Moriya Castle (Ibaraki Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Remains, and Access Information of the Legend of Taira no Masakado and the Soma Clan’s Castle
Located in Moriya City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Moriya Castle was a strategically important castle in Shimosa Province from the medieval period to the early modern era. Despite its convenient location, just a 20-minute walk from Moriya Station on the Tsukuba Express line, it has been developed into Moriya Castle Ruins Park, boasting well-preserved remains and attracting history enthusiasts and castle fans.
This article will comprehensively cover the charm of Moriya Castle, from its construction to its abandonment, details of the existing remains, access methods, and nearby attractions.
Overview and Location of Moriya Castle
Moriya Castle is located in Honmachi, Moriya City, Ibaraki Prefecture, and is a flatland castle built on a plateau between the Kinugawa and Kokaigawa rivers, tributaries of the Tone River. Utilizing the plateau at an altitude of approximately 30 meters, it was a strong fortress that made use of the surrounding low-lying wetlands as natural moats.
The Shiroyama area, centered around the current Moriya Castle Ruins Park, was the central part of the castle, with multiple baileys (kuruma) arranged around it. While much of the castle grounds have been urbanized, the central area remains well-preserved, and remnants such as dry moats and earthworks can still be seen.
Moriya Castle is one of the “100 Scenic Views of Ibaraki Prefecture” and is designated as a historical site by Moriya City. It’s easily accessible from central Tokyo; using the Tsukuba Express, you can reach Moriya Station from Akihabara in as little as 32 minutes.
History of Moriya Castle
The Legend of Taira no Masakado and the Mystery of its Construction
A legend persists that Moriya Castle was built by Taira no Masakado. During the Meiji era, a stone monument inscribed with “Taira no Masakado Castle Site” was erected and has been cherished by local residents. However, there is no reliable historical evidence to support this legend, and from a historical perspective, it is considered a later fabrication.
While there are no definitive historical records regarding the actual builder or construction date of the castle, the most widely accepted theory currently is that in the early Kamakura period, Soma Moritsune, the second son of Chiba Tsunetane, inherited the Soma clan and built the castle in this location.
The Soma clan, as a branch of the Chiba clan, established their base in Soma County, Shimosa Province. A manor belonging to Ise Grand Shrine, known as Soma Mikuriya, existed in the Moriya area, and the Soma clan established their control over this region.
Moriya Castle and the Soma Clan in the Sengoku Period
Moriya Castle first clearly appears in historical records during the Sengoku period, in the first half of the 16th century. The castle lord at that time was the Soma clan, and it was known as a strong fortress, referred to as “Soma Fortress.”
The Kanto region during the Sengoku period was in a complex situation, with the Ashikaga clan (Koga Kubo), the Uesugi clan (Kanto Kanrei), and the emerging Later Hojo clan vying for supremacy. The Soma clan, while subservient to the Koga Shogunate, repeatedly engaged in conflicts with surrounding forces.
A particularly important turning point was during the time of Soma Harutane. Initially, Harutane resisted the expansion of the Later Hojo clan’s power, but in 1567, he made peace with the Later Hojo clan and surrendered Moriya Castle. This peace agreement brought the Soma clan under the Later Hojo’s control.
Renovations by the Later Hojo Clan
After the Later Hojo clan acquired Moriya Castle, the castle underwent extensive renovations. The Later Hojo clan is known for controlling many castles in the Kanto region and developing their own unique castle-building techniques.
The complex arrangement of dry moats, designed with flanking fire in mind, and the structure of the baileys, as seen in Moriya Castle, demonstrate the influence of the Later Hojo clan’s castle-building techniques. In particular, the defensive facilities around the main keep are thought to have been strengthened by the renovations during this period.
The Soma clan continued to exist as vassals of the Later Hojo clan, but when the Later Hojo clan was destroyed in Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Odawara campaign in 1590, the Soma clan’s territory was also confiscated.
Moriya Domain and Abandoned Castle in the Edo Period
In the early Edo period, the Moriya Domain was established in Moriya. In 1609, Toki Sadamasa, a close confidant of Tokugawa Ieyasu, became the lord of the Moriya Domain with a stipend of 10,000 koku, and Moriya Castle was used as the domain’s administrative center.
However, the Moriya Domain was short-lived. The Toki clan was transferred in 1630, and although the lords changed several times afterward, the Moriya Domain itself was abolished around 1702. Consequently, Moriya Castle was also abandoned and never functioned as a castle again.
From the mid-Edo period onward, the castle grounds were used for farmland and residential areas, and the remains gradually disappeared. However, the central part was preserved in a relatively good state.
Layout and Structure of Moriya Castle
Structure of the Honmaru (Main Enclosure)
The Honmaru, the central part of Moriya Castle, is located on the highest point of the plateau. It is the core of the current Moriya Castle Ruins Park and was a highly independent enclosure surrounded by a deep dry moat.
The Honmaru measures approximately 100 meters east-west and 80 meters north-south, a medium size for a medieval castle. It is estimated that the lord’s residence and other important buildings stood here in its heyday.
The dry moat surrounding the Honmaru is large, reaching 5-8 meters in depth and 10-15 meters in width, and its impressive appearance can still be seen today. The bottom of the moat is intricately curved, a design that emphasizes flanking fire.
Defensive Functions of the Second Enclosure
Several enclosures were arranged around the main keep, but the second enclosure was particularly important. Located from the west to the south of the main keep, the second enclosure served as a crucial defensive point, preventing approaches to the main keep.
A deep dry moat was dug between the second enclosure and the main keep, creating a structure that hindered enemy intrusion. Furthermore, the second enclosure itself was surrounded by earthen ramparts, functioning as an independent defensive structure.
Currently, a portion of the second enclosure has been developed into Moriya Castle Ruins Park, where visitors can observe the earthen ramparts and dry moats as they were at the time. The dry moat on the south side, in particular, is well-preserved, making it a valuable historical site that allows visitors to appreciate its depth and scale.
Western Defensive Line
To the west of Moriya Castle was an enclosure called the Omagadaikuruwa. This enclosure was an important defensive point, prepared for attacks from the west of the castle.
The western side had relatively gentle terrain, making it a direction that required vigilance as an enemy invasion route. Therefore, multiple defensive lines were constructed, combining several baileys and dry moats.
The Omagadai bailey has a long, narrow shape, allowing for effective flanking fire. If the enemy attempted to cross the moat, they would be attacked from the flank.
Eastern Bailey Arrangement
Several baileys were also located on the eastern side of the castle. The eastern side was close to the edge of a plateau, allowing for defense utilizing the natural terrain.
The eastern group of baileys is thought to have been responsible for defending against approaches from the castle town and the main road. Currently, urbanization has progressed, making it difficult to confirm its original appearance, but some traces of earthworks remain.
Characteristics of the Shield-Shaped Bailey
A distinctive feature of Moriya Castle’s layout is the long, narrow bailey known as the shield-shaped bailey. Located south of the main keep, this bailey functioned as a forward position against attacks from the south. The name “Shield-shaped” comes from its elongated shape, which resembles a shield standing upright. This enclosure has a distinctive narrow width and long length, and its design maximizes the use of flanking fire.
When the enemy entered the shield-shaped enclosure, they would be subjected to concentrated attacks from high positions on both sides, allowing for effective defense even with a small force. This ingenuity is thought to demonstrate the influence of the Hojo clan’s castle-building techniques.
Highlights of Existing Remains
The Impressive Dry Moat
The most impressive remains at Moriya Castle Ruins Park are the well-preserved dry moats. The dry moats around the main enclosure reach a depth of 5 to 8 meters, allowing visitors to experience the impressive defensive structure of a medieval castle.
The dry moat on the south side of the main enclosure is particularly well-preserved, and it is possible to descend to the bottom of the moat. The height of the earthworks viewed from the bottom of the moat is breathtaking, allowing visitors to truly appreciate the strength of the defenses at the time.
The dry moats are not straight, but rather have a complex, winding pattern. This is a defensive technique called “yokoya-gakari,” designed to attack the enemy from the flank as they advance through the moat. You can observe this ingenuity while walking along the bottom of the moat.
Preservation of the Earthworks
The earthworks surrounding the baileys are also well-preserved. Earthworks 2-4 meters high surround the main bailey and the second bailey, conveying their original appearance.
The tops of the earthworks are flat, suggesting that fences or walls were once installed there. Walking along the tops of the earthworks allows you to experience the excellent view of the castle grounds and its defensive advantages.
While some earthworks show damage from later alterations and weathering, preservation efforts by the Moriya City Tourism Association and others have maintained the main sections in good condition.
Arrangement of Baileys and Utilization of Terrain
Walking through Moriya Castle Ruins Park reveals the skillful arrangement of multiple baileys. Each bailey is separated by dry moats and earthworks, functioning as an independent defensive unit.
The castle’s terrain was utilized to its fullest extent, with defensive lines constructed using the elevation differences. Movement routes between the baileys were also limited, effectively preventing enemy incursions.
Information boards are installed within the park, allowing visitors to understand the location and function of each bailey. Thanks to the Moriya City Tourism Association’s efforts, undergrowth has been cleared, making it easier to identify the remains.
Remains around Moriya Elementary School
Besides Moriya Castle Ruins Park, other remains are preserved in the surrounding area. In particular, earthworks and explanatory signs, which were part of the castle, are located in front of the main gate and around the perimeter of Moriya Elementary School.
The grounds of Moriya Elementary School are part of the former castle grounds. Walking around the school, one can imagine the extent of the castle grounds from the faint traces of earthworks and the undulations of the terrain.
Since these remains are scattered within a residential area, consideration for the lives of local residents is necessary when visiting.
Status of Moriya Castle Ruins Park
Park Function
Moriya Castle Ruins Park maintains its value as a historical site while also functioning as a place of relaxation for citizens. Walking paths are maintained within the park, allowing visitors to enjoy strolling.
Public restrooms are located on the south side of the park, and a free parking lot is also available. The main ruins are accessible within a few minutes’ walk from the parking lot, making it a highly convenient facility.
The park retains a moderate amount of trees, preserving its natural environment. Visitors can enjoy the scenery of each season, from cherry blossoms in spring to autumn foliage.
Information Boards and Explanatory Facilities
Thanks to the efforts of the Moriya City Tourism Association and others, comprehensive information boards are installed within the park. Detailed information is provided, including the history of the castle, a layout map, and explanations of each ruin.
Individual explanatory boards are also located near the main ruins, creating an environment that is easy to understand even for first-time visitors. The information boards also include photographs and diagrams, making the content visually easy to understand.
A map of the entire park is available at the entrance, which is helpful when planning your visit. The visit takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing ample time to carefully observe the ruins.
Preservation and Maintenance Efforts
Moriya City and the Moriya City Tourism Association are actively working to preserve and utilize the Moriya Castle Ruins. Regular undergrowth clearing improves the visibility of the ruins and enhances the visitor environment.
In recent years, surveying and academic research of the ruins have progressed, clarifying the historical value of Moriya Castle. These findings are reflected in updated information boards, providing visitors with the latest information.
Volunteer activities by local residents contribute to cleaning and environmental maintenance. These efforts ensure that the site’s value as a historical site and its function as a park are balanced.
Access and Surrounding Information
Access by Train
The nearest station to Moriya Castle Ruins Park is Moriya Station on the Tsukuba Express or Kanto Railway Joso Line.
If using the Tsukuba Express:
- Fastest travel time from Akihabara Station to Moriya Station is 32 minutes (using the rapid train).
- Moriya Castle Ruins Park is approximately a 20-minute walk from the east exit of Moriya Station.
If using the Kanto Railway Joso Line:
- Approximately 10 minutes from Toride Station to Moriya Station.
- Approximately a 20-minute walk from Moriya Station.
Buses also operate from the east exit of Moriya Station. Get off at the “Castle Ruins Park Entrance” bus stop, and the park is a few minutes’ walk away. Since bus service is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Access by Car
If traveling by car, the Yawara Interchange on the Joban Expressway is convenient.
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Joban Expressway, Yawara IC.
- Free parking is available at Moriya Castle Ruins Park (south side of the park).
- Approximately 20 parking spaces available.
The parking lot is located on the south side of the park, near the public restrooms. The park may be crowded on weekends, holidays, and during cherry blossom season, so we recommend visiting with plenty of time to spare.
Estimated Visit Time
Please use the following as a guideline for the time required to visit Moriya Castle Ruins Park:
- Visiting only the main remains: 30-40 minutes
- Thoroughly exploring the park: 1-1.5 hours
- Visiting including surrounding remains: Approximately 2 hours
If you plan to carefully observe the remains such as dry moats and earthworks, and enjoy taking photographs, we recommend allocating at least one hour.
Nearby Attractions
There are other historical attractions in the vicinity of Moriya Castle Ruins Park.
Nearby Castle Ruins:
- Takai Castle (Toride City, Ibaraki Prefecture): Approximately 3.8 km from Moriya Castle
- Fuse Castle (Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture): Approximately 6.2 km from Moriya Castle
- Abiko Castle (Abiko City, Chiba Prefecture): Approximately 8.2 km from Moriya Castle
Visiting these castle ruins in combination will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the characteristics of medieval castles in this region.
Tourist Spots in Moriya City:
- Commercial facilities around Moriya Station
- Shiki-no-Sato Park
- Moriya City Local History Museum (Also exhibits materials related to Moriya Castle)
The Moriya City Local History Museum exhibits materials related to Moriya Castle and the Soma clan, and visiting before or after visiting the castle ruins will deepen your understanding.
Moriya Castle Visiting Points and Precautions
Best Season for Visiting
Moriya Castle Ruins Park is open year-round, but each season offers a different charm.
Spring (Late March – April):
Cherry blossoms bloom, enveloping the park in a vibrant atmosphere. Many visitors come for cherry blossom viewing.
Autumn (November):
The autumn foliage is beautiful, allowing you to enjoy the harmony between the ruins and nature. The weather is mild, making it ideal for a stroll.
Summer (June – August):
The greenery is lush, allowing you to appreciate the castle’s atmosphere, but heat protection is necessary. Insect repellent is also recommended.
Winter (December – February):
The fallen leaves make it easier to grasp the overall layout of the ruins. The air is clear, making it suitable for photography, but warm clothing is necessary.
Clothing and Items to Bring When Visiting
When visiting Moriya Castle Ruins Park, we recommend the following preparations:
Attire:
- Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers or trekking shoes)
- Comfortable clothing
- Hat (for sun protection)
- Seasonal clothing for warmth and heat
Items to Bring:
- Drinks (especially in summer)
- Camera (for photographing the ruins)
- Insect repellent (in summer)
- Towel
- Rain gear (depending on the weather)
If you plan to descend to the bottom of the dry moat, it’s important to choose shoes with good grip as there are slippery areas.
Visitor Etiquette
Moriya Castle Ruins Park is also a place of relaxation for citizens, so please observe the following etiquette when visiting.
- Do not damage the remains (do not climb on the earthworks or moat walls)
- Always take your trash with you
- Do not shout
- Do not collect plants
- Behave quietly in surrounding residential areas
- Share parking spaces with others
Especially when visiting the remains around Moriya Elementary School, it is important to be considerate of the school’s educational activities and the lives of local residents, and to view the site quietly.
Historical Value and Cultural Property Designation of Moriya Castle
Ibaraki’s 100 Scenic Views and City-Designated Historic Site
Moriya Castle Ruins are one of Ibaraki’s 100 Scenic Views and are recognized as a representative scenic spot and historical site of Ibaraki Prefecture. Ibaraki’s 100 Scenic Views were selected in 1950, and include outstanding natural and historical landscapes within the prefecture.
Furthermore, Moriya Castle Ruins are designated as a historical site of Moriya City and are protected as an important cultural property of the region. This designation legally guarantees the preservation and utilization of the remains, and appropriate management is carried out.
Significance in Medieval Castle Research
Moriya Castle is an important example of the transformation of castles from the medieval period to the early modern period. It retains the characteristics of multiple eras, from a medieval castle under the Soma clan to a castle renovated by the Later Hojo clan, and finally to a modern castle in the early Edo period.
In particular, the remains showing the influence of the Later Hojo clan’s castle-building techniques are valuable resources for studying Sengoku period castles in the Kanto region. The arrangement of dry moats, designed with flanking fire in mind, and the efficient layout of the baileys demonstrate the high level of military skill of the Later Hojo clan.
Importance in Regional History
Moriya Castle is an indispensable historical site for understanding the medieval history of Shimosa Province. It reflects the complex political situation in the Kanto region, including the activities of the Soma clan, a branch of the Chiba clan, the relationship between the Koga Shogunate and the samurai groups of Kanto, and the expansion of the Later Hojo clan’s power.
The existence of the Moriya Domain in the early Edo period also provides clues to understanding the realities of small domains under the Tokugawa shogunate. The fact that it was abolished after such a short period of time is one example of the Edo Shogunate’s policy of controlling the daimyo (feudal lords).
Evaluation by Visitors to Moriya Castle
Evaluation from Castle Enthusiasts
Moriya Castle is highly regarded among castle enthusiasts. On castle information websites such as Kojodan, it has a high average rating of ★★★★☆ (3.86), indicating that many visitors are satisfied.
The points that are particularly praised are as follows:
- Easy access from the city center
- Excellent preservation of the remains
- Impressive dry moat
- Well-maintained viewing environment
- Abundant information boards
On the other hand, some lament that “much of the castle area has been urbanized” and “no buildings remain,” but its value as an earthen castle is fully recognized.
Impressions from General Tourists
Even general tourists with no particular interest in castles have given positive feedback, such as “perfect for a walk,” “you can feel the history,” and “rich in nature.”
Because it has excellent park facilities, it is popular with families and local residents who enjoy strolling. It is also used as a place for historical learning, and is utilized for local elementary school students’ local history lessons.
Summary
Moriya Castle is a castle site from the medieval to early modern period located in Moriya City, Ibaraki Prefecture. While associated with the legend of Taira no Masakado, it actually developed as the residence of the Soma clan and became a strong fortress during the Sengoku period after being renovated by the Later Hojo clan.
Currently, it is maintained as Moriya Castle Ruins Park, and the remains such as deep dry moats and high earthen ramparts are well preserved. Its easy accessibility, just a 20-minute walk from Moriya Station on the Tsukuba Express line, is also a major draw, making it a valuable historical site easily accessible from central Tokyo.
Moriya Castle Ruins Park allows visitors to experience the structure of a medieval castle firsthand and learn about the wisdom and ingenuity of the samurai of the Sengoku period. It is a recommended spot not only for history buffs but also for those who enjoy strolling and those who want to learn about local history.
Thanks to the ongoing maintenance efforts by the Moriya City Tourism Association, it is expected that the viewing environment will continue to improve. If you are interested in the medieval history of the Kanto region, why not pay a visit?
