
Images: JapanDave
岡崎藩
Okazaki Domain
本多氏

Honda Clan
50,000 Koku
水野氏

Mizuno Clan
50,000 Koku
松平 (松井)

Matsudaira (Matsui) Clan
54,000 Koku
本多氏

Honda Clan
50,000 Koku
岡崎城
Okazaki Castle is classified as a hilltop castle (its layout: Teikakushiki), and is located in Aichi Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Mikawa Province. It is associated with the Honda, Mizuno clans. Dates in use: 1531 - 1873.
Yes, it is a concrete reconstruction but it is a site of some significance as it was the birthplace of one of Japan's most well-known historical figures, Matsudaira Takechiyo, better known to the world as Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Remaining today are sections of stonework & moat. As at early 2010, a turret had been rebuilt. And, as described to me by David LaSpina (who I thank for use of these photos) the turret sits in the middle of the car park.
Timeline
1455 | Fortifications were first built nearby by the Saigō clan. |
1531 | Matsudaira Kiyoyasu, after gaining control of the area, built a small fort at the castle's present site approximately the size of the main enclosure. |
1542 | An infant, later to be known as Tokugawa Ieyasu, was born. |
1549 | The Matsudaira lord of the castle was killed. The castle then became the possession of the Imagawa clan, the young Ieyasu becoming hostage. |
1560 | The Battle of Okehazama. Following Imagawa Yoshimoto's death, Ieyasu gained possession of the castle. |
1570 | Ieyasu moved his headquarters to Hamamatsu Castle. |
1590 | The castle was once again improved with the incorporation of stone-clad walls. The castle town was also developed. |
1617 | A three-story main tower was built. |
1873 | The castle was decommissioned. |
1874 | The buildings were demolished. |
1959 | The several buildings of the main enclosure were rebuilt using concrete. |
1993 | The Omote Gate was rebuilt. |
2007 | Further excavations were completed. |
2010 | The Higashi-sumi Turret was rebuilt using traditional materials & methods. |