Hizen Nagoya Castle is classified as a hilltop castle (its layout: Teikakushiki), and is located in Saga Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Hizen Province. It is associated with the Toyotomi clan. Dates in use: 1591 - 1598.

This castle is unique in Japan in that it served as a base to attack foreign lands. Toyotomi Hideyoshi had his sights not only on Korea but also China. These castle ruins are the largest remaining ruins from the Momoyama period with several well-defined enclosures remaining intact.

After Hideyoshi's death, plans for domination of Korea & China were scrapped, as was this castle. Hizen Nagoya castle was dismantled & used to construct Karatsu castle. Also the steel gates of Nagoya castle were moved to Sendai castle but were destroyed during World War II.

Timeline

1591	Construction completed.
1592	First attempt at the invasion of Korea. The campaign was co-led by the Konishi & the Kato clans, both of Higo province.
1597	The second attempt was broken off after Hideyoshi's death in 1598.
1598	Following Toyotomi Hideyoshi's death both the Korean campaign & the castle were abandoned.
1926	Designated a National historic site.
1955	Designated a Special historic site.

Historical recognition

Site	Special National Historic Site