Owari Matsukura Castle (Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Remains, and Access Details
What is Owari Matsukura Castle?
Owari Matsukura Castle was a flatland castle from the Sengoku period located in Haguri District, Owari Province (later Haguri District, Mino Province), present-day Kawashima Matsukura-cho, Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture. Situated on the right bank of the Kiso River, it played an important role as a key point for water transport.
Because there are several castles with the same name, Matsukura Castle, throughout Japan, it is commonly referred to as “Owari Matsukura Castle.” It is a different castle from Matsukura Castle in Etchu Province (Uozu City, Toyama Prefecture) and Matsukura Castle in Hida Province (Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture), so care should be taken not to confuse them.
Owari Matsukura Castle is known as a base for the Kawanami-shu, a group of local lords in the Kiso River basin, and played an important role in Oda Nobunaga’s unification of Japan. It is particularly famous for its role as a timber transport base during the construction of Sumata Castle. ## Basic Castle Information
Location and Geographical Characteristics
Location: Around 2232-1 Kawashima Matsukura-cho, Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture
Former Province: Haguri District, Owari Province (later Haguri District, Mino Province)
Classification/Structure: Flatland Castle
Elevation: Approximately 15 meters (on the river terrace of the Kiso River)
Owari Matsukura Castle was built on a slightly elevated area on the right bank of the Kiso River. Its location, which allowed access to the Kiso River’s water transport, provided ideal conditions for a timber collection and processing center. The Kiso River flowed to the north of the castle, and it is thought to have served as a natural moat.
Details of the Castle Structure
Keep Structure: Unknown (No records)
Builder: Togashi Yorishige (Tsubouchi Yorishige)
Year of Construction: Tenbun 1 (1532)
Main Renovators: Oda Nobuhide, Tsubouchi Toshisada
Main Lords: Tsubouchi clan, Maeno clan (castle lord)
Year of Abandonment: Keicho 5 (1600)
Remains: Vanished
Designated Cultural Property: None
Reconstructed Structures: Only an explanatory sign
Owari Matsukura Castle, built as a flatland castle, is presumed to have been a castle with a strong residential character, rather than a large-scale castle with complex stone walls and moats. Although detailed layout maps do not remain, it is thought to have been a practical castle that managed water transport on the Kiso River and functioned as the base of the Kawanami-shu (river transport group).
History of Owari Matsukura Castle
Construction History and the Togashi Clan
In 1532 (Tenbun 1), Togashi Yorishige, the legitimate heir of the Togashi clan, the shugo (military governor) of Echizen Province, began serving Oda Nobuyasu (uncle of Oda Nobunaga), the lord of Inuyama Castle, and was granted Matsukura in Haguri District, Owari Province, as his territory. Owari Matsukura Castle was built at this time.
The Togashi clan were shugo daimyo of Kaga Province (present-day Ishikawa Prefecture), but had lost power after being defeated in a conflict with the Ikkō-ikki. Around this time, Yorishige began using the Tsubouchi surname, and thereafter, the Tsubouchi clan built their power in Owari Province.
The Tsubouchi Clan and the Kawanami-shū
The Tsubouchi clan became a central figure in the “Kawanami-shū,” a group of local powerful families in the Kiso River basin. The Kawanami-shu were a group that controlled the water transport on the Kiso River and made their living from logging, transporting, and processing timber. Their economic power and organizational strength were highly valued by Sengoku-period daimyo (feudal lords).
The Kawanami-shu included many individuals who later served as retainers of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, such as Hachisuka Koroku (Hachisuka Masakatsu), Maeno Nagayasu, and Aoyama Yozaemon. The Tsubouchi clan, acting as a leader for these Kawanami-shu, deepened their relationship with the Oda family.
Renovations by Oda Nobuhide
Oda Nobuhide, the father of Oda Nobunaga, aimed to unify Owari Province and expand into Mino Province. Controlling the Kiso River basin was crucial for conquering Mino, and Nobuhide valued Matsukura Castle and undertook renovations.
During this period, the Tsubouchi clan served as important retainers of Oda Nobuhide, managing the Kiso River’s water transport and serving as a military base. Matsukura Castle was not merely a residence; it also came to function as a supply base during the Oda clan’s invasion of Mino Province.
Legend of the Construction of Sunomata Castle and Timber Transportation
The most famous legend concerning Owari Matsukura Castle is the episode of the construction of Sunomata Castle in 1566. When Oda Nobunaga built a castle overnight in Sunomata as a base for his conquest of Mino, Matsukura Castle is said to have played a crucial role in procuring and transporting the timber needed for its construction.
According to legend, timber felled in the Kiso Mountains was floated down the Kiso River, unloaded at Matsukura Castle for processing, and then floated back down the river to Sunomata. This operation was directed by the Tsubouchi clan and the Kawanami-shu (river transport group).
While the historical accuracy of this legend is debated, it is undeniable that the Tsubouchi clan and the Kawanami-shu, who controlled the Kiso River’s water transport, provided crucial logistical support during Oda Nobunaga’s conquest of Mino Province.
Maeda Toshiie’s Stay
A legend remains that in 1569, when Maeda Toshiie was suspended from service by Oda Nobunaga, he stayed at Matsukura Castle. Maeda Toshiie was the fourth son of Maeda Toshimasa, a senior retainer of the Oda family, and in his youth, he was a brave warrior known as “Mataza of the Spear.”
It is said that when Toshiie incurred Nobunaga’s wrath and was suspended from service after killing a colleague in a dispute, he sought refuge at Matsukura Castle, which had ties to the Kawanami-shu. It is possible that his interactions with people from the Kawanami-shu, such as Maeno Nagayasu, during this period influenced the formation of Toshiie’s later network of connections.
The Development of the Tsubouchi Clan and the Maeno Clan as Castle Lords
The Tsubouchi clan was highly valued during the time of Oda Nobunaga, leading the Kawanami-shu (river patrol) in various battles. Tsubouchi Toshisada, in particular, served as a senior retainer of the Oda family and was entrusted with the management of Matsukura Castle.
It is believed that the Maeno clan entered Matsukura Castle as castle lords. Maeno Nagayasu worked alongside the Tsubouchi clan as a member of the Kawanami-shu, and later became a daimyo with a 50,000 koku domain in Izushi, Tajima Province, as a retainer of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. While the exact period of the Maeno clan’s service as castle lords is unclear, this is an example demonstrating the close relationship between the Tsubouchi and Maeno clans.
The Battle of Sekigahara and the Abandonment of the Castle
In 1600 (Keicho 5), the Tsubouchi clan participated in the Battle of Sekigahara on the side of Tokugawa Ieyasu’s Eastern Army. Tsubouchi Toshisada commanded the musketeer unit and distinguished himself in battle.
After the war, the Tsubouchi clan was granted 6,500 koku of land in Haguri and Kakami districts of Mino Province as hatamoto (direct retainers) of the Tokugawa family. However, they moved their base from Matsukura Castle to Shinkano Jinya (present-day Gifu City), resulting in the abandonment of Matsukura Castle.
The Tsubouchi clan, based at Shinkano Jinya, continued as hatamoto until the Meiji Restoration, serving the Tokugawa family throughout the Edo period.
Current Status of Owari Matsukura Castle Site
Current State of Remains
Currently, the remains of Owari Matsukura Castle have completely disappeared, with no traces of moats, earthworks, or buildings remaining. The castle site has been developed into residential and agricultural land, making it difficult to imagine its former appearance.
Because it was a flatland castle and was abandoned in the early Edo period, more than 400 years have passed since then, the disappearance of the remains was unavoidable. No archaeological excavations have been conducted, and the detailed structure of the castle remains unknown.
Location of the Information Board
An information board explaining Owari Matsukura Castle is located along the Kiso River embankment south of the Kakamigahara Bridge. This board is currently the only marker indicating the existence of the castle ruins.
The board provides a brief explanation of the castle’s history, the Tsubouchi clan, and the Kawanami-shu, allowing visitors to learn an overview of Owari Matsukura Castle. However, the exact location of the actual castle ruins has not been determined, and the board’s location is considered to be near the estimated site.
Surrounding Historical Environment
The Kiso River flows around the Matsukura Castle ruins, and Inuyama Castle can be seen in the distance on the opposite bank. This is a place where you can experience the geographical environment of the Sengoku period, when water transport on the Kiso River was crucial.
The Kawashima district of Kakamigahara City is an area spread across the river terrace of the Kiso River and has flourished since ancient times as a key point for water transport. Currently, it is a quiet area with a mix of residential and agricultural land, but it was once a historical stage where the Kawanami-shu were active.
Nearby, there are riverside parks and cycling paths along the Kiso River, allowing you to enjoy nature in conjunction with historical walks.
Transportation and Access
Access by Public Transportation
Nearest Bus Stop: Kakamigahara City Fureai Bus Kawashima Line “Sports Park Mae” bus stop
Travel Time from Bus Stop: Approximately 8 minutes on foot
The Kakamigahara City Fureai Bus is a community bus operated by Kakamigahara City, providing access to the Kawashima area from JR Gifu Station and Meitetsu Kakamigahara Line stations. However, since the number of services is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Nearest Train Station: Meitetsu Kakamigahara Line “Kakamigahara City Hall Station” or “Shin-Kano Station”
Distance from Station: Approximately 5-6 kilometers
Since it is a distance from the train station, taking a taxi is convenient. It takes about 15 minutes by taxi from Kakamigahara City Hall Station or Shin-Kano Station.
Access by Car
Nearest Interchange: Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway, “Gifu-Kakamigahara Interchange”
Travel Time from IC: Approximately 20 minutes
From Gifu-Kakamigahara IC, take National Route 21, then head south on the prefectural road towards Kakamigahara Ohashi Bridge. An information board is located along the embankment on the south side after crossing Kakamigahara Ohashi Bridge.
Parking: There is no dedicated parking lot. Please be careful not to obstruct traffic when parking on the road. Consider using the parking lot at the nearby riverside park.
Car Navigation Settings
Address Setting: 2232-1 Kawashima Matsukura-cho, Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture
Coordinates: 35.370654°N, 136.851907°E
Setting the above address or coordinates in your car navigation system will guide you to the vicinity of the information board. However, please note that this is not the exact location of the castle ruins, but rather an estimated location.
Highlights and Points to Note When Visiting Owari Matsukura Castle
Historical Value
Owari Matsukura Castle has no remaining structures, so there are no notable features in terms of castle architecture. However, it is a castle site of extremely high historical value.
Base of the Kawanami-shu: As the base of operations for the Kawanami-shu, who controlled the water transport on the Kiso River, it was an important location that supported Oda Nobunaga’s unification of Japan economically and logistically.
Producer of Talent: It was the center of the Kawanami-shu network, which produced figures who later became daimyo, such as Hachisuka Koroku and Maeno Nagayasu.
Relationship with Maeda Toshiie: The legend that Maeda Toshiie stayed there is an interesting episode that shows the connection between the person who would become the founder of Kaga’s million-koku domain and Matsukura Castle.
How to Enjoy Your Visit
Estimated Time Required: Approximately 15 minutes if only viewing the information boards.
Since there are no remaining structures, the visit can be completed in a short time. The main way to enjoy this site is by reading the information boards and observing the surrounding terrain to imagine what it was like in the past.
Kiso River Landscape: While gazing at the majestic flow of the Kiso River and the scenery on the opposite bank, imagine the activities of the river transporters who carried timber.
Photography: Taking photos with the information boards and the Kiso River in the background is recommended. You can also include Inuyama Castle in the background.
Visiting Nearby Castle Ruins: Nearby are Inuyama Castle, Gifu Castle, and Kano Castle ruins. Visiting these in conjunction with this site will give you a deeper understanding of the Sengoku period history of Owari and Mino.
Visitor Reviews
Based on reviews from castle enthusiasts, the site receives a relatively low rating as a tourist attraction due to the lack of remaining structures (average rating around 2.00). However, it is a meaningful place to visit for those interested in the historical background and the activities of the river transporters.
Reviews include comments such as, “Although there are no remains, I was able to learn about the history from the information boards,” and “The scenery of the Kiso River was beautiful, and I felt a sense of historical romance.”
Nearby Related Spots
Inuyama Castle
Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers
Features: A famous castle with a nationally designated, existing keep.
This was the residence of Oda Nobuyasu, who served Togashi Yorishige, the builder of Owari Matsukura Castle. The beautiful keep, built along the Kiso River, is a must-see, and it is recommended to visit it in conjunction with a visit to Owari Matsukura Castle.
Gifu Castle (Inabayama Castle)
Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers
Features: A famous castle used by Oda Nobunaga as a base for unifying Japan.
Gifu Castle, built on the summit of Mt. Kinka, was seized by Oda Nobunaga from the Saito clan and used as a base for his “unification of Japan by military force.” The Kawanami clan also assisted Nobunaga in his conquest of Mino Province.
Sumomata One-Night Castle (Sumomata Castle Ruins)
Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers
Features: A legendary castle said to have been built overnight by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
At the Sumomata Castle ruins, where timber is said to have been transported from Owari Matsukura Castle, a replica castle tower, which also serves as a historical museum, now stands. It is an important spot for understanding the activities of the Kawanami-shu.
Shin-Kano Jinya Ruins
Distance: Approximately 12 kilometers
Features: Ruins of the Jinya (fortified residence) where the Tsubouchi clan relocated from Matsukura Castle.
This is the site of the Shin-Kano Jinya, where the Tsubouchi clan moved their base after the Battle of Sekigahara. Although it is now a residential area, you can trace the footsteps of the Tsubouchi clan during the Edo period.
Kakamigahara City Historical and Folk Museum
Distance: Approximately 3 kilometers
Features: A museum where you can learn about the history of Kakamigahara City
This museum exhibits the history and culture of Kakamigahara City and also houses materials related to Owari Matsukura Castle and the Kawanami-shu (river transport group). Visiting before your main visit will provide a deeper understanding.
Summary
Owari Matsukura Castle (Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture), although no remains exist, is an important historical site that tells the story of the Kiso River water transport and the activities of the Kawanami-shu during the Sengoku period. It was built in 1532 by Togashi Yorishige (Tsubouchi Yorishige), and the Tsubouchi clan served the Oda family as the center of the Kawanami-shu, supporting Oda Nobunaga’s unification of Japan.
Interesting historical stories remain, such as the legend of its use as a timber transport base during the construction of Sumomata Castle and the episode of Maeda Toshiie’s stay there. After the Battle of Sekigahara, the castle was abandoned in 1600, but the Tsubouchi family continued to exist as hatamoto (direct retainers of the shogun) until the Meiji era.
Currently, only an explanatory sign is installed on the embankment south of the Kakamigahara Bridge, but you can feel the historical romance of the Sengoku period along with the scenery of the Kiso River. Visiting this site along with other nearby castle ruins such as Inuyama Castle, Gifu Castle, and Sunomata Ichiyajo Castle will give you a deeper understanding of the Sengoku history of Owari and Mino provinces.
This historical site is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and those curious about the unique group known as the Kawanami-shu.
