Yoshida-Koriyama Castle Ruins

Yoshida Koriyama Castle Ruins are the remains of a castle in Akitakata City, Hiroshima Prefecture, and are said to have been the main residence of the Mori clan, Sengoku-period warlords of Aki Province. They are designated as a National Historic Site under the names "Mori Clan Castle Ruins," "Tajihi Sarugake Castle Ruins," and "Koriyama Castle Ruins." In its early days, the fortress was shaped more like a simple stronghold, but as the Mori clan expanded its power, it grew into a full-scale castle complex. This mountain castle ruin, which also served as the stage for the Battle of Yoshida Koriyama Castle, is known as a castle that withstood a siege by 20,000 troops and successfully repelled them. The site includes the graves of the Mori family as well as monuments such as the stone stele of the Three Arrows legend and the Hyakuman Isshin Monument. The inscription reads "Hyakuman Isshin" but can also be read as "Ichinichi Ichiriki Isshin," and it is said to suggest that if people share the same timing, the same strength, and the same heart, anything can be achieved—an idea believed to have helped bring construction projects to success. The castle is said to have stood at an elevation of about 390 meters, and what sets it apart from other castles is its kuruwa (baileys). To get to Yoshida Koriyama Castle Ruins, take a bus for about 25 minutes from Mukaihara Station on the JR Geibi Line, get off at "Akitakata City Hall-mae" bus stop, and walk about 5 minutes. Also, please note that it is closed on Mondays.