Images: JapanDave
岡崎藩
Okazaki Domain
本多氏
1601 - 1645
Honda Clan
50,000 Koku
水野氏
1645 - 1762
Mizuno Clan
50,000 Koku
松平 (松井)
1762 - 1769
Matsudaira (Matsui) Clan
54,000 Koku
本多氏
1769 - 1871
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. |