Trekking on Kaneda Castle Ruins offers a great way to explore history, immerse yourself in nature, and experience the beauty of Tsushima all together.
About: Kaneda Castle Ruins Trek
Kaneda Castle (Kanatanoki-Kaneda-jo) in Tsushima City, Nagasaki Prefecture, is one of Japan’s oldest ancient mountain castles with a history spanning over 1,350 years. Built by the Yamato Imperial Court after their defeat in the Baekgang (or Battle of Hakusukinoe), the castle was part of a series of fortifications constructed across western Japan to defend against potential attacks from the continent. Tsushima, located in the northernmost border island of Kyushu, became a key defense point and Kaneda Castle was established as part of this strategic effort.
The site was originally protected by stone mounds and natural cliffs. However, during the Battle of Russo-Japanese War, the area gained renewed importance, leading to the construction of modern fortifications. Today, visitors can still see remnants of stone fortifications and gun emplacements at the site that served as a national defense stronghold twice.
This is the “Kaneda Castle Stone Wall,” a spot offering a stunning view of Kurose Bay below. The sheer strength of the ancient wall, which has stood for over 1,350 years, allows you to imagine the impressive sight it must have been in its prime.
Highlights:
The trail to the summit of Kaneda Castle rises 276 meters, offering a gentle and relatively easy trekking course. A carriage road was built on the ruins of a gun battery near the top, making hiking accessible. The distance from the trailhead to the summit is approximately 2.4 km one way, taking about an hour each way.
For a more enriching experience, we highly recommend joining a guided tour during your trek. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history and nature and lose track of time as you learn about the area’s fascinating background.
The trekking course offers many scenic spots, but the best view awaits at the top, where you can see Aso Bay, dotted with islands of various sizes. When visiting Kaneda Castle, be sure to take your time to fully enjoy both the natural beauty and rich history of the area.
Location and Official Website:
Name: Kaneda Castle Ruins Trekking Tour {金田城トレッキング}
Address: Kurose Mitsujimacho, Tsushima City, Nagasaki Prefecture
Guide to Kaneda Castle (Japanese)
Information is current at the time of publication. Opening hours may change or the restaurant may be closed depending on the facility. Please check the official website before visiting.
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