Tsubokasayama Castle

I was thwarted 3 other times that I tried to visit for snow or rain. It is not one of the easier castles to find either since it is not marked on maps and even the trail goes right by it without pointing out the castle. You need to find the purple ribbon marked trees along the trail and just start c

History

Tsubokasayama Castle was the base for the combined Asakura・Azai forces in their attacks on Kyoto in 1570 (Shiga no jin). From the castle, they could easily get to the top of Mt Hiei (Enryakuji) via the Shiratori-goe pass and drop down to attack northern Kyoto. They could connect to the Yamanaka-goe pass for for the same and enter around modern day Ginkakuji. Of course they can and did attack Oda aligned forces at Usayama Castle too but were unable to defeat it.

Field Notes

I was thwarted 3 other times that I tried to visit for snow or rain. It is not one of the easier castles to find either since it is not marked on maps and even the trail goes right by it without pointing out the castle. You need to find the purple ribbon marked trees along the trail and just start climbing finding your way up the last 50m or so of elevation. The rest of the trail goes on to the top of Mt Hiei (or Yumemigaoka) so don't miss it! I've heard of others trying to reach the castle only ending up at the top of Mat Hiei. Check the photos and GPS locations below so you can find the right place too.

The castle itself is mainly one bailey at the top of the circular mountaintop (which was also the site of an old kofun burial tomb). Around the main bailey are a few partial koshiguruwa or obikuruwa baileys and two entrances to the castle. Around these side baileys you will find most of the stone wall remains. I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of stonework and ruined walls scattered about the site.

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Gallery

Castle Profile
English Name	Tsubokasayama Castle
Japanese Name	壺笠山城
Founder
Year Founded
Castle Type	Mountaintop
Castle Condition	Ruins only
Historical Period	Pre Edo Period
Features	stone walls
Visitor Information
Access
Hours
Time Required
Location	, Shiga Prefecture
Coordinates	35.05565, 135.8515
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Admin
Added to Jcastle	2024
Contributor	Eric
Admin Year Visited	2024
Admin Visits	February 4, 2024

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