Complete Guide to Nakamurayama Castle | A Thorough Explanation of the History and Remains of the Castles in Kii and Etchu Provinces
While there are several castles named Nakamurayama Castle throughout Japan, the mountain castles built in Kii Province (present-day Owase City, Mie Prefecture) and Etchu Province (present-day Himi City, Toyama Prefecture) are particularly historically important. This article provides a comprehensive and detailed explanation of these two Nakamurayama Castles, covering their historical background, construction history, the turbulent Sengoku period, the current state of their remains, and access methods.
What is Nakamurayama Castle?
The name Nakamurayama Castle is a general term for several castles throughout Japan, but historic, the two most important are the castles in Kii Province and Etchu Province. Each served as the base of a powerful local clan and played a crucial role in regional control during the Sengoku period.
Basic Information on Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province
Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province is a flatland castle built on the entire Nakamurayama Hill, located in the center of present-day Owase City, Mie Prefecture, at an elevation of approximately 50 meters with a relative height difference of approximately 40 meters. It is known as the main castle of the Naka clan, who ruled the Owase region.
A key feature of the castle is its fortified structure, which encompassed the entire hill, with multiple baileys arranged around the main enclosure. Its location facing Owase Bay gave it a strategic position controlling a crucial point for maritime traffic, making it an important military base in the eastern part of the Kii Peninsula.
Basic Information on Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province
Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province is a mountain castle located in Nakamura, Himi City, Toyama Prefecture, also known as Nakamura Castle. Built on a mountain with a relative height difference of 50 meters jutting out into the plains of the Kamisho River, it is a large-scale mountain castle measuring 350 meters north-south by 400 meters east-west.
Designated as Toyama Castle Card No. 37, this castle was strategically located near the border between Noto and Etchu provinces. It is believed to have been associated with powerful warlords of Etchu, such as the Kikuchi and Jimbo clans.
History and Development of Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province
Background of Construction and the Rise of the Naka Clan
The exact construction date of Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province is unclear, but it is believed to have been built by the Naka clan, who ruled the region from the late Muromachi period to the early Sengoku period. The Naka clan were local lords based in the Owase region of the eastern Kii Peninsula, with deep ties to the Kumano naval force, and wielded influence in both maritime and land transportation.
Owase was a crucial transportation hub connecting Kumano and Ise, and possessed a good port, making it an economically and militarily important region. The Naka clan leveraged this geographical advantage to expand their power, centered around Nakamurayama Castle.
The Wars of the Tensho Era and the Invasion of Horiuchi Ujiyoshi
In 1582 (Tensho 10), Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province faced its greatest crisis. Horiuchi Ujiyoshi, based in Shingu, invaded northern Kii and approached Owase, the last remaining stronghold.
Owase was defended by the so-called “Six Lords,” led by Naka Shinpachiro (also known as Shinnojō), and including the Seko, Kitamura, and Shōji clans. They used Nakamurayama Castle as their main stronghold and established camps at three other locations: Yamanokami Fort and Sekiyama Fort, to confront Horiuchi’s army.
This battle was fierce, and the local samurai of Owase fought bravely, but ultimately suffered defeat at the hands of Horiuchi’s overwhelming military power. This defeat led to the decline of the local Owase gentry, centered around the Naka clan, and Nakamurayama Castle lost its function.
Changes Since the Edo Period
During the Edo period, Kii Province became part of the Kishu Domain, one of the three main branches of the Tokugawa family, and Nakamurayama Castle was abandoned. The castle ruins gradually returned to nature and now remains as a green space adjacent to the city.
History and Development of Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province
Construction and the Kikuchi and Jimbo Clans
There are various theories regarding the construction period and builders of Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province, but it is believed to have been built during the Muromachi and Sengoku periods, in connection with the powerful local lords of Etchu, the Kikuchi and Jimbo clans.
The Kamisho River basin was an important transportation route connecting Noto and Etchu, and Himi had a good port facing Toyama Bay. Therefore, controlling this area held great military and economic significance. Nakamurayama Castle functioned as a base to control this strategic location.
Battles in the Sengoku Period
During the Sengoku period, Etchu Province became a fierce battleground where powerful daimyo such as the Uesugi, Takeda, and Oda clans vied for supremacy. Nakamurayama Castle was also caught up in these power struggles, and it is presumed that numerous battles took place there.
Particularly during the Tensho era, after the death of Uesugi Kenshin, the Uesugi and Oda clans fought fiercely for control of Etchu, and many castles were engulfed in war. Nakamurayama Castle is thought to have played an important role during this period.
Transition to the Early Modern Period
After Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s unification of Japan, Etchu came under the control of the Maeda clan, and Nakamurayama Castle lost its strategic importance and was abandoned. During the Edo period, it enjoyed a peaceful era as part of the Kaga Domain, and the castle site became farmland and forest.
Castle Structure and Remains
Structure of Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province
Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province was a flatland castle encompassing the entire Nakamurayama Hill, and had the following structure:
Main Enclosure (Honmaru): Located at the highest point of the hill, it is presumed to have been the residence of the castle lord and command post. Even today, a flat, leveled area can be seen, and traces of earthworks remain around it.
Enclosure Group: Multiple enclosures were arranged in a stepped pattern around the main enclosure. These enclosures are thought to have functioned as defensive structures and troop encampments.
Moats and Vertical Moats: Moats cutting across the ridge of the hill and vertical moats descending the slope have been identified, functioning as defensive structures to prevent enemy intrusion.
Gate Entrance: Traces of the gate entrance to the castle remain, indicating a well-fortified defensive structure.
Currently, the leveled area of the main enclosure, parts of the earthworks, and moats are relatively well-preserved. Due to its proximity to the city, some parts have been lost due to development, but important remains have been preserved.
Structure of Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province
Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province is a large-scale castle measuring 350 meters north-south by 400 meters east-west, with the following characteristics:
Main Enclosure: Located on the mountaintop, the main enclosure boasts a vast leveled area, and it is presumed that multiple buildings were constructed there.
Multiple Enclosures: Several layers of enclosures surround the main enclosure, forming a multi-layered defensive structure.
Earthworks and Stone Walls: Earthworks surround the enclosures, and traces of stone walls have also been confirmed in some areas.
Moats: Large moats cutting across the ridges are located in multiple places, demonstrating an effort to limit enemy incursions.
Well Remains: Within the castle grounds, there are depressions believed to be the remains of wells, leaving traces of water source securing in preparation for sieges.
The current remains are well-preserved within the forest, making them valuable resources for castle enthusiasts and researchers.
Related Sub-castles and Forts
Related Castles in Kii Province
Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province did not function in isolation; it had several sub-castles and forts surrounding it.
Yamanokami Fort: Located north of Nakamurayama Castle, it was an important defensive point during the battle against the Horiuchi clan in 1582 (Tensho 10).
Sekiyama Fort: A fort protecting the east of Nakamurayama Castle, positioned to defend against invasions from Owase Bay.
These sub-castles and forts formed a defensive network centered on Nakamurayama Castle, creating a comprehensive defense system for the entire Owase region.
Related Castles in Etchu Province
Several related castles also existed around Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province. These are thought to have formed a defensive line along the Kamisho River basin and the Himi region, functioning in coordination with each other.
Castle Lord and Related Warlords
The Naka Clan, Lords of Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province
The Naka clan were local lords who controlled the Owase region in the eastern part of the Kii Peninsula and had close ties to the Kumano naval force. In particular, Naka Shinhachiro (Naka Shinnojō), who was active during the Tenshō period, is known as a brave general who resisted the Horiuchi clan’s invasion to the very end.
The Naka clan, in cooperation with local powerful families such as the Seko, Kitamura, and Shōji clans, formed an alliance known as the “Six Lords” to protect the autonomy of Owase. However, they were defeated in the battle of Tenshō 10 (1582), and their power greatly declined.
Horiuchi Ujiyoshi and the Unification of Kii
Horiuchi Ujiyoshi was a Sengoku daimyo based in Shingu, who expanded his power from the southern to the eastern part of the Kii Peninsula. His invasion of Owase in Tenshō was part of a strategy to suppress the last remaining resistance forces in the eastern part of the Kii Peninsula and unify Kii Province.
The Horiuchi clan later cooperated with Toyotomi Hideyoshi in his conquest of Kishu Province, and embarked on the path to becoming a modern daimyo. However, they were ultimately dispossessed of their domain and disappeared from the historical stage.
Lord of Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province
There are few reliable historical records regarding the lord of Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province. While connections to the Kikuchi and Jinbo clans have been suggested, many details remain unclear. The local lords of Etchu Province engaged in diplomatic and military actions for survival amidst powerful forces such as the Uesugi and Oda clans, and Nakamurayama Castle was one of the stages for these struggles.
Current Status of Nakamurayama Castle
Current Status of Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province
Currently, the site of Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province remains as a green space adjacent to the city of Owase. Some of the remains are well-preserved, making it a historical site visited castle by enthusiasts and history buffs.
While access is relatively easy due to its proximity to the city, some of the remains are overgrown with bushes, so caution is advised when visiting. Local efforts are underway to preserve the castle ruins, with the installation of information boards and the restoration of the remains progressing.
Current Status of Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province
Nakamurayama Castle ruins in Etchu Province are well-preserved within the mountainous forest of Himi City. The remains, including large-scale baileys, moats, and earthworks, are clearly visible, making it a valuable historical site that conveys the appearance of a mountain castle from the Sengoku period.
It has also been selected as a target castle for the Toyama Castle Card and is recognized as an important cultural property of Toyama Prefecture. However, as it is a mountain castle, preparation and physical fitness for climbing are necessary for a visit.
Location and Access
Access to Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province
Location: Nakamura-cho, Owase City, Mie Prefecture
Public Transportation: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Owase Station on the JR Kisei Main Line. From the station, head towards Nakamurayama through the city center.
Car: Approximately 10 minutes from Owase Kita IC on the Kisei Expressway. Parking is available in the city center. Points to Note When Visiting: Since it is close to the city center, daytime visits are recommended. When viewing the ruins, please be careful of your footing and wear appropriate clothing.
Access to Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province
Location: Nakamura (Kakidani area), Himi City, Toyama Prefecture
Public Transportation: Approximately 20 minutes by bus or taxi from Himi Station on the JR Himi Line. Then, approximately 30 minutes on foot from the trailhead.
By Car: Approximately 15 minutes from Himi IC on the Nōetsu Expressway. Parking is available near the trailhead.
Points to Note When Visiting: As it is a mountain castle, hiking boots and comfortable clothing are essential. Visiting from spring to autumn is recommended; be aware of snow in winter. Toyama Castle Cards can be obtained at distribution locations within Himi City.
Historical Significance of Nakamurayama Castle
As a Base for Regional Control
Nakamurayama Castle, in both Kii Province and Etchu Province, was an important base for powerful local clans to maintain their influence. Especially during the Sengoku period (Warring States period), it functioned as a military and political center for maintaining regional autonomy.
Witness to the Wars of the Tensho Era
Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province, in particular, was the stage for a specific historical event: the battle against the Horiuchi clan in 1582 (Tensho 10). It conveys an aspect of the Sengoku period—the resistance and defeat of local clans. This battle is a valuable example showing how smaller local clans responded and were ultimately defeated in the process of regional unification by larger powers.
Documentary Value for Castle Research
Both castles retain typical structures of mountain and hill castles from the Sengoku period, making them valuable resources for studying the castle construction techniques and defensive philosophies of the time. The large-scale remains of Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province, in particular, occupy an important position in the study of mountain castles in the Hokuriku region.
Related Historical Events and Figures
Kumano Navy and Maritime Transportation in Kii Province
The Naka clan, who ruled Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province, had deep ties with the Kumano Navy and were involved in the vested interests of maritime transportation. Owase was a good port facing the Kumano Sea and was important as a key point for maritime transportation. Nakamurayama Castle also functioned as a land base protecting this maritime transportation.
Uesugi Kenshin and the Conflict in Etchu Province
During the time when Nakamurayama Castle existed in Etchu Province, Uesugi Kenshin’s rule was being established in Etchu. After Kenshin’s death, Etchu fell into chaos again, and many castles were caught in the flames of war. Nakamurayama Castle is also thought to have played an important role in this conflict.
Historical Sites to Visit Along with Nearby Tourist Attractions
Around Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province
Owase Shrine: An ancient shrine deeply connected to the history of Owase, located close to the Nakamurayama Castle ruins.
Kumano Kodo: A portion of the Kumano Kodo, a World Heritage Site, passes through Owase, making it a great place to combine a historical walk with a visit to the area.
Owase City Local History Museum: A facility where you can learn about the history and culture of Owase, and it also exhibits materials related to Nakamurayama Castle.
Around Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province
Himi City Museum: A facility where you can learn about the history and culture of Himi, and it also provides information about Nakamurayama Castle.
Himi Coastline: The beautiful coastline facing Toyama Bay was once a maritime traffic route that was monitored from the castle.
Other Mountain Castles in Etchu: Many mountain ruin castles remain in Toyama Prefecture, making it an enjoyable course for castle touring.
Points to Note When Visiting Nakamurayama Castle
Safety Considerations
When visiting the remains of mountain castles or flatland castles, please pay attention to the following points.
- Wear appropriate clothing and shoes (hiking boots or athletic shoes).
- Be careful as the ground can be slippery in rainy weather or after rain.
- Take precautions against insect bites by using insect repellent spray and wearing long-sleeved clothing.
- Bring drinking water to prevent heatstroke.
- Avoid visiting alone; travel in groups.
Protection of Historical Remains
To protect the historical remains of the castle, which are a valuable cultural asset, please observe the following:
- Do not damage the earthworks or stone walls.
- Always take your trash with you.
- Do not collect plants or dig up the historical remains.
- Treat the information boards and explanatory signs with care.
Summary
Nakamurayama Castle was an important mountain castle from the Sengoku period that existed in Kii Province (Owase City, Mie Prefecture) and Etchu Province (Himi City, Toyama Prefecture). Each served as the base of a powerful local clan, and was abandoned after the wars of the Tensho period.
Nakamurayama Castle in Kii Province, the residence of the Naka clan, was the site of a fierce battle against the Horiuchi clan in 1582, and still bears witness to the history of the resistance and defeat of local powerful families. Nakamurayama Castle in Etchu Province retains extensive remains and is an important historical site for the study of mountain castles in the Hokuriku region.
Both castles now have well-preserved remains and are worth visiting for castle enthusiasts and history buffs. They are valuable resources for learning about the realities of regional rule during the Sengoku period and the castle construction techniques of the time.
By visiting Nakamurayama Castle, you can get a real feel for the lives and battles of local powerful families during the Sengoku period and the changes of the era. Those interested in history should definitely visit the sites and experience the weight of history firsthand.
