Japanese Castle Explorer

by Daniel O'Grady

       
Imjin War book cover The Baur Collection: Japanese Sword-Fittings and Associated Metalwork

Takatō Castle

Images: Fujinamiism

高遠藩

Takatō Domain


保科氏
1600 - 1631

Hoshina Clan

25,000 Koku

鳥居氏
1631 - 1691

Torii Clan

30,000 Koku

内藤氏
1691 - 1871

Naito Clan

33,000 Koku

高遠城
Takatō Castle is classified as a hilltop castle, and is located in Nagano Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Shinano Province. It is associated with the Takeda, Naitō clans. Dates in use: 1547 - 1872.

A mis-matched pair of gates & what would have to be the cutest turret in the history of Japanese castles in conjunction with the remaining moats & enclosures provide a very popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. Several original gates have survived but have been relocated off-site. The Ote gate has made its way back to the castle though, albeit in an altered form.

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

13?? The castle was built by the Kisō clan in around 1340.
1545 Takeda Shingen's soldiers successfully attacked the castle. Takato Yoritsugu became lord of the castle.
1547 Takeda Shingen ordered the castle be repaired & expanded.
1562 Takeda Katsuyori became lord of the castle.
1570 Katsuyori was transferred to Tsutsujigasaki Yakata. Takeda Nobukado became lord of the castle.
1582 The castle fell to the Oda clan.
1691 The Naitō clan were transferred here. Eight subsequent generations ruled the castle until it was eventually abandoned.
1872 The castle was abandoned. All building were removed or dismantled.
1902 The Taiko Turret was reconstructed.

Historical recognition

SiteNational Historic Site