Complete Guide to Kanbe Castle: The Castle Ruins Associated with Oda Nobutaka, Remaining in Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture
Located in the heart of Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture, Kanbe Castle was a flatland castle that played an important role as a strategic point in northern Ise Province from the Sengoku period to the Edo period. Currently maintained as Kanbe Park, its rough-hewn stone walls and moats evoke its former glory. This guide provides a detailed account of the story of the five-story keep built by Oda Nobunaga’s third son, Kanbe Nobutaka, the succession of castle lords from the Kanbe clan to the Honda clan, and the remains that survive today.
Overview and Historical Importance of Kanbe Castle
Kanbe Castle was a Japanese castle located in Kanbe Honda-cho, Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture. During the Edo period, it served as the administrative center of the Kanbe Domain. Situated at a strategically important transportation hub in northern Ise Province, it controlled the intersection of the Tokaido and Ise Kaido roads, making it a strategically important fortress.
The castle’s name is pronounced “Kanbe-jo,” and it is not the same as the current Kobe City in Hyogo Prefecture. This area has been called “Kanbe” since ancient times, and its name is said to originate from its status as a sacred territory of Ise Grand Shrine.
The current site of Kanbe Castle is located in the heart of the city and is now Kanbe Park, a place of relaxation for citizens. The main keep site retains well-preserved stone walls built in the nozurazumi style, making it a valuable historical site that conveys the scale of the castle in its heyday.
Construction of Kanbe Castle and the Kanbe Clan
Construction by Kanbe Tomori
Kanbe Castle was constructed during the Tenbun era (1532-1555) by Kanbe Tomori, the fourth head of the Kanbe clan. The Kanbe clan had previously used Sawajo (also known as Kanbe Nishijo) as their base, but built a new castle at the current location, which offered superior defenses, and moved their base there.
The Kambe clan was a prestigious family, one of the five powerful families of Ise Province, and a local lord that controlled the northern part of the province. During the Sengoku period, Ise Province was a state of warring states, with numerous powers such as the Kitabatake, Seki, and Kambe clans vying for power. The Kambe clan was also fighting for survival amidst this chaos.
Relationship with Oda Nobunaga and the Invasion of Takigawa Kazumasu
In 1568, when Oda Nobunaga began his invasion of Ise Province, the Kambe clan initially resisted. However, after being attacked by Takigawa Kazumasu, a vassal of Nobunaga, Kambe Tomomori chose the path of peace. As a condition of this peace agreement, the Kambe clan adopted Oda Nobutaka (then 37 years old, later known as Kambe Nobutaka), Nobunaga’s third son.
This politically motivated adoption brought the Kambe clan under the wing of the Oda clan, making it one of the Oda’s strongholds in Ise Province.
Major Renovations and Construction of the Five-Story Keep by Kambe Nobutaka
Oda Nobutaka’s Appointment as Lord
Around 1575 (Tensho 3), Oda Nobutaka, who had been adopted into the Kambe family, officially became the lord of Kambe Castle. Born as the third son of Oda Nobunaga, Nobutaka inherited the headship of the Kambe clan at his father’s command, taking the name Kambe Nobutaka.
Construction of the Five-Story Keep
Upon becoming lord, Kambe Nobutaka began a large-scale renovation of Kambe Castle. Around 1580 (Tensho 8), he is believed to have constructed a magnificent five-story, six-tiered (or five-tiered) keep modeled after Azuchi Castle. This keep was one of the largest in Ise Province at the time and became a symbol of the Oda clan’s power.
While detailed records of the castle tower’s structure are scarce, it is presumed to have been a magnificent structure modeled after Azuchi Castle. The stonework also evolved from rough-hewn stone to fitted stonework, transforming the castle into a much stronger fortress.
The Achievements and Tragedy of Kambe Nobutaka
Kambe Nobutaka governed Ise Province as its lord, while also participating in various battles as a member of the Oda clan. He was appointed commander-in-chief during the Shikoku campaign of 1582 and was preparing for departure when the Honnoji Incident occurred.
After the death of his father, Nobunaga, Nobutaka participated in the campaign against Akechi Mitsuhide, achieving victory at the Battle of Yamazaki. However, he clashed with Hashiba Hideyoshi (Toyotomi Hideyoshi) in the subsequent succession struggle within the Oda clan, suffering defeat in 1583. He was forced to commit suicide at Kambe Castle, ending his life at the young age of 26.
Relocation of the Castle Tower and the Kobe Turret of Kuwana Castle
After the death of Kobe Nobutaka, the five-story castle tower of Kobe Castle was dismantled and relocated to Kuwana Castle as a three-story turret. This turret was called the “Kobe Turret” and functioned as an important defensive structure for Kuwana Castle.
However, there are differing theories regarding this relocation, and it has been suggested that it may have actually been a different building. In any case, the castle tower of Kobe Castle was lost shortly after Nobutaka’s death and was never rebuilt.
Kobe Castle and its Successive Lords in the Edo Period
Changes After the Battle of Sekigahara
After the death of Kobe Nobutaka, Kobe Castle was temporarily abandoned, but it was later revived, and several daimyo served as its lords. Following the Battle of Sekigahara (1600), Kobe Castle experienced the following changes in its lords:
The Ichiyanagi Clan Era (1601-1636)
Ichiyanagi Naomori, who distinguished himself on the Eastern Army side in the Battle of Sekigahara, was granted a 50,000 koku domain and became the lord of Kobe Castle. The Ichiyanagi clan ruled Kobe Castle for two generations, but the line ended in 1636 (Kanei 13) due to a lack of heirs, and Kobe Castle temporarily became a shogunate territory.
The Ishikawa Clan Era (1648-1651)
In 1648 (Keian 1), Ishikawa Socho was granted a 10,000 koku domain, but was dispossessed of his lands just three years later in 1651 (Keian 4), and the domain once again became a shogunate territory.
The Honda Clan’s Entry and the Establishment of the Kobe Domain
In 1732 (Kyoho 17), Honda Tadatsune was granted a 20,000 koku domain in Kobe, and the Kobe Domain was officially established. The Honda clan was a hereditary daimyo family descended from Honda Tadakatsu, a senior retainer of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and ruled the Kobe Domain for eight generations until the Meiji Restoration.
During the Honda clan’s rule, the castle grounds were redeveloped, but the main keep was not rebuilt; only turrets, gates, and palaces were restored. Due to its relatively small size (20,000 koku), Kobe Castle in the Edo period is thought to have been closer to a practical fortified residence than the grand castles of the Sengoku period.
Meiji Restoration and Abolition of the Castle
After the Meiji Restoration, the Kobe Domain ceased to exist due to the return of land and people to the emperor and the abolition of the feudal domains and establishment of prefectures. Kobe Castle was officially abolished in 1871 (Meiji 4). The buildings within the castle were demolished, and part of the moat was filled in, but the stone walls of the main keep and part of the moat were preserved and remain to this day.
Layout and Structure of Kobe Castle
Characteristics as a Flatland Castle
Kobe Castle was a typical flatland castle, with a concentric layout surrounded by a moat. Unlike mountain castles, which are naturally fortified, this castle was built on flat land and emphasized defense through moats, earthworks, and stone walls.
The castle’s scale included the main keep, second bailey, and third bailey, and the entire castle town was also protected by a comprehensive defensive system. Located at a crucial transportation hub where the Tokaido and Ise Kaido roads intersected, it offered a strategic advantage in the distribution of goods and the gathering of information.
Main Keep and Castle Tower Base
The main keep was the core of the castle, with the castle tower base built in the center. The remaining castle tower base measures approximately 20 meters on each side and 4 meters high, constructed with rough-hewn stone walls.
Rough-hewn stone walls are a technique of stacking natural stones with minimal processing, and were widely used from the Sengoku period to the early Edo period. The castle tower base of Kobe Castle is valued as a valuable example of this rough-hewn stone technique.
The stonework of the castle walls primarily uses locally sourced granite, and the stacking method exhibits a certain regularity. Larger stones are placed at the corners, a technique employed to enhance overall stability.
Moats and Water Supply
Kobe Castle was surrounded by a moat, enhancing its defensive capabilities. The moat’s water source was drawn from a tributary of the nearby Suzuka River, maintaining a constant water level.
Even today, parts of the moat remain around the main keep, allowing us to imagine its former appearance. However, due to urbanization since the Meiji era, many moats have been filled in and replaced with roads and residential areas.
Existing Remains and Kobe Park
Castle Tower Base Stone Walls
The most important remains at the Kobe Castle site are the stone walls of the castle tower base remaining in the main keep. Built using the nozurazumi technique, these walls retain much of their original appearance and are valuable resources for studying stonework techniques of the Sengoku period.
While trees currently grow densely on the castle tower base, the stone walls themselves are in good condition. In recent years, preservation work has been carried out on the stone walls, and efforts to pass them on to future generations continue.
Moat Remains
A portion of the inner moat surrounding the main keep still exists, and the northern and western sides, in particular, retain their original appearance relatively well. The moat was approximately 10-15 meters wide and 3-4 meters deep, functioning as a water moat.
The moat is now home to carp and turtles, and serves as a place of relaxation for citizens. In spring, the cherry blossoms planted along the moat bloom beautifully, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.
Development as Kobe Park
The Kobe Castle ruins were developed as Kobe Park during the Showa period and opened to the public. The park includes playground equipment and open spaces, and is used as a playground for children.
An information board explaining the history of Kobe Castle is installed in one corner of the park, conveying the castle’s history to visitors. Furthermore, a reconstructed gatehouse-style building has been erected, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the past.
Stone Monuments and Memorials
Within the park, there are stone monuments marking the site of Kobe Castle, as well as memorials honoring successive castle lords. In particular, the monument to Honda Tadatsune is an important historical document that conveys the history of the Kobe Domain during the Edo period.
Access and Visiting Information for Kambe Castle Ruins
Location and Transportation Access
Location: Kambe Honda-cho, Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture
Access by Train:
- Get off at Kintetsu Nagoya Line “Suzuka-shi Station,” approximately 15 minutes on foot
- Get off at JR Kansai Main Line “Kasato Station,” approximately 20 minutes on foot
Access by Bus:
- Get off at Mie Kotsu Bus “Kambe” bus stop, approximately 3 minutes on foot
Access by Car:
- Approximately 10 minutes from Tomeihan Expressway “Suzuka IC”
- Parking: Free parking available at Kambe Park (approximately 20 cars)
Visiting Information
Opening Hours: Always open (As it is maintained as a park, 24-hour entry is possible)
Admission Fee: Free
Estimated Visiting Time: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
Recommended Points of Interest:
- The rough-hewn stone wall of the main keep
- The remains of the inner moat
- Historical Explanation via Information Board
- Restored Turret Gate
Points to Note When Visiting
- Climbing on the stone walls is prohibited.
- Smoking is prohibited in the park.
- Pets are allowed, but please keep them on a leash.
- There are areas with uneven footing around the castle keep base, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Suzuka City Archaeological Museum
This museum is located about 10 minutes by car from the Kobe Castle ruins and exhibits the history and archaeological materials of Suzuka City. It also houses materials related to Kobe Castle, and visiting it in conjunction with a visit to the castle ruins will provide a deeper understanding.
Ise Kokubunji Temple Ruins
The site of the Ise Kokubunji Temple, built during the Nara period, is located about 15 minutes by car from the Kobe Castle ruins. It is a historical site where you can feel the history of Suzuka that has continued since ancient times.
Suzuka Circuit
A world-famous racing circuit, located about 20 minutes by car from the Kobe Castle ruins. Visiting the sacred grounds of motorsports in conjunction with a tour of the castle ruins is also highly recommended.
Historical Evaluation and Cultural Property Designation of Kobe Castle
Kobe Castle ruins are protected as a historical site designated by Suzuka City and are recognized as an important cultural property of the region. The existence of the five-story keep built by Kobe Nobutaka, the third son of Oda Nobunaga, and its historical importance as the administrative center of the Kobe Domain throughout the Edo period are highly valued.
In particular, the existing rough-hewn stone walls are attracting attention from castle researchers as valuable remains that demonstrate stonework techniques from the Sengoku period to the early Edo period. In recent years, detailed surveys of the stone walls and the discovery of new remains through archaeological excavations have progressed, gradually revealing the complete picture of Kobe Castle.
Legends and Anecdotes Related to Kobe Castle
Kobe Nobutaka’s Death Poem
Kobe Nobutaka, who committed suicide at Kobe Castle, is said to have left behind the death poem: “Since I am from Noma, where I was killed by my lord in ancient times, await my retribution, Hashiba Chikuzen.” This poem is known to refer to Noma (Mihama-cho, Chita-gun, Aichi Prefecture), where Minamoto no Yoshitomo was killed in the Heiji Rebellion, and is said to express resentment towards Toyotomi Hideyoshi (Hashiba Chikuzen-no-kami).
The Mystery of the Castle Tower’s Relocation
While the legend that Kobe Castle’s five-story castle tower was relocated to Kuwana Castle is widely known, many aspects of the actual relocation date and method remain unclear. One theory suggests that only some parts of the castle tower, not the entire tower, were relocated, and further research is needed.
Origin of the Place Name Kobe
The place name “Kobe” originates from the fact that it was a sacred territory of Ise Grand Shrine. “Kobe” refers to a household or land belonging to a shrine, indicating that this region had a deep connection with Ise Grand Shrine since ancient times. The current city of Kobe in Hyogo Prefecture shares the same origin, although its pronunciation differs (“Kobe”).
Preservation of Kobe Castle and Future Prospects
Suzuka City is actively working to preserve and utilize the Kobe Castle ruins, carrying out regular maintenance work on the stone walls and installing information boards. Local history enthusiasts and citizen groups also conduct cleaning activities and hold history lectures, maintaining it as a beloved historical site for the citizens.
In the future, based on the results of archaeological excavations, plans are underway to create more detailed restoration drawings and to recreate the castle’s appearance in its heyday using VR technology. Various initiatives are expected to pass on the historical value of Kobe Castle to future generations.
Summary: The Charm and Historical Significance of Kobe Castle
Kobe Castle played an important role as a strategic point in northern Ise Province from the Sengoku period to the Edo period. From its construction by the Kambe clan to the building of a five-story keep by Kambe Nobutaka, the third son of Oda Nobunaga, and finally to the rule of the Honda clan during the Edo period, this castle boasts a diverse history.
Currently, it is a popular park for citizens, and valuable remains such as the rough-hewn stone walls and moat remnants are well-preserved. When visiting Suzuka City in Mie Prefecture, be sure to visit this historic castle site and reflect on its long history that dates back to the Sengoku period.
While the Kambe Castle ruins do not feature a large-scale reconstruction of the keep or turrets, the stone walls and moats of yesteryear allow you to truly feel the presence of the castle that once stood there. It is a quiet and profound historical site. Experience firsthand the glory and tragedy of Oda Nobutaka, and the history of the Kambe domain, which supported the region throughout the Edo period.
