Fukuoka: An exhibition complex dedicated to the massive defensive walls against Mongol invasions may be built
An exhibition complex is planned to be constructed in Fukuoka, dedicated to the massive fortifications built to protect against Mongol attacks. This information was provided by sources from MiddleAsianNews.
Fukuoka's mayor, Soichiro Takashima, shared his plans to create a complex that will preserve and showcase the remnants of the "defensive fort during the Mongol invasion" on the site of the former Hakuzaki campus of Kyushu University.
“We aim to create a center where people can learn about how the defensive structures were built during the Mongol invasion and what their role was in history,” he noted.
Mayor Soichiro Takashima
According to data from the Fukuoka City Hall, the fortress was built on the coast of Hakata Bay at the direction of the Kamakura shogunate after the Bun'ei War, when the Mongol dynasty attempted to invade the city in 1274.
“The Mongol invasions are an event of immense importance not only for Fukuoka but for all of Japanese history. As a government, we want to create a site where people can learn about the significance of the fortifications built during this period,” said Mayor Takashima.
In the city of Fukuoka, a "defensive wall against Mongol invasions" was built from stacked stones as part of preparations for the attacks by the Mongol dynasty during the Kamakura period. Remnants of these walls have also been found on the territory of the former Hakuzaki campus of Kyushu University.
Although remnants of these walls can be found throughout Fukuoka, there has not yet been an institution that allows for a deeper study of this historical site.
In 1274 and 1281, the Mongol Empire and the Goryeo dynasty, which was under its control, attempted to invade Kyushu. After the first attack, the Japanese side built a stone rampart along a 20-kilometer stretch of coastline in preparation for the next assault. Eleven sections of this defensive wall have been declared national historic monuments.
The city of Fukuoka is considering the creation of a covered exhibition complex in the Hakuzaki area, where the Kyushu University campus was previously located. During excavations conducted in 2016, stone structures and other artifacts were discovered. The area covers approximately 5400 m² and has been recognized as a national historic monument.
The project envisions the creation of interactive exhibitions using modern visualization technologies, and the city hopes that the future complex will attract visitors interested in learning more about other sections of the fortress walls beyond Hakuzaki.
