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Kitanosho Castle
36.0601° N, 136.2197° E
About
Kitanosho Castle, built in 1575 by Shibata Katsuie, was a prominent flatland castle located in present-day Fukui, Japan. Characterized by its impressive nine-story tenshu (keep), it was the largest of its time. Despite its grandeur, the castle's existence was short-lived, lasting only eight years. It was destroyed in 1583 following Shibata Katsuie's defeat in the Battle of Shizugatake against Toyotomi Hideyoshi. In a tragic turn, Katsuie committed seppuku after killing his wife, Oichi. Archaeological excavations have uncovered a few stone foundations of the castle, which are now accessible to the public. Kitanosho Castle serves as a significant historical site, reflecting the turbulent times of the Sengoku period in Japan.
Gallery
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Historical Timeline
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Castle Construction
1575 CE
Castle Destruction
1583 CE
Archaeological Features
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Defensive Structures
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