Shimameshiya Hokuto
Kasumaki: A celebratory sweet passed down in Tsushima since the Edo period.
What are the Kaneda Castle Ruins?
Kaneda Castle is an ancient mountain fortress site located on Mount Joyama (elevation: 276 meters) in Mitsushima-machi, Tsushima City, Nagasaki Prefecture. Built in the year 667 by order of Prince Naka no Oe (later Emperor Tenji) following a major military defeat at the Battle of Hakusukinoe during the Asuka period, it served as a frontline defense outpost against potential invasions from the Tang and Silla dynasties. Today, the site is designated as a National Special Historic Site. It functions as a popular trekking destination where preserved historical ruins sit within a natural forest setting, attracting hikers and military history enthusiasts alike.
Highlights of Kaneda Castle Ruins
The main feature of the trek is the large stone walls (sekirui) built over 1,300 years ago, which run along the slopes of the mountain. These ancient stone structures were originally constructed by sakimori (garrison soldiers deployed for coastal defense).
From the summit, the trail opens up to a view overlooking the ria coastline of Aso Bay. In addition to the ancient Asuka-period ruins, the mountain contains modern brick artillery batteries and trenches built by the Imperial Japanese Army prior to the Russo-Japanese War, resulting in an unusual mix of military fortifications from two entirely different historical eras on a single site.
In addition to the ancient mountain ruins, the site contains modern artillery batteries and trenches built by the Japanese military prior to the Russo-Japanese War, offering a look at military fortifications from two completely different eras on the same mountain.
How to Enjoy Your Visit
The trailhead in the Kurose area is located approximately a 25-minute drive from Tsushima Airport.
The initial portion of the trek follows a relatively gentle military road originally cleared for moving heavy artillery. Along this path, hikers can view the remains of three historical gates (kido), which functioned as floodgates. The route eventually transitions into a standard, narrower mountain trail. The entire round trip takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours, making it an accessible route for casual hikers and beginners.
At the summit, a small clearing provides a vantage point over Aso Bay where hikers often stop to rest. Because there are no vending machines, convenience stores, or restroom facilities along the mountain trail or at the summit, hikers must use the restrooms at the trailhead and bring adequate water and provisions before starting the ascent. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking sneakers are required.
Basic Information
・Name: Kaneda Castle Ruins
・Operating Hours: Open at all times (Hiking during daylight hours is highly recommended for safety purposes).
・Closed: Open year-round
・Price: Free
・Parking: Available (A small, free parking area is located at the Kurose trailhead).
Access
・Address: Mt. Joyama, Kurose, Mitsushima-machi, Tsushima-shi, Nagasaki Prefecture
By Public Transport: Not recommended due to the distance from the nearest bus stops (Car rental or taxi is advised).
By Car: Approximately 25 minutes from Tsushima Airport, or about 35 minutes from Izuhara Port.a Port.
Nearby Ryokan
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