Battle of Minatogawa
Minato River, Kobe, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan
What happened
The Ashikaga clan, led by Ashikaga Takauji, fought forces loyal to Emperor Go-Daigo, led by Kusunoki Masashige and Nitta Yoshisada. Ashikaga Takauji had turned against Emperor Go-Daigo and returned from Kyushu with an army by land and sea. Kusunoki had proposed other plans, but the emperor insisted on a battle in the open. The Ashikaga surrounded the imperial army, Kusunoki died, and Nitta pulled back toward Kyoto.
Why it matters
Why it matters: The Ashikaga marched into Kyoto unopposed and put a new emperor, Kōmyō, on the throne. This began a long split between rival Northern and Southern imperial courts.
What came next
Go-Daigo fled Kyoto and set up his court at Yoshino. Kusunoki later became a famous symbol of loyalty in Japan.
Did you know?
Legend says Go-Daigo dreamed of sheltering under a camphor tree, kusunoki in Japanese, which led him to choose Kusunoki as his commander.
Timeline
- 1333Kusunoki helps bring about the Kenmu Restoration.
- 5 July 1336The Ashikaga win at Minatogawa.
- 1872Minatogawa Shrine is built roughly on the battle site.
- 1880The Meiji government gives Kusunoki the highest court rank after his death.