Hayashitaniyama Fort
At first glance, Hayashitaniyama Fort may appear deceptively simple, but when considered in the broader context of the battlefield and Shibata’s defensive strategy, it becomes a fascinating site. This is the first ridge encountered after ascending the mountain, and it plays a critical role in the la
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History
Hayashitaniyama Fort was one of several mountaintop forts constructed by Shibata Katsuie's general along the Mt. Gyoichi mountain range leading up to the Battle of Shizugatake in 1583. It was commanded by Fuwa Naomitsu.
See Battle of Shizugatake for more details.
Field Notes
At first glance, Hayashitaniyama Fort may appear deceptively simple, but when considered in the broader context of the battlefield and Shibata’s defensive strategy, it becomes a fascinating site. This is the first ridge encountered after ascending the mountain, and it plays a critical role in the larger network of fortifications. A single embankment runs roughly north to south for an impressive 480 meters, facing outward toward the Hokkoku Kaidō and the valley below. On the outer slope of this embankment is a narrow inubashiri (dog run), which drops steeply down to the valley floor—strongly suggesting this was designed as a frontline bulwark protecting the entire Shibata defensive line leading up to Gyoichiyama Fort. About midway along the ridge sits a square-shaped bailey, which may have served as a lookout post, seiroyagura watchtower or command station, reinforcing the fort’s strategic importance.
Gallery
| Castle Profile | |
|---|---|
| English Name | Hayashitaniyama Fort |
| Japanese Name | 林谷山砦 |
| Founder | Shibata Katsuie |
| Year Founded | 1583 |
| Castle Type | Mountaintop |
| Castle Condition | Ruins only |
| Historical Period | Pre Edo Period |
| Features | |
| Visitor Information | |
| Access | JR Yogo Sta., 4.5km to trailhead |
| Hours | Mountain trails, limited signage, lightly marked trail |
| Time Required | 30 mins |
| Hiking Trail | View on Yamap |
| Location | Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture |
| Coordinates | 35.56815, 136.19018 |
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| Admin | |
| Added to Jcastle | 2025 |
| Contributor | Eric |
| Admin Year Visited | 2025 |
| Admin Visits | April 27, 2025 |
| Friends of JCastle | |
| Jokaku Horoki | |
