Hagi Castle - Sotobori

The Sotobori, or outer moat, of Hagi Castle is a vital yet often overlooked aspect of the castle's defenses. While many visitors may stop by the North Gate (Kito-no-soumon 北の総門), they often bypass the rest of this critical defensive system. The outer moat connects the bay to the north of the castle

Hagi Castle - Outer Moat

外堀

The Sotobori, or outer moat, of Hagi Castle is a vital yet often overlooked aspect of the castle's defenses. While many visitors may stop by the North Gate (Kito-no-soumon 北の総門), they often bypass the rest of this critical defensive system. The outer moat connects the bay to the north of the castle with the Hashimoto River to the south, effectively cutting off the peninsula at the San-no-maru bailey. With only three gates across the outer moat, it formed a formidable defensive line. Guards carefully inspected those passing through during the day, and at night the gates were shuttered and locked.

North Gate (北の総門) This gate has been meticulously preserved and reconstructed. The gate's proximity to the Masuda Yagura underscores how these two structures worked together to protect this area. The North Gate was reconstructed in 2004 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the castle's founding.

Middle Gate (中の総門) The Middle Gate is often overlooked by visitors heading toward the Hagi Museum, located just across the moat. The bridge features well preserved stonework just below. Across the river, a crook in the road and reconstructed clay walls hint at the gate area's defenses. The reconstructed yagura of the Hagi Museum adds further context to what the original fortifications may have looked like.

Hiyako gate (平安門) The stone foundation is original to when the castle and gate were built. Originally it had a wooden bridge but was replaced by a stone bridge in the late 1700's. While the bridge is fairly small, it is rare in that it has no "legs" foundation.

In 1871, the Meiji government ordered the gates destroyed, and the San-no-maru was opened to the public. This act symbolized the end of samurai rule in Hagi, marking a new direction in the city's history.

Gallery

North Gate

Middle Gate

Middle Gate ruins

Hiyako Gate

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Hagi Castle - Sotobori

Hagi Castle - Outer Moat

外堀

Gallery

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