Kiyosu Castle: A historic fortress with ties to Oda Nobunaga

The origins and early history of Kiyosu Castle

Kiyosu Castle's story begins in the late 14th century, during the Muromachi Period. Built between 1394 and 1427 by Shiba Yoshishige, the castle was strategically located to guard the junction of the Ise Kaidō and Nakasendō highways, which connected Kyoto with Kamakura. This prime location made Kiyosu Castle a vital stronghold in the region.

Initially, the castle served as a defensive structure to protect Orizu Castle, the seat of Owari's provincial government. However, after the destruction of Orizu Castle in 1478 during a civil war between Oda clan factions, Kiyosu Castle gained prominence. Oda Nobuhide, Nobunaga's father, shifted his seat of power to Kiyosu, bringing prosperity to the city and ruling over the four counties of lower Owari Province from this strategic location.

The castle's early history was marked by political intrigue and power struggles. After Nobuhide's death in 1551, control of Kiyosu Castle became a point of contention within the Oda clan. Nobunaga's uncle, Oda Nobutomo, briefly took control of the castle in 1553 with the support of Shiba Yoshimune. However, this alliance was short-lived, and the following year saw a dramatic turn of events that would shape the castle's future.

Kiyosu Castle, Aichi Prefecture

Kiyosu Castle's role in Oda Nobunaga's rise to power

The year 1555 marked a turning point in Kiyosu Castle's history, as it came under the control of the ambitious young warlord, Oda Nobunaga. After learning of an assassination plot from Shiba Yoshimune, Nobunaga took decisive action. He retook Kiyosu Castle, capturing his uncle Nobutomo and forcing him to commit suicide. This bold move established Nobunaga's dominance and set the stage for his future conquests.

Kiyosu Castle became Nobunaga's primary base of operations, serving as a springboard for his military campaigns to unify Japan. It was from here that he launched the famous Battle of Okehazama in 1560, where he defeated the much larger Imagawa army, solidifying his reputation as a brilliant strategist. The castle also played a crucial role in subsequent battles, including Anegawa (1570) and Nagashino (1575).

In 1562, Kiyosu Castle was the site of a significant political alliance. Nobunaga met with Tokugawa Ieyasu, sealing a pact that would shape the future of Japan. This alliance, known as the Kiyosu Alliance, lasted for nearly 20 years and was instrumental in Nobunaga's efforts to consolidate power. The castle continued to serve as Nobunaga's home base until 1563 when he relocated to Komaki Castle and later to the larger Gifu Castle.

Architecture and layout of the original Kiyosu Castle

The original Kiyosu Castle was an impressive structure, befitting its status as the seat of power for the Owari region. While no plans or illustrations of the original castle have survived, historical records provide some insights into its layout and features. The castle grounds were expansive, covering an area approximately 1.6 kilometers east to west and 2.8 kilometers north to south.

The castle's defenses were formidable, featuring a complex system of moats and walls. It had an outer, central, and inner moat system, providing multiple layers of protection against potential invaders. The main keep, or donjon, was likely a multi-story structure similar to other castles of the period, such as Nagoya Castle.

One of the most distinctive features of Kiyosu Castle was its golden shachi, or kinshachi. These mythical orca-like creatures, believed to protect the castle from fire, adorned the roof of the main keep. The original kinshachi, impressive at 1.2 meters in height and covered with three layers of gold, now reside at Sofukuji Temple in Gifu city.

The decline and demolition of Kiyosu Castle

The fate of Kiyosu Castle took a dramatic turn in the early 17th century. Following the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, which established Tokugawa Ieyasu as the dominant power in Japan, the castle changed hands several times. It was briefly held by Fukushima Masanori before being assigned to Tokugawa Ieyasu's 4th son, Matsudaira Tadayoshi.

However, the castle's days as a center of power were numbered. In 1609, Tokugawa Ieyasu ordered the relocation of the seat of government to the newly constructed Nagoya Castle. This decision marked the beginning of the end for Kiyosu Castle. Between 1609 and 1613, most of the buildings were dismantled, and their materials were used in the construction of Nagoya Castle.

The dismantling of Kiyosu Castle was a carefully orchestrated process. Many of its architectural elements found new homes in other structures. The northwest turret of Nagoya Castle's Ofukemaru fortress, known as the "Kiyosu Yagura," was constructed using parts from Kiyosu Castle's donjon. Other elements, such as gates and decorated sliding doors, were preserved in various temples in the region.

The 1989 reconstruction: A modern tribute to history

For centuries, little remained of the once-mighty Kiyosu Castle. The site gradually faded into obscurity, with only earthworks in the former main bailey hinting at its glorious past. The Meiji period saw further changes to the landscape, with the tracks for the Tōkaidō Main Line railway laid directly across the former castle grounds.

However, in 1989, Kiyosu City decided to revive this important piece of local history. To mark the centennial of the modern town's foundation, a reinforced concrete replica of the castle keep was constructed. While not an exact replica of the original structure, the reconstruction was based on the donjon of nearby Inuyama Castle, which is considered representative of the period.

Today, the reconstructed Kiyosu Castle stands as a proud symbol of the city, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The four-story structure, complete with golden shachi roof ornaments, houses a local history museum featuring displays of arms, armor, and artifacts related to the castle's storied past. The reconstruction has breathed new life into the site, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of a feudal Japanese castle.

Kiyosu Castle just outside Nagoya city is a replica castle erected in 1989

Exploring Kiyosu Castle and its surroundings today

Visiting Kiyosu Castle today offers a rich and immersive experience for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. The castle grounds have been transformed into an engaging historical park, providing multiple attractions and points of interest. As you approach the castle, you'll cross the ornamental Otebashi Bridge, which is illuminated along with the castle at night, creating a stunning visual display.

Inside the castle, visitors can explore four floors of exhibits detailing the history of Kiyosu and its famous occupants. The first floor features an impressive display of samurai armor, including unique pieces made from recycled beer cans, which visitors are encouraged to try on for photos. As you ascend the polished wooden stairs, you'll encounter rooms showcasing Yayoi Period pottery, swords, and photographs of other major Japanese Castles.

The castle's top floor provides panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the modern skyline of Nagoya. From here, you can see Midland Square and the skyscrapers around Nagoya Station, offering a striking contrast between feudal and modern Japan. The castle grounds also feature a pleasant stone garden, pine trees, and an ornamental carp pond, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Kiyosu Castle stone garden is located just outside the main entrance to the castle

Kiyosu Castle's cultural significance and legacy

Kiyosu Castle's importance extends far beyond its physical structure. It represents a crucial period in Japanese history, serving as a tangible link to the era of warring states and the rise of Oda Nobunaga. The castle's legacy is celebrated annually during the Kiyosu Furusato Festival, held on Taiku no Hi (Sports Day) in early October. This event features a parade with participants dressed in traditional samurai attire, bringing the castle's history to life.

The area surrounding the castle still retains traces of its past glory. Visitors can explore the old wooden houses of Kiyosu and take a peaceful stroll along the Gojyo River, imagining the bustling castle town that once existed here. Nearby Kiyosu Koen Park, where the original castle stood, features a bronze statue of Oda Nobunaga, further emphasizing the area's historical significance.

Today, Kiyosu Castle stands not just as a tourist attraction, but as a symbol of Japan's rich cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of its samurai past. It continues to inspire visitors with its tales of ambition, strategy, and the relentless pursuit of power that characterized the Sengoku period. Whether you're a history buff, a arts and craftsenthusiast, or simply curious about Japanese culture, Kiyosu Castle offers a fascinating journey through time.

To learn more about Kiyosu Castle and plan your visit, check out these resources:

• Kiyosu Castle History
• Kiyosu Castle Access
• Kiyosu Castle Video
• Books on Japan & Japanese Castles

Kiyosu Castle is easily accessible from Nagoya Station, making it a perfect day trip for those exploring the Aichi region. Don't miss the opportunity to step back in time and experience the legacy of one of Japan's most influential historical figures at Kiyosu Castle.