Kanayama Castle is classified as a mountain castle, and is located in Gunma Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Kōzuke Province. It is associated with the Iwamatsu clan. Dates in use: 1469 - 1590.

This castle is recognized as a castle of great significance, both in the Kantō region & nationally. It was also included as one of Japan's top 100 castles. Kanayama Castle proved virtually impossible to capture after numerous attempts to do so failed, such was the strength of its location & design.

Despite its obvious strengths, following the defeat of the Hōjō clan by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle was decommissioned.

Timeline

1469	The castle was build by the Iwamatsu clan who ruled over it for the following 60 years.
1528	The Yokose clan, who were retainers of the Iwamatsu clan, were given control of the castle.
1574	The castle was laid siege to by Uesugi Kenshin's armies.
1580	The castle was laid siege to by Takeda Katsuyori's armies.
1583	The castle was laid siege to by Satake Yorishige's armies.
1584	The Hōjō had captured some people of status, including the lord of Tatebayashi castle. They were set free when control of the castle was relinquished to the Hōjō clan.
1590	Toyotomi Hideyoshi destroyed the Hōjō and the castle was abandoned.

Historical recognition

Site	National Historic Site