A Rare Relic Preserving Ancient Defensive Structures
The Aoyama Castle Ruins, located in Kitakata City’s Kamisanomachi district, are believed to have been built during the Kamakura period by Miura Moritoki or his descendants. Historical records indicate that Moritoki ruled over this region, with Aoyama Castle serving as one of his strongholds.
The castle was originally composed of two sections, east and west, but today only the western fortifications remain. The current site measures approximately 170 meters east-west and 300 meters north-south, with flat areas surrounded by earthworks and moats once serving as residential spaces. At the top of the ruins is Sanno Shrine, and it is speculated that observation towers and arrow stands once stood on the surrounding embankments.
In the vicinity of the castle ruins, you’ll find historical sites such as Hie Shrine and the Grave of the Legendary Sawara Juro Yoshitsura, providing visitors with a deeper connection to the area's history and culture.
