The History of Yura Fortress and Miyama No. 1 Battery
A Modern Fortress Built to Protect Osaka Bay
During the Meiji era, Japan rapidly modernized its military and national infrastructure. Protecting important coastal areas became a major priority, particularly as Japan developed into a modern nation.
The Kitan Strait was considered strategically important because it connects the Seto Inland Sea with the Pacific Ocean. If an enemy fleet could pass through the strait, it could potentially approach major cities such as Osaka and Kobe.
To defend this important maritime route, the Meiji government constructed a network of coastal artillery batteries around Yura on Awaji Island, the Tomogashima Islands, and the Kada and Miyama areas of Wakayama.
These interconnected military facilities became known as Yura Fortress. Construction began around 1889, and numerous batteries, fortified positions, observation facilities, and other military installations were eventually established throughout the area surrounding the Kitan Strait.
Construction of Miyama No. 1 Battery
Miyama No. 1 Battery was built as an important defensive position on the mainland side, together with other batteries such as the Takurazaki Battery in southern Kada.
The battery was completed in 1897 and officially incorporated into Yura Fortress in 1899. At the time, it was equipped with six 28-centimeter howitzers, which were intended to attack warships passing through the Kitan Strait.
Observation posts were also established on both sides of the battery. Their role was to monitor ships at sea, determine their position and distance, and provide information necessary for calculating the direction and angle of artillery fire.
Highlights of the Miyama Battery Ruins
Brick Military Structures Hidden in the Forest
One of the greatest attractions of the Miyama No. 1 Battery Ruins is the atmosphere created by the remains of Meiji-era military architecture surrounded by nature.
Following the path from the entrance, visitors can see brick structures and stonework that preserve traces of the original fortress. Walls covered with vegetation and weathered red bricks create an atmosphere that is both mysterious and evocative.
Some sections of the battery can be reached by descending stairs, allowing visitors to explore remnants of the underground facilities once used by soldiers. The dark, enclosed spaces can give the impression of stepping back in time and provide an enjoyable sense of exploration.
Remarkably Preserved Observation Posts
Among the most interesting features of the site are the observation post ruins that remain on both sides of the battery.
Many former military facilities in Japan were partially dismantled after the end of World War II, and valuable metal components and other structures were removed. The observation facilities at Miyama, however, have survived in relatively good condition, making them valuable remnants for understanding how the fortress once operated.
From these locations, visitors can look across the Kitan Strait and imagine the soldiers who once stood here, carefully watching the sea for approaching ships.
The Story of Tomogashima Lighthouse
A short distance from the battery ruins stands Tomogashima Lighthouse, which is connected to an interesting story about the construction of the coastal defenses.
According to local accounts, the lighthouse was moved to its present location because its original position was considered potentially obstructive to the artillery batteries being constructed in the area.
The coexistence of a lighthouse designed to support safe maritime navigation and military batteries designed to defend the coast illustrates the strategic importance of this part of Wakayama. These facilities served very different purposes, yet both were closely connected to the sea.
Hiking Around the Miyama Battery Ruins
A Trail Combining History and Nature
The area around the Miyama Battery Ruins has been developed as a hiking and walking route. A free parking area is available near the entrance, making the site accessible by car.
From the entrance, visitors can follow a brick-lined path toward the battery ruins and nearby viewpoints. The route takes approximately 60 minutes, making it suitable for travelers who want to enjoy a relatively short historical walk.
Along the trail, military remains appear among the trees and vegetation. This unusual combination of historical ruins and peaceful woodland creates a distinctive landscape that is very different from conventional sightseeing attractions.
A Scenic View of the Kitan Strait
Continuing along the forest road leads to a viewpoint overlooking the Kitan Strait and the Tomogashima Islands.
On clear days, it may be possible to see as far as the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and toward Shikoku. The viewpoint is also known as a beautiful place to watch the sunset, when the islands and sea are illuminated by the evening light.
It is particularly fascinating that a location once used to monitor potential enemy ships has now become a peaceful viewpoint where visitors can appreciate the beauty of the sea.
An Alternative to Visiting Tomogashima
Tomogashima is a popular sightseeing destination in Wakayama, famous for its collection of Meiji-era military ruins. However, boat services to the islands can sometimes be suspended because of bad weather or sea conditions.
In such circumstances, Miyama No. 1 Battery Ruins offer an excellent alternative. The battery was constructed during the same period as the fortifications on Tomogashima, and the architecture and atmosphere share many similarities.
Because the site can be reached by car without taking a ferry, visitors can experience the history of Japan’s modern coastal defenses without traveling to the islands. The combination of brick military structures, forest-covered ruins, and panoramic sea views provides a different but equally fascinating experience.
The Role of Miyama in Yura Fortress
An Important Defense Position on the Kitan Strait
Yura Fortress consisted of several major defensive areas, including Yura, Tomogashima, and Kada-Miyama. Together, these installations formed a network designed to control and defend the Kitan Strait.
The Miyama area contained several military facilities, including Miyama No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3 Batteries, searchlight installations, fortified positions, and ammunition storage facilities.
A heavy artillery regiment was also stationed in the Miyama area and was responsible for operating the coastal batteries on the Wakayama side. These facilities formed an important part of the defensive system protecting the strait.
However, warfare changed dramatically during World War II as aircraft became increasingly important in military operations. Coastal artillery batteries had relatively few opportunities to play an active role in combat. After the war, many of the military facilities were dismantled, while some remains, including Miyama No. 1 Battery, survived.
Visitor Information
Location
Miyama, Kada, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
Admission and Visiting Hours
Open access
Free of charge
As the site is located along a natural walking trail, visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven ground.
Access
A free parking area is available near the entrance, making the site convenient for visitors traveling by car. The ruins can then be explored on foot as part of the surrounding hiking route.
A Fascinating Journey into Wakayama’s Military History
Miyama No. 1 Battery Ruins are a valuable example of Japan’s modern military heritage and provide an opportunity to learn about the coastal defenses constructed during the Meiji era.
The remaining brick ammunition buildings, gun emplacements, observation posts, and scenic viewpoints over the Kitan Strait allow visitors to experience history while surrounded by the natural beauty of Wakayama.
The site is particularly appealing to travelers interested in military history, historic architecture, hiking, and unusual sightseeing destinations. It is also an excellent alternative for those who would like to experience the atmosphere of Tomogashima’s famous fortifications without taking a boat.
As you walk quietly through the forest and discover the weathered remains of the old fortress, take a moment to imagine the soldiers who once watched the sea from these same hills. Miyama No. 1 Battery Ruins offer a unique opportunity to encounter a largely forgotten chapter of modern Japanese history while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Wakayama.