玖島城
Kushima Castle is classified as a hilltop castle, and is located in Nagasaki Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Hizen Province. It is associated with the Ōmura clan. Dates in use: 1599 - 1871.
The Ōmura clan relocated their main castle here from nearby Sanjō castle to take take advantage of its proximity to the sea and in turn foreign trade. The Kushima Castle grounds have been turned into parkland. Extensive stone walls & a rebuilt turret remain.
The remnant stone walls are in magnificent shape. They were never the biggest or most imposing but their appearance is very consistent & remain solid. An interesting feature of this castle is the Ana gate which is a tunnel-like gate which bores its way through the stone walls.
Timeline
1599 | Built by the Ōmura clan. |
1614 | The castle was expanded & repairs were made. As the stonework has the graceful shape of a fan Its construction has been attributed to Katō Kiyomasa. |
1871 | The castle was abandoned. |
1992 | The Itajiki turret was reconstructed. |
Historical recognition
Site | Prefectural Historic Site |