical Moats
Sagawa Castle features multiple moats that cut across the ridge. These were important structures designed to block enemy incursions and enhance defensive capabilities.
Particularly noteworthy are the ridge-shaped vertical moats built on the slope. These defensive structures restricted the movement of enemy soldiers climbing the slope and made lateral movement difficult, a characteristic feature of mountain castles from the Sengoku period. The ridge-shaped vertical moats at Sagawa Castle are a valuable example of castle construction techniques from the Chosokabe clan era.
The moats and vertical moats remain clearly visible in the terrain today, providing important clues to understanding the defensive system of mountain castles.
Earthworks and Defensive Structures
Earthworks surround various parts of the castle, encircling the baileys. These earthworks protected against enemy arrows and firearms, and also served to block lines of sight.
The earthworks surrounding the main keep were particularly high, forming an important defensive line. Even today, earthworks approximately 2 meters high remain, allowing us to imagine the scale of the castle at the time.
Furthermore, the entrances (koguchi) featured ingenious designs such as staggered and square-shaped layouts, designed to prevent direct enemy advances. These defensive structures are important remains that demonstrate the development of castle construction technology from the Sengoku period to the early modern period.
Highlights of Sagawa Castle
Development as Makino Park
Currently, the Sagawa Castle ruins have been developed into Makino Park, a place of relaxation for local residents. The park is named after Dr. Tomitaro Makino, a botanist from Sagawa.
Walking paths are maintained within the park, making it relatively easy to climb to the main keep ruins. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom profusely, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery where the castle ruins and nature harmonize.
Information boards and explanatory signs are also installed, allowing visitors to learn about the castle’s history and structure while strolling through the park. Local residents are also engaged in preservation activities, striving to maintain and manage the remains.
View from the Main Enclosure
From the main enclosure, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the town of Sagawa. Below, the townscape of Sagawa unfolds, and in the distance, you can see the mountains of Tosa. This view makes you appreciate the importance of the castle’s surveillance function.
On a clear day, you can understand the extent of the former castle town and the geographical relationships of the surrounding area. This view helps you understand why the Chosokabe and Fukao clans considered this area important.
Remains of Stone Walls and Earthworks
The stone walls remaining around the main enclosure are one of the highlights of Sagawa Castle. These simple, rough-hewn stone walls are valuable remains that convey the technology of the early modern period.
The earthworks also remain in good condition, allowing you to clearly see the shape of the enclosures. By observing these remains, you can understand the castle structure and defensive mechanisms of the time.
Observing Moats and Vertical Ditches
Along the walking path around the castle ruins, you can observe moats and vertical ditches. In particular, the ridged vertical ditches remain clearly visible on the slope, making them important remains for understanding the characteristics of mountain castles from the Sengoku period.
These defensive structures are difficult to understand from textbooks and documents alone, but observing them in person allows you to truly appreciate their function and effectiveness.
Surrounding Historical Buildings
Surrounding the Sakawa Castle ruins are numerous historical sites associated with the Fukao clan. The Meikyokan ruins, in particular, are an important historical site that tells the history of education in Sakawa.
Furthermore, the townscape of Sakawa retains samurai residences and old merchant houses, preserving the atmosphere of a castle town. Exploring these areas in conjunction with the castle ruins will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of Sakawa’s history.
Sakawa town also boasts a giant camphor tree known as the “Great Camphor Tree of Sakawa,” which is protected as a natural monument. This camphor tree, estimated to be several hundred years old, can be considered a living witness that has watched over the history of Sagawa Castle.
Access and Visiting Information
Location
Sagawa Castle Ruins (Makino Park) are located in Ko, Sagawa-cho, Takaoka-gun, Kochi Prefecture. It is within walking distance of JR Sagawa Station, making access relatively easy.
Access by Train
Get off at JR Dosan Line “Sagawa Station” and walk for approximately 15 minutes to reach the entrance of Makino Park. From the station to the castle ruins, there are both flat and uphill paths, and a further 10-15 minute climb is required to reach the main keep.
From Kochi Station to Sagawa Station, it takes approximately 40 minutes by local train and approximately 20 minutes by express train.
Access by Car
It takes approximately 30 minutes from the Kochi Expressway “Ino IC” via National Route 33. Parking is available around Makino Park and is free of charge. From the parking lot, it is necessary to climb uphill to the main keep ruins.
From Kochi City, take National Route 33 west and you will arrive in about 40 minutes.
Parking Information
There is a free parking lot at the foot of Makino Park. There is space for several regular cars, and it is usually relatively spacious outside of peak tourist season. However, it can get full during busy times such as cherry blossom season, so we recommend visiting early.
Visiting Hours and Precautions
Makino Park is always open and you can visit freely. However, as it is a mountain castle, please note the following:
- The hiking trail is well-maintained, but we recommend wearing comfortable shoes such as athletic shoes.
- Be careful as the ground can be slippery during and after rain.
- Take precautions against insects in the summer and warm clothing in the winter.
- We recommend preparing drinking water in advance.
- Allow 30-40 minutes for a round trip to the main keep.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Besides the Sagawa Castle Ruins, there are other sights to see in Sagawa Town.
Meikyokan Site: This is the site of an educational institution founded by the Fukao clan, and it tells the history of education in Sagawa.
Sagawa Town Aoyama Library: This library exhibits materials related to Sagawa and historical documents concerning the Fukao clan.
Tsukasa Botan Sake Brewery: This is the brewery of “Tsukasa Botan,” a famous sake from Tosa. Tours and tastings are available (reservations required).
Makino Tomitaro Hometown Museum: This facility introduces the achievements of Dr. Makino Tomitaro, a botanist from Sagawa.
Visiting these facilities together will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of Sagawa’s history and culture.
Sagawa Castle and the Cultural Heritage of the Fukao Clan
Meikyokan and the Tradition of Education
As the lord of Sagawa, the Fukao clan not only focused on military rule but also on promoting culture and education. The Meikyokan, founded in 1772, is a symbolic example of this.
The Meikyokan school provided education centered on Confucianism and produced many outstanding individuals. During the late Edo period, those who studied at this institution went on to play active roles as patriots in the Meiji Restoration.
It can be said that the emergence of figures who contributed to the formation of modern Japan, such as Tanaka Mitsuaki (a patriot of the Tosa Royalist Party, later Minister of the Imperial Household) and Kataoka Kenkichi (a leader of the Freedom and People’s Rights Movement), from Sagawa was due to the educational tradition established by the Fukao family.
Preservation of Sagawa’s Townscape
The castle town of Sagawa still preserves its Edo-period atmosphere. Historical buildings such as samurai residences with earthen walls and white-walled merchant houses are scattered throughout, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the past.
These buildings are valuable cultural heritage that convey the structure of the castle town formed during the time of the Fukao family. Sagawa town is working to preserve its townscape and maintain its historical landscape.
Sagawa Castle and Surrounding Castles
Relationship with Matsuo Castle
When discussing Sagawa Castle, its relationship with Matsuo Castle is essential. As mentioned earlier, Hisatake Kuranosuke built Sagawa Castle because he disliked the water shortage at Matsuo Castle.
Matsuo Castle is located approximately 2 kilometers northeast of Sagawa Castle, and the two castles are situated facing each other. The relocation from Matsuo Castle to Sagawa Castle was not simply a change of residence, but a strategic decision seeking a more advantageous location.
Currently, remains of Matsuo Castle still exist, and visiting both Sagawa Castle and Matsuo Castle allows for a deeper understanding of the Chosokabe clan’s castle strategy.
Tosa Province’s Castle Network
Sagawa Castle functioned as part of a castle network in Tosa Province. During the Chosokabe clan’s era, branch castles such as Sagawa Castle, Aki Castle, and Nakamura Castle were strategically located around Okotoyo Castle (the main castle).
During the Yamauchi clan’s rule, the Tosa Domain’s administrative structure was established with Kochi Castle at its center, with the Fukao clan stationed in Sagawa, the Goto clan in Aki, and a branch of the Yamauchi clan in Nakamura. Sagawa Castle played a crucial role as a base in the western region.
Summary
Sagawa Castle is an important fortress embodying the history of Tosa, from the Chosokabe clan to the Yamauchi clan. From its construction by Hisatake Kuranosuke, its development as the residence of the Fukao clan, to its abandonment under the Genna One Castle Per Province decree, it played a significant role in the history of Tosa Province, albeit for a relatively short period of about 50 years.
Currently, it is maintained as Makino Park, and the remains of the main keep, stone walls, earthworks, and moats are well preserved. As a mountain castle at an altitude of approximately 180 meters and a relative height of approximately 90 meters, it is a valuable historical site that conveys castle construction techniques from the Sengoku period to the early modern period.
A visit to the ruins of Sagawa Castle offers a multifaceted history, encompassing the history of Tosa, the expansion of the Chosokabe clan’s power, the Yamauchi clan’s rule over Tosa, and the cultural heritage built by the Fukao clan. It’s a historical site you should definitely visit when you’re in Kochi Prefecture.
Enjoying the view from the castle ruins while reflecting on the thoughts of the warlords who once ruled this land will surely evoke a sense of historical romance. Combine this with a stroll through the town of Sagawa and enjoy a journey to experience the history of Tosa.
