Kiriyama Castle (Mie Prefecture) Complete Guide | An Impregnable Mountain Castle that Flourished as the Base of the Kitabatake Clan
What is Kiriyama Castle?
Kiriyama Castle (Kiriyama-jō) is a Japanese mountain castle located in Kami-Take and Shimo-Take, Misugi-cho, Tsu City, Mie Prefecture. Also known as Tage Castle (Tage-jō), it is known as the base of the Kitabatake clan, who reigned as the governor of Ise Province from the Nanboku-chō period to the Sengoku period.
Built on a mountaintop at an altitude of 560m (some sources say 570m), this castle occupies a strategically important position, controlling a key transportation point along the Ise Honkaidō, a major road leading from Osaka and Nara to Ise Grand Shrine, despite being located in the mountainous region of Ise Province.
Currently, the Kiriyama Castle ruins, along with the Kitabatake clan residence ruins (present-day Kitabatake Shrine) at the foot of the mountain, are designated as a national historic site as the “Taki Kitabatake Clan Castle and Residence Ruins,” preserving valuable remains of a medieval mountain castle.
History of Kiriyama Castle
Construction and Development by the Kitabatake Clan
The history of Kiriyama Castle dates back to the Nanboku-cho period, specifically the 3rd year of Kōkoku/1st year of Kōei (1342). Kitabatake Akiyoshi, son of Kitabatake Chikafusa, a senior retainer of the Southern Court, built a residence in this area, located almost midway between Yoshino and Ise Grand Shrine, and constructed Kiriyama Castle on the mountaintop behind it.
The Taki Basin is a natural stronghold surrounded by rugged mountains, and the Kitabatake clan expanded their power by taking advantage of this geographical advantage. The Kitabatake clan employed a castle structure that allowed them to conduct daily affairs at their residence and retreat to Kiriyama Castle on the mountaintop during times of emergency, effectively separating peacetime from wartime.
Prosperity as Governors of Ise Province
The Kitabatake clan expanded their power as governors of Ise Province, becoming a major force with 16,000 cavalry at its peak. A castle town developed around Kiriyama Castle, with an estimated 3,500 houses. This indicates that it was not merely a mountain castle, but a large-scale fortified city encompassing the residence at the foot of the mountain, the castle town, and the main fort at the summit.
From the first lord, Akinori, to the eighth lord, Tomonori, the Kitabatake clan ruled Ise Province from this base for approximately 240 years. During this time, Kiriyama Castle reigned as a symbol of the Kitabatake clan’s power and played a central role in the political and military affairs of Ise Province.
Oda Nobunaga’s Invasion and the Fall of Kiriyama Castle
The fate of Kiriyama Castle changed dramatically at the end of the Sengoku period. Oda Nobunaga, aiming for the unification of Japan, began his invasion of Ise Province, and the Kitabatake clan was gradually pressured.
In 1569, Oda Nobunaga led a large army into Ise, capturing the Kitabatake clan’s branch castles one after another. At this time, Kiriyama Castle was attacked by the forces of Hashiba Hideyoshi (later Toyotomi Hideyoshi), Kambe Nobutaka, and Seki Morinobu. Although Kiriyama Castle was considered impregnable, the Kitabatake clan was forced to accept a peace agreement in the face of overwhelming military strength.
Ultimately, in 1576, during the reign of the ninth head of the clan, Kitabatake Tomofusa, the Kitabatake clan was destroyed in the “Mitsuse Incident,” and Kiriyama Castle was burned down and abandoned. This marked the end of the approximately 240-year rule of the Kitabatake clan and the history of Kiriyama Castle.
Kiriyama Castle’s Fortification Structure
Overall Layout and Defensive System
Kiriyama Castle was a complex fortification system with a three-tiered structure: the Kitabatake clan residence at the foot of the mountain, the Kitabatake clan’s fortified outpost behind it, and the main Kiriyama Castle at the summit.
In peacetime, the clan conducted their affairs at the residence at the foot of the mountain. In the event of an enemy invasion, they could retreat in stages to the fortified outpost and then to Kiriyama Castle. This multi-layered defensive system forced attackers to break through the defensive lines multiple times, allowing the defenders to buy time and resist.
Structure of the Main Enclosure
The main enclosure of Kiriyama Castle is located on the northern peak. The castle area consists of two remains, the northern and southern peaks, each with its own enclosure (kuruwa).
The main enclosures included the Honmaru (main keep), Yagura (watchtower), Komegura (rice storehouse), and Kanetsukido (bell tower). These enclosures were cleverly positioned to utilize the mountainous terrain, creating a structure that allowed for mutual support.
The Honmaru was the central enclosure of the castle, serving as the final defensive base for the lord and his retainers during a siege. The Yagura served as a lookout and attack base, the Komegura as a storage facility for provisions in preparation for a long siege, and the Kanetsukido functioned as a facility for announcing the time and issuing alarms.
Characteristics of Defensive Structures
The defensive structures of Kiriyama Castle exhibit typical characteristics of medieval mountain castles.
Earthworks: Earthworks were built around the enclosures, preventing enemy intrusion and allowing for attacks from above. Even today, remnants of these earthworks remain in good condition in various places.
Moat: Moats dug to cut off the ridges were important defensive structures that hindered enemy advances. At Kiriyama Castle, multiple moats have been identified, showcasing defensive techniques unique to mountain castles.
Horizontal Moats (Dry Moats): Horizontal moats were also positioned to protect the sides of the baileys, serving to prevent attacks from the flanks.
These defensive structures, combined with the castle’s high elevation of 560m, made Kiriyama Castle a formidable fortress, often described as “impregnable.”
Structure of the Castle Town
A large castle town developed at the foot of Kiriyama Castle. It is estimated that there were as many as 3,500 houses, indicating that it possessed considerable urban functions for its time.
The castle town spread across the central part of the Taki Basin, developing along the Ise Honkaido road. With the residences of merchants, artisans, and samurai, and the construction of temples and shrines, it functioned not merely as a military base, but as the political, economic, and cultural center of Ise Province.
This entire area, including the castle town, mountain castle, and residence, formed a large fortress known as “Kiriyama Castle,” which served as the foundation for the Kitabatake clan’s rule.
Current Highlights of Kiriyama Castle Ruins
National Historic Site “Taki Kitabatake Clan Castle Site”
The Kiriyama Castle ruins, along with the Kitabatake clan residence site (Kitabatake Shrine) at the foot of the mountain, are designated as a national historic site as the “Taki Kitabatake Clan Castle Site.” Recognized for its high historical value as a medieval castle site, it is currently undergoing restoration.
Due to its designation as a historic site, the remains are well-preserved, making it a valuable resource that conveys the appearance of a medieval mountain castle.
Ascent Route and Time Required
The most common starting point for climbing Kiriyama Castle is Kitabatake Shrine (Kitabatake Clan Residence Site). A hiking trail is maintained from the shrine, leading to the main Kiriyama Castle via the Kitabatake clan’s fortified residence.
The elevation difference from the foot of the mountain is approximately 240m, and since you will need to climb a mountain path, a certain level of physical fitness and time is required. It’s advisable to allow 2-3 hours for the round trip. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes such as hiking boots and bringing drinking water.
Highlights of the Ruins
Currently, the following ruins can be observed at the Kiriyama Castle site:
Kuruwa (Enclosure) Remains: The remains of enclosures such as the main keep, watchtower, rice storehouse, and bell tower are clearly preserved. The flat, leveled shape of the enclosures allows you to appreciate the scale of the castle at that time.
Earthworks: Earthworks built around each enclosure remain in good condition. Their height and width allow you to understand their function as defensive structures.
Moats and Ditches: Moats blocking the ridge and ditches (dry moats) protecting the enclosures can be seen in multiple locations. These are valuable remains that allow you to observe the defensive techniques unique to medieval mountain castles up close.
Stone Walls: Traces of stone walls can be seen in some areas, providing clues to the castle’s structure.
Magnificent Views
The view from the mountaintop at an altitude of 560m is magnificent, offering a panoramic view of the Taki Basin. You’ll understand why the Kitabatake clan chose this location as their base – the stunning views are a major factor.
On a clear day, you can see the surrounding mountains and the basin, reliving the scenery that the castle lords of the Sengoku period must have seen.
Visiting Kitabatake Shrine in conjunction with the castle ruins
When visiting the Kiriyama Castle ruins, you should definitely also visit Kitabatake Shrine at the foot of the mountain. Kitabatake Shrine is built on the site of the Kitabatake clan’s residence and displays items and documents related to the Kitabatake clan.
The shrine’s garden is designated a national scenic spot and is known as a valuable garden that preserves the style of the Muromachi period. Visiting both Kiriyama Castle and the Kitabatake Clan Residence allows you to understand the overall structure of the Kitabatake clan’s castle and their lifestyle.
Access Information to Kiriyama Castle
Location
Kamitake and Shimotake, Misugi-cho, Tsu City, Mie Prefecture
Access by Public Transportation
Get off at Ise-Okutsu Station on the JR Meisho Line, then take a taxi or bus to Kitabatake Shrine. However, public transportation is limited, so it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Access by Car
Approximately 40km from Hisai IC on the Ise Expressway via National Route 165. Parking is available at Kitabatake Shrine.
Estimated Visiting Time
- Visiting Kitabatake Shrine: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Climbing to Kiriyama Castle Ruins: 2 to 3 hours round trip
- Total: Approximately 3 to 4 hours
Successive Lords of Kiriyama Castle
Kiriyama Castle was ruled by the Kitabatake clan for generations. The main successive lords are as follows:
- Kitabatake Akiyoshi: First lord. 1. Kitabatake Akiyasu: Built Kiriyama Castle in the 3rd year of Kōkoku/1st year of Kōei (1342)
- Kitabatake Akiyasu: Second generation
- Kitabatake Mitsumasa: Third generation
- Kitabatake Noritomo: Fourth generation
- Kitabatake Masasato: Fifth generation
- Kitabatake Kichika: Sixth generation
- Kitabatake Harutomo: Seventh generation
- Kitabatake Tomonori: Eighth generation. Invaded by Oda Nobunaga in the 12th year of Eiroku (1569)
- Kitabatake Tomofusa: Ninth generation. Destroyed in the Mitsuse Incident of 1576 (Tensho 4)
Throughout approximately 240 years of rule by the Kitabatake clan, Kiriyama Castle continued to play an important role as the base of the Ise Provincial Governor.
Related Historical Sites of Kiriyama Castle and Surrounding Area
Kitabatake Shrine (Kitabatake Clan Residence Site)
Located at the foot of Kiriyama Castle, this is the site of the Kitabatake clan’s residence, now the Kitabatake Shrine. It is part of the national historic site “Taki Kitabatake Clan Castle Site,” and its garden is designated as a national scenic spot.
Kitabatake Clan Outpost Castle
Located midway between the Kitabatake clan residence and Kiriyama Castle, this outpost castle functioned as a relay point in times of emergency. Remains can be seen along the path leading to Kiriyama Castle.
Tamaru Castle
One of the Kitabatake clan’s branch castles, located in Tamaki-cho, Watarai-gun, Mie Prefecture. It is an important castle that demonstrates the Kitabatake clan’s sphere of influence. ### Ise Honkaido Road
This important road passed at the foot of Kiriyama Castle and served as a pilgrimage route from Osaka and Nara to Ise Grand Shrine. Controlling key points along this road was one of the bases of power for the Kitabatake clan.
Cultural Value of Kiriyama Castle
The Kiriyama Castle ruins possess high cultural value in the following respects:
A Typical Example of a Medieval Mountain Castle: Defensive structures such as earthworks, moats, and lateral trenches are well-preserved, making it a valuable resource for learning about the structure of medieval mountain castles.
A Unified Castle Structure: A three-tiered structure consisting of a residence at the foot of the mountain, an intermediate fortified castle, and a main castle at the summit has been confirmed, making it an important example for understanding medieval castle systems.
Telling the History of the Nanboku-cho and Sengoku Periods: As a site that tells the history of approximately 240 years from the Nanboku-cho period to the Sengoku period, it occupies an important position in the study of Japanese history.
Regional Historical Identity: As a site symbolizing the medieval history of Ise Province, it is an important cultural property that forms the historical identity of the region.
Points to Note When Visiting Kiriyama Castle
Clothing and Equipment
Kiriyama Castle is located on a mountaintop at an altitude of 560m, requiring a climb of 240m. The following equipment is recommended:
- Hiking boots or trekking shoes
- Comfortable clothing
- Drinking water
- Towel
- Rain gear (due to unpredictable weather)
- Insect repellent (depending on the season)
Best Season for Visiting
Spring to autumn is the best time to visit, but in summer, be mindful of the heat, and in winter, be aware of snow and ice. It is especially advisable to avoid the rainy season and typhoon season, as the ground can be slippery.
Estimated Time Required
Allow approximately 2-3 hours for the round trip and plan your itinerary with ample time. For those who are not confident in their physical strength, simply visiting the Kitabatake Clan Residence Ruins (Kitabatake Shrine) is well worth it.
Summary
Kiriyama Castle (Mie Prefecture) was a mountain castle that served as the base of the Kitabatake clan, the provincial governors of Ise Province, from the Nanboku-cho period to the Sengoku period. Built on a rugged site at an altitude of 560m and a relative height of 240m, it was an impregnable fortress.
From its construction in 1342 (Kōkoku 3/Kōei 1) until its fall in 1576 (Tenshō 4), it functioned as the residence of nine generations of the Kitabatake clan for approximately 240 years, and at its peak, it flourished as the center of a powerful force with 16,000 cavalrymen. Although it fell during Oda Nobunaga’s invasion of Ise, the remains such as earthworks, moats, and lateral trenches are still well-preserved and are protected as a national historic site, “Taki Kitabatake Clan Castle Ruins.”
The three-tiered structure of the castle—the Kitabatake clan residence (now Kitabatake Shrine) at the foot of the mountain, the intermediate fortified castle, and the main castle at the summit—is a valuable example for understanding medieval castle systems and a must-see historical site for castle enthusiasts and history buffs.
Located at a strategic point along the Ise Honkaido road, Kiriyama Castle functioned as the political, military, and economic center of Ise Province, making it an indispensable historical site for understanding Japanese medieval history. When visiting Mie Prefecture, be sure to pay a visit to this historic mountain castle.
