The Battle of the Kaede River
The Battle of the Kaede River was a battle fought in the year 572 of the Golden Calender between three factions: the Nakatomi Clan, and the divided Furuyama Clan (one side led by Furuyama no Nakayori and the other led by his exiled nephew, Ryujiro.
The fighting began on the east bank of the Kaede River in northern Washū Province when Nakayori marched on the city Sakuchi in the name of his nephew, Takekatsu. They were ambushed by Ryujiro's forces while en route.
The Nakatomi, Katsura and Kawasaka forces, led by Tomoe, soon joined the fighting and eventually emerged victorious when Nakayori retreated and Ryujiro surrendered.
The Conflict
Outcome
The unified army of the eastern provinces, pushed north and were able to capture Ittoyama, the main seat of the Furuyama clan. Nakayori and his supporters were forced to flee west into Kaga Province where they were given shelter by the Terasaki clan. The two clans forged an alliance, understanding they would be stronger together against the might of the eastern clans, and began petitioning the other independent clans.
Meanwhile, Totaro vouched for Ryujiro and promises him the full backing of the eastern clans in his claim on Izumo Province. Tomoe, as well as the other leaders, agreed and allowed Ryujiro to return home for the first time in over a decade, recognising him as the rightful leader of Izumo.
Historical Significance
Legacy
The battle resulted in the addition of Ryujiro, his army, and his supporters swearing fealty to Totaro, acknowledging him as the rightful Emperor. This brought the total number of provinces under his control to four (Washū, Hyūga, Kibi, and Izumo). This large alliance of the the eastern provinces pressurised the Misaki Clan in Harima Province to also swear allegiance to Totaro. With the backing of five clans, he would then go to reclaim his home province of Settsu. Thus, half of the Jū-kinai was restored. However, Izumo would be divided in half only two years later when Nakayori was able to retake Ittoyama.
Conflict Type
Battle
Battlefield Type
Land
Start Date
572
Ending Date
572
Conflict Result
Eastern Clans victorious
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