Japanese Castle Explorer

by Daniel O'Grady

       
Strongholds of the Samurai: Japanese Castles 250-1877 Castles of the Samurai: Power and Beauty

Minakuchi Castle

Images: Japan - Photo

水口藩

Minakuchi Domain


加藤氏
1682 - 1695

Katō Clan

20,000 Koku

鳥居氏
1695 - 1712

Torii Clan

20,000 Koku

加藤氏
1712 - 1871

Katō Clan

25,000 Koku

水口城
Minakuchi Castle is classified as a flatland castle, and is located in Shiga Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Ōmi Province. It is associated with the Katō clan. Dates in use: 1634 - 1873.

The third Tokugawa Shogun, Iemitsu, had this castle built to fulfill a rather specific role. It was to serve as a rest stop when traveling between Kyōto & the capital of Edo. The Shogun actually only stayed there once & even the lords who were stationed here during the life of the castle didn't use the palace but had their lodgings in the second enclosure.

Google Map Views (グーグルマップ)


Best view ベストビュー
Orbit view 軌道ビュー

Timeline

1634 The castle was constructed.
1682 Katō Akitomo was stationed here.
1695 The Torii clan were stationed here.
1712 The Katō clan were once again stationed here.
1713 The Honmaru Palace was removed by order of the Shogunate.
1875 The castle was abandoned.

Historical recognition

SitePrefectural Historic Site