* Image is for illustrative purposes only.Kozuki Castle
上月城
Kozuki Castle is a historic castle in the Kansai region (Built 1336 (Engen 1); fell and abandoned 1578 (Tenshō 6)). Its lord was Kozuki Kagemori (founder); Akamatsu Masanori; Amago Katsuhisa and Yamanaka Shikanosuke.
Overview
Overview
Kozuki Castle is a renkaku-style mountain castle in Sayo Town, Hyogo Prefecture, with no tenshu. It is known as the castle where Yamanaka Shikanosuke and the Amago restoration army held out.
Construction
It was built in 1336 (Engen 1) by Kozuki Kagemori, a member of the Akamatsu clan.
Succession of Lords
Control passed repeatedly between the Yamana and Akamatsu clans. In 1557 Akamatsu Masamoto entered from Okishio Castle; his son Masanori ruled western Harima and was called the "lord of western Harima." In 1577 (Tenshō 5) the castle fell to Hashiba Hideyoshi's attack, with Kuroda Kanbei said to have played an active role.
Historical Events
Hideyoshi placed Amago Katsuhisa and Yamanaka Shikanosuke in the castle, but in April 1578 it was besieged by Mōri forces under Kobayakawa, Kikkawa, and others. After a siege of over two months Katsuhisa committed suicide, and Shikanosuke was captured and killed while being taken to the Mōri camp. The castle was abandoned afterward.
Present Condition
Earthen ramparts, stone walls, and dry moats remain, along with memorial towers for the Akamatsu and Amago clans.
Connection to Swords
No source tying the castle to a specific sword has been confirmed. It was the stage of the Sengoku clash between the Amago restoration army and the Mōri.
Highlights
- Built in 1336 by Kozuki Kagemori of the Akamatsu clan
- Fell to Hashiba Hideyoshi in 1577
- Held by Amago Katsuhisa and Yamanaka Shikanosuke until its fall in 1578
- Earthen ramparts, stone walls, dry moats, and memorial towers survive
* Opening hours and admission fees are subject to change. Please check the official website before visiting.