Recent Underwater Investigations at Takashima:Searching for the Lost Fleet of the Mongol Empire

Abstract

Two vessels originating in China, which are related to the 13th century CE Mongol invasion of Japan, were recently discovered at Takashima underwater site in Nagasaki Prefecture. These finds have shed new light on naval tactics and how the event took place. The finds are thought to be one of the most famous underwater archaeological discoveries in the country. Realizing the significance and potential of the underwater cultural heritage, the national government has initiated organized efforts in the field of maritime and underwater archaeology of Japan.