The Battle of Mikatagahara took place on January 25, 1573, during the late stages of Japan's Sengoku period. It was fought between the forces of Tokugawa Ieyasu and the army of Takeda Shingen. The battle occurred near the Mikatagahara plateau in present-day Shizuoka Prefecture. Despite being outnumbered, Ieyasu's troops faced a fierce attack from the Takeda forces. The battle is notable for its strategic significance, as it showcased the military tactics of both leaders. Although Ieyasu's forces were ultimately defeated, the battle helped him learn valuable lessons that would contribute to his future successes. This encounter is often remembered as a key moment in the rise of the Tokugawa shogunate.