Tsurumaki Castle (Chiba Prefecture) Complete Guide: From Castle Lord’s Residence to Domain Office, the History of the Mizuno Family and Current Remains
What is Tsurumaki Castle?: Residence or Castle? A Unique Origin
Tsurumaki Castle (Tsurumaki-jo) was the domain office of the late Edo period, located in Shiizu, Ichihara City, Chiba Prefecture. Officially known as “Tsurumaki Jinya” (Tsurumaki Residence), it has a unique history, having been renamed “Tsurumaki Castle” to commemorate the Mizuno family’s promotion to castle lord status.
Currently, the castle site is occupied by Ichihara Municipal Anesaki Elementary School, and very few of the original buildings or remains remain. However, a stone monument marking the “Tsurumaki Domain Office Site” and a castle site marker stand at the main gate, reminding us that this area was once the center of a domain in Kazusa Province.
The Difference Between a Residence and a Castle
In the Edo period, there was a clear distinction between “Jinya” (residence) and “castle.” Generally, structures with full-fledged defensive features such as keeps and stone walls were called castles, while simpler administrative facilities of feudal domains without such features were called jinya (fortified residences). However, in the case of Tsurumaki, although it was a facility of jinya size, the feudal lord was granted the special status of “castle lord,” thus allowing it to be called a “castle.”
Such examples are rare nationwide and contribute to the historical value of Tsurumaki Castle.
The Establishment of the Tsurumaki Domain and the History of the Mizuno Family
The Genealogy of the Mizuno Family and Transfer to the Kanto Region
The Mizuno family, who ruled the Tsurumaki Domain, branched off from the lineage of Mizuno Tadakiyo, the fourth son of Mizuno Tadashige, a warlord of the Sengoku period. The Mizuno family is a prestigious family known as the family of Oda-no-kata, the mother of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and had deep ties to the Tokugawa family.
The direct origins of the Tsurumaki Domain date back to 1825 (Bunsei 8). At that time, Mizuno Tadatsugu, the lord of Numazu Domain in Suruga Province, was granted permission by the shogunate to be promoted to the rank of castle lord. Along with this, he was granted territory in Ichihara and Moda districts of Kazusa Province (present-day Sodegaura and Kisarazu cities), and he built a fortified residence in Tsurumaki as the new domain’s administrative center.
Background to the Establishment of Tsurumaki Domain
Mizuno Tadatsugu’s promotion to castle lord was based on the Mizuno family’s achievements and trust within the shogunate. In the late Edo period, the shogunate adopted a policy of strengthening the defense and governance of the area around Edo by placing powerful fudai daimyo (hereditary vassals) in the Kanto region. The establishment of Tsurumaki Domain can be understood in this context.
The domain’s assessed yield was approximately 20,000 koku, and it governed a wide area spanning Ichihara and Moda districts. This region was a relatively fertile agricultural area within Kazusa Province, forming the domain’s financial base.
Mizuno Tadatsugu and Successive Lords
First Lord: Mizuno Tadatsugu
Mizuno Tadatsugu, as the first lord of the Tsurumaki Domain, laid the foundation for the domain’s administration. His promotion to castle lord status was a great honor for the Mizuno family, and in commemoration of this, Tadatsugu named the new domain office “Tsurumaki Castle.”
During Tadatsugu’s reign, the Tsurumaki Domain reorganized its administrative structure and promoted land surveys and new land development within its territory. Furthermore, due to its relatively close proximity to Edo, it established a system that allowed for swift responses to the shogunate’s orders.
Second Lord: Mizuno Tadazane
Mizuno Tadazane succeeded Tadatsugu. During Tadazane’s time, he strived to stabilize the domain’s finances while responding to the shogunate’s policies, such as the Tenpo Reforms. However, the nationwide economic difficulties of the late Edo period affected the Tsurumaki Domain as well, and it is said that he struggled with financial management.
Lord of the Domain in the Late Edo Period: Mizuno Tadazumi
The lord of the Tsurumaki Domain during the late Edo period was Mizuno Tadazumi. During Tadazumi’s time, Japan faced the opening of the country and the turbulent period of the late Edo period. The Tsurumaki Domain also became involved in the Boshin War on the side of the shogunate, but as a small domain, it did not participate in major battles and relatively peacefully welcomed the Meiji Restoration.
In 1869 (Meiji 2), with the return of the domains to the emperor, Tadazumi was appointed as the domain governor. However, with the abolition of the feudal domains and establishment of prefectures in 1871 (Meiji 4), the Tsurumaki Domain was abolished, bringing its approximately 46-year history to an end.
Structure and Scale of Tsurumaki Castle
Structure as a Jinya (Fortified Residence)
As mentioned above, Tsurumaki Castle was essentially a facility on the scale of a Jinya. It is believed that no main keep or full-fledged stone walls were built, and it had a relatively simple structure surrounded by a moat and earthen ramparts.
At the center of the jinya (fortified residence) was the lord’s residence, the Goten, surrounded by administrative offices and samurai quarters. While detailed records of the site are unavailable, it is believed that the current Anesaki Elementary School site roughly corresponds to the jinya’s location.
Defensive Structures
As a jinya from the late Edo period, it lacked full-fledged defensive structures designed for combat. However, it is presumed that some moats and earthworks existed to demonstrate its status as the domain’s administrative center. Furthermore, gates and walls demarcated the site, maintaining its status as the central hub of the domain.
Formation of a Castle Town
A small castle town developed around Tsurumaki Castle. Samurai residences and merchant shops lined the streets, functioning as the political and economic center of the region. However, it is thought to have retained more of the characteristics of a jinya town than a large-scale castle town.
Changes Since the Meiji Era and the Current State
Abolition of the Feudal Domain and Dismantling of the Jinya (Fortified Residence)
With the abolition of the feudal domain in 1871 (Meiji 4), the Tsurumaki Domain was abolished, and Tsurumaki Castle (Jinya) ceased to serve its purpose. The domain’s administrative buildings were demolished, and the land was either sold to private individuals or used for public facilities.
Amidst the wave of modernization in the Meiji era, many castles and Jinya were dismantled, and Tsurumaki Castle was no exception. It is said that the building materials were repurposed for the construction of surrounding houses and temples.
Conversion to School Grounds
The land of Tsurumaki Castle was utilized as an educational facility during the Meiji era. The school that would become the current Ichihara Municipal Anesaki Elementary School was established on this site.
While the land was preserved through its use as an educational site, the construction of school buildings and the development of the school grounds resulted in the loss of most of the castle’s remains. Currently, no remains can be confirmed on the surface of the ground.
Installation of Monuments and Markers
To pass on the history of the castle site to future generations, a stone monument marking the “Tsurumaki Domain Office Site” and a castle site marker have been erected near the main gate of Anesaki Elementary School. These monuments serve as valuable educational materials for learning about local history, providing elementary school students with an opportunity to learn about their local area.
The monument is inscribed with the history of the Tsurumaki Domain and the achievements of the Mizuno family, making it an important resource for castle enthusiasts and history researchers visiting the site.
Historical Significance of Tsurumaki Castle
Position in the History of Domain Administration in the Late Edo Period
The Tsurumaki Domain was a relatively new domain established in the late Edo period, and its establishment process is important for understanding the shogunate’s policies for governing the Kanto region. The case of the Mizuno family, who received the honor of being promoted to the status of castle lord, is a valuable resource for examining the relationship between the shogunate and the fudai daimyo, and the social class system of the Edo period.
Uniqueness in Chiba Prefecture’s Castle History
While Chiba Prefecture boasts numerous mountain castles from the Sengoku period and medieval residences, newly constructed domain offices from the late Edo period are rare. Tsurumaki Castle is an important historical site that offers a different perspective on the history of castles in Chiba Prefecture.
Compared to other castles in Kazusa Province, such as Otaki Castle and Kururi Castle, Tsurumaki Castle was smaller in scale and had a shorter period of existence. However, precisely because of this, it is a valuable example for understanding the realities of small domains in the late Edo period.
An Example of the “Castle Lord Status” System
The Edo Shogunate had a complex system of social status, and “Castle Lord Status” was one of them. Even daimyo who did not actually possess a castle, or only had facilities like a fortified residence, could receive “Castle Lord Status” treatment due to special achievements or family status. The Mizuno family of Tsurumaki Domain is a typical example and an important case for concretely understanding this system.
Access and Visitor Guide to Tsurumaki Castle
Location and Transportation
Address: Tsurumaki, Shiizu, Ichihara City, Chiba Prefecture (within Ichihara Municipal Anesaki Elementary School)
Access by Train:
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Uchibo Line “Anesaki Station”
- Anesaki Station is approximately 30 minutes from Chiba Station on the Uchibo Line
Access by Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from Tateyama Expressway “Ichihara IC”
- There is no parking available for general visitors as it is a school facility. We recommend using nearby coin-operated parking lots or public transportation.
Notes for Visitors
The Tsurumaki Castle ruins are currently located on the grounds of Ichihara Municipal Anesaki Elementary School, so please be careful when visiting.
- As this is school grounds, please refrain from entering without permission during class hours.
- The castle site marker and monument are located near the main gate and can be seen from outside the school gate.
- If you wish to tour the grounds, we recommend obtaining permission from the school in advance.
- The school gate may be closed on weekends, holidays, and school holidays.
- Please prioritize the safety of the children and educational activities, and observe proper etiquette during your visit.
Points to Note During Your Visit
Although very few remains are left, you can experience history at the following points:
- Castle Site Marker and Monument: A monument located near the main gate, inscribed with the history of the Tsurumaki Domain.
- Surrounding Topography: The micro-topography around the school allows you to imagine the extent of the former encampment.
- Place Name: The place name “Tsurumaki” still remains, conveying traces of history.
Regarding Photography
Photography on school grounds must be done with consideration for the privacy and safety of the children. Photography of castle site markers and monuments is permitted, but please be careful not to include children or school facilities in your photos.
Nearby Attractions and Related Historical Sites
Castle Ruins in Ichihara City
When visiting Tsurumaki Castle, visiting other castle ruins in Ichihara City will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history.
Tsurumai Castle: A medieval castle located in Tsurumai, Ichihara City, with some remnants from the Sengoku period remaining. Although from a different era than Tsurumaki Castle, it is important for understanding the castle history of Ichihara City.
Shiizu Castle: A medieval mountain castle located near Tsurumaki Castle, which played an important role in the Sengoku period history of the Boso Peninsula.
Other Castles in Kazusa Province
Many castle ruins remain in Chiba Prefecture, especially in Kazusa Province.
Otaki Castle: A representative castle of Kazusa Province, known for being built by Honda Tadakatsu. A reconstructed keep has been built and it is now open to the public as a museum. Comparing it to Tsurumaki Castle, you can really see the difference between a daimyo castle and a small domain’s encampment.
Kururi Castle: A mountain castle in Kazusa Province, it was an important base from the Sengoku period to the Edo period. A reconstructed keep still stands today, and it is maintained as a castle park.
Historical Facilities in Ichihara City
Ichihara City Archaeological Research Center: A facility exhibiting the history and archaeological materials of Ichihara City, including materials related to the Tsurumaki Domain.
Anezaki Shrine: An ancient shrine located near the Tsurumaki Castle ruins, it has deep ties to the local history.
Tsurumaki Domain and Local Community
Domain Administration and the Lives of its People
Although the Tsurumaki Domain was a small domain, it governed the farming villages within its territory, collecting land tax and maintaining public order. Ichihara and Moda districts in Kazusa Province were blessed with a relatively mild climate and fertile land, and agriculture, mainly rice cultivation, was practiced there.
The domain’s finances primarily depended on rice tax, but the economic fluctuations of the late Edo period presented difficulties in managing its finances. However, its small size allowed for agile administration and closer ties with its people.
Culture and Education
It is presumed that the Tsurumaki domain had a domain school for the education of the children of samurai, but detailed records do not exist. In the late Edo period, education became increasingly important in all domains, and even small domains saw an increase in the establishment of domain schools and local schools.
Furthermore, the Mizuno family was also interested in cultural activities and is said to have promoted Confucianism and martial arts.
Trends during the Late Edo and Meiji Restoration Periods
During the late Edo period, the Tsurumaki domain, despite being a small domain, acted on the side of the shogunate. However, it did not participate in large-scale military actions and did not suffer significant damage during the Boshin War.
After the Meiji Restoration, Mizuno Tadazumi, who became the domain governor, showed a cooperative attitude towards the new government’s policies, facilitating the smooth abolition of the domains and the establishment of prefectures. Therefore, the Tsurumaki Domain was not designated an “enemy of the court” during the Boshin War, and transitioned to the Meiji era relatively peacefully.
Current Status and Challenges of Tsurumaki Castle Research
Status of Historical Materials
Historical materials concerning the Tsurumaki Domain and Tsurumaki Castle are limited compared to other major domains. While some official domain records, such as the domain history and diaries, remain, many aspects of the detailed castle structure and daily domain administration remain unclear.
While the general history of the domain is known from the Mizuno family genealogy and shogunate records, further research is needed regarding the specific architectural style and layout of the castle.
Possibility of Archaeological Investigation
Currently, the Tsurumaki Castle site is school grounds, making full-scale excavation difficult. However, when school buildings are rebuilt in the future, pre-excavation could potentially yield new insights.
There is a possibility that remains from the time of the jinya (fortified residence) remain underground, and traces of moats and earthworks, building foundations, and artifacts such as ceramics and roof tiles may be discovered.
Significance in Local History Research
Research on the Tsurumaki Domain is important for understanding the realities of small domains in the late Edo period. While research on large domains is advanced, many aspects of the daily administration and relationship with the people of small domains remain unclear.
It is hoped that the case study of the Tsurumaki Domain will allow us to approach the true picture of local communities in the Edo period.
Efforts toward Preservation and Utilization
Utilization in Local History Education
At Ichihara Municipal Anesaki Elementary School, opportunities to learn about the history of Tsurumaki Castle are provided as part of local history education. Children learn that the land on which their school stands was once the center of the domain, deepening their attachment to the region and their interest in history.
Cultural Property Protection in Ichihara City
Ichihara City is working on the protection and utilization of historical heritage within the city, including the Tsurumaki Castle ruins. Maintenance of castle site markers and monuments, collection and preservation of historical materials, and dissemination of information to citizens are all carried out.
Information Dissemination by Castle Enthusiasts
In recent years, information dissemination by castle enthusiasts and history fans has become more active. Websites such as Kojodan (Castle Attack Group) share records and photographs of people who have visited Tsurumaki Castle, increasing interest in this lesser-known castle site.
These activities have the effect of stimulating interest in local historical heritage and increasing momentum for preservation.
Summary: A Big History Etched in a Small Castle
Tsurumaki Castle, though small in scale and having a short existence of approximately 46 years, is a valuable historical site for understanding the history of the domain administration in the late Edo period, the regional history of Chiba Prefecture, and the Edo shogunate’s hierarchical system of “castle lords.”
Although very few remains today, the castle site markers and monuments quietly convey its history. It can also be said that it continues to contribute to the local community in a new way by becoming an educational institution, Ichihara Municipal Anesaki Elementary School. When visiting Chiba Prefecture, or when touring the castles of Kazusa Province, be sure to visit the ruins of Tsurumaki Castle. While it lacks a large keep or stone walls, it holds the history of a small domain in the late Edo period and the lives of the local people.
History isn’t always composed solely of major events and famous figures. By carefully tracing the history of small castles like Tsurumaki Castle, we can gain a richer and more diverse understanding of Japanese history.
