Japanese Castle Explorer

by Daniel O'Grady

       
Strongholds of the Samurai: Japanese Castles 250-1877 Japanese Castles 1540-1640

Akō Castle

Images: Daniel O'Grady

赤穂藩

Akō Domain


池田氏
1615 - 1645

Ikeda Clan

35,000 Koku

浅野氏
1645 - 1701

Asano Clan

53,000 Koku

永井氏
1701 - 1706

Nagai Clan

35,000 Koku

森氏
1706 - 1871

Mori Clan

20,000 Koku

赤穂城
Akō Castle is classified as a flatland castle (its layout: Bastion), and is located in Hyōgo Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Harima Province. It is associated with the Ikeda, Asano, Mori clans. Dates in use: 1649 - 1873.

The actions of the lord of this castle, Asano Naganori, sparked one of the most infamous incidents of the Edo period. His attempted murder of the head of the Kira clan would see both their clans dispossessed & saw them both put to death, albeit one much later than the first. Naganori didn't see the end of the day while Kira Yoshinaka was assassinated over a year later.

Strolling through the castle grounds, you get the sense that Ako castle isn't one of Japan's more formidable castles. The walls & buildings don't tower over you like at other (even smaller) castles. A lot of walking is necessary though, as the points of interest really are spread about the place. The castle seems to be in a long, drawn-out state of rebuilding with just completed & some yet-to-be-completed work here and there.

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

1645 The Asano clan were transferred here.
1648 Asano Naganao commenced construction of the castle.
1661 The castle was completed.
1701 The Nagai clan were stationed here.
1706 The Mori clan were stationed here.
1873 The castle was abandoned.
1996 The Yagura Gate of the main enclosure was restored.
2001 The Umayaguchi Gate was restored.

Historical recognition

SiteNational Historic Site