The Battle of Yamazaki is one of the most famous battles in Japanese history. The epicenter of the battle is Yamazaki, which is closer to the south of Kyoto. The date of the battle is July 2, 1582. The battle took place two weeks later, when Akechi Mitsuhide attacked and killed Oda Nobunaga and thus took over Nobunaga's power, and power in the capital, Kyoto. At the same time, Nobunaga's generals were located in different parts of the empire. The ruler was surrounded only by a handful of samurai. The enemy knew this important fact and skillfully took advantage of the situation. However, further events unfolded according to a different scenario.
Mitsuhide did not expect that the generals would be so loyal to their former master and be able to quickly avenge him. He believed to the last that time and a long distance were on his side. An important role in this confrontation was occupied by Honno-ji-Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who, keeping the death of the leader a secret from enemies and friends, managed to advance his army 40 km towards Kyoto. Further, other commanders joined him.
At the same time, Mitsuhide did not know how to properly hold the castle. First, his troops were very tired. Secondly, the united army (Toyotomi's forces) was approaching at great speed. He was well aware that Hideyoshi's army was stronger and outnumbered. In such a situation, Mitsuhide began to ask his son-in-law and his father for help, but was refused. The reason for the refusal was that both samurai were outraged by the sudden attack on Nobunaga. They feared for their lives and the lives of their soldiers. In addition, many people from Mitsuhide's army deserted during this time. Thus, Mitsuhide was left on his own, without outside help.
He decided to meet the advancing army at Yamazaki. This location was chosen for several reasons. The most basic is the ability to retreat if necessary. Secondly, the place itself had a good location. On the one hand, the Yodo River, which protected the right flank, and on the other hand, Mount Tennozan, 270m high, it acted as a defense of the left flank.
According to Mitsuhide's calculation, castles and natural defenses were supposed to provide reliable cover for his troops and thereby give an advantage over a numerous enemy. He positioned his army behind a small river, which provided a good defensive position. However, the enemy also did not waste time. On the night of July 1, the enemy sent several ninja to Mitsuhide's camp. They set fire to buildings, and thereby dispelled panic, fear among the soldiers, depriving them of normal sleep.
The Battle of Yamazaki took place the very next morning. On the same day, the main battles began. Each army took up its battle positions. Already at the first stages, the enemy army took advantageous positions and surrounded Mitsuhide's people. At this time, many Mitsuhide warriors fled. Only 200 people remained at Mitsuhide's disposition, who were destroyed by Hideyoshi's forces during the battle. This ended the battle of Yamazaki. Mitsuhide first fled, and a little later was killed by a peasant warrior. Thus, the reign of Mitsuhide lasted only 13 days.
See also
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Siege of Odawara 1590
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Battle of Tenmokuzan
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