Site of Tsukimi Yagura Turret
The fortress’s innermost complex was encircled by 11 turrets. They were used for storing weapons, ammunition, and other equipment, but they functioned as watchtowers as well. The turret that stood here overlooked this section of the castle’s 30-meter-high retaining wall and afforded a clear view of anyone approaching via the Tamatsukurimon or Aoyamon gates.
This turret, along with several other parts of the castle, burned down in January 1868 at the outbreak of the Boshin War (1868–1869). It is unknown exactly who or what caused the fires that damaged the castle. As a rebel army loyal to Emperor Meiji (1852–1912) approached Osaka, the last shogun abandoned his stronghold here to flee to Edo (now Tokyo), taking his trusted retainers and lieutenants with him. Chaos and looting followed, and multiple fires erupted in and around the undefended fortress.