
Images: Daniel O'Grady
杵築藩
Kitsuki Domain
小笠原氏

Ogasawa Clan
40,000 Koku
松平 (能見)

Matsudaira (Nōmi) Clan
32,000 Koku
杵築城
Kitsuki Castle is classified as a hilltop castle (its layout: Renkakushiki), and is located in Ōita Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Bungo Province. It is associated with the Kitsuki, Matsudaira clans. Dates in use: 1393 - 1871.
This small castle has a relatively long & eventful past. In its time it has seen fierce battles between the Ōtomo & the Shimazu clans and been the residence to some other very notable ones. It has also been on the receiving end of butt-whippings dished out by mother nature. While this is all very interesting & historical, the castle probably shouldn't be on your to-see list unless you live nearby, or you are an absolute maniac when it comes to Japanese castles.
The nearby samurai quarter is sizable & quite well preserved. This stands in contrast to the rebuilt gate & main tower which are of questionable historical interest. Within the main tower are items relating to its past & its former lords.
Timeline
1394 | Fortifications were constructed here by Kitsuki Yorinao and completed one year later. 14 generations of the Kitsuki clan followed. |
1593 | In the space of just 6 years, the residing lord changed three times. |
1596 | The castle heavily damaged in an earthquake. |
1597 | The castle received further damage during a severe storm. After this, additional buildings were built at the Northern base of the mountain where administration of the domain could be carried out. |
1599 | The Hosokawa clan were transferred here. |
1608 | The main tower was struck by lightning & burnt to the ground. It was never rebuilt. |
1632 | The Ogasawara clan then were awarded the castle. After a very short time the Matsudaira clan took over & 10 generations remained here until the Meiji period. |
1645 | Buildings at the top of the mountain ceased to be used. |
1970 | The concrete main tower was rebuilt . |