Akagi Castle Ruins: A Glimpse into Kumano's Past

Akagi Castle, located in the Kiwa neighborhood of Kumano, Mie Prefecture, offers a fascinating look into Japan's Sengoku period. Built around 1589 by Tōdō Takatora, a vassal of Toyotomi Hidenaga, the castle was intended to suppress local rebellions. The castle's design uniquely combines medieval and early modern castle-building techniques. Situated at an elevation of 230 meters in a small basin surrounded by the Kii Mountains, the castle ruins provide scenic views.The castle features a series of three curved embankments surrounding the inner bailey, a typical layout for Sengoku period castles. However, it also incorporates more modern elements like stone walls and fortified gateways. After being featured on television and in photographs showcasing the castle amidst a sea of fog, the site has gained popularity, drawing many visitors. The Akagi Castle ruins were extensively excavated and renovated between 1992 and 2004. In 2017, it was listed as one of the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles.Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, which include remnants of stone walls and clay walls. The site is also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot, with many cherry trees planted around the main building. The Tahirako Pass Execution Ground, where rebels were executed, is also part of the National Historic Site.