When it comes to symbols of Aizu, the beautifully towering "Tsuruga Castle (Aizuwakamatsu Castle)" comes to mind.
Have you ever looked up at the castle and felt, "How beautiful," when seeing the layered, wave-like roofs and the protruding bay windows?
In fact, that elegant design hides a "terrifying military calculation to efficiently annihilate enemies" rather than just being a decoration.
This time, we will guide you through the deep codes and mysteries of Tenshu architecture that will completely change your perspective on castles.
[Mystery 1] Why did only Nobunaga write "Tenshu"?
The tallest and largest building at the center of the castle is often referred to as the "Tenshukaku."
In fact, this term is mostly written as "Tenshu" in historical records of castles. However, did you know that in Japanese history, only Azuchi Castle, built by Oda Nobunaga, used the kanji "Tenshu"?
There are various theories, but it is said that Nobunaga, who feared neither gods nor Buddhas, used it to demonstrate that he was the "master of the heavens." Can you not see the intense ego and pride of the Warring States warlord reflected in just one character's difference?
[Mystery 2] The changed "shape of the Tenshu" after the Battle of Sekigahara
There are broadly two trends in the silhouette (shape) of castles. When viewed in conjunction with the historical background, it becomes clear how the daimyo of the time thought.
Two Trends of Tenshu
・Bourou-type Tenshu:
This is an old-style castle. It has a large foundation house with one to two floors, topped with a "watchtower" for overlooking the distance. Even if the lower floors have an irregular shape, it can forcibly support a turret on top, showcasing a wild design focused on practical combat.
・Soutou-type Tenshu:
This is a new style that appeared after the Battle of Sekigahara. From the first floor to the top floor, square boxes are stacked in a regular manner, gradually becoming smaller, creating a smart and beautiful shape. It shows the shift from a "fortress for battle" to a "symbol of power (appearance)" in an era of peace. (Currently, Tsurugajo also has this beautiful silhouette of the soutou type.)
The beautiful roof hides a zero-dead-space area for snipers
The triangular decorations found all over the castle's roof are called "Hafu." Various types, such as Chidori Hafu and Kara Hafu, combine to create stunning beauty, but if you were a soldier attacking this castle, there would be nothing more terrifying.
This is because the back of these Hafu and the protruding "bay windows" are packed with functions to eliminate blind spots and shoot enemies directly below or to the side.
Terrifying gimmicks for interception
・Samazama:
Small round, triangular, or square holes opened in the wall. From here, one could observe the outside and safely snipe with arrows or guns.
・Stone Dropping:
This is a terrifying trap where a part of the floor of the bay window opens up, allowing stones to be dropped straight down or boiling water to be poured.
From the outside, it looks like a 'beautiful decoration', but from the inside, it is a 'perfect fortress'. This gap is what makes Japanese castle architecture the most academically interesting.
Fieldwork to decipher the 'hidden face' of history
How was it?
Craftsmanship and the contradiction of real combat?
In addition, the castle is filled with the craftsmanship and pride of artisans down to the details, such as the flat and thick decoration called 'Unokedoshi' hanging in the center of the karahafu and the 'Kizuregoushi' with boards attached behind the lattice. (By the way, Kizuregoushi is not often used in castles focused on real combat because it is weak to fire. Finding such weaknesses is interesting, isn't it?)
At 'Tabinoito', we offer tours in an Academic style that guide you through the duality of 'beauty' and 'horror' of such castle architecture with the vivid explanations of our guides.
‘So they were aiming with guns from there!’ ‘Stones drop from this bay window!’
Why not look up at Tsuruga Castle from the perspectives of the attackers and defenders? We look forward to the day when we can solve the mysteries of history together with you.
[Join us for adult fieldwork that unravels the hidden side of history]
A journey that comfortably explores the real breath of history, different from period dramas, in a dedicated vehicle.
Our exclusive guide will share stories of Aizu that are not found in textbooks.
First, feel free to consult us via LINE.
