Takanobu was the grandson of Ryūzōji Iekane (1454-1546). His father was Ryûzôji Chikaie and his mother was Keigin-ni.[3]
Ryūzōji Takanobu is known for expanding his clan's holdings. He took land from the Shōni clan. In 1578, Takanobu conquered almost all of Hizen Province.[2] The following year, the Ryūzōji clan advanced to Chikuzen and Buzen.[2] In 1580, Takanobu retired in Suko castle but he retained the real power until his death.[4]
In 1584, Ryūzōji retainer Arima Harunobu split from the clan.[2] Seizing upon this opportunity, several of the local small clans in the Shimabara Peninsula also rose up in arms.
Takanobu personally led an army of around 30,000 against the Shimazu-Arima, but was killed in the Battle of Okitanawate by Shimazu Iehisa's army.[2][3]
Ryūzōji Masaie (1556–1607) was the son of Takanobu.[5] Following Takanobu's death, Ryūzōji domain was taken over by Takanobu's chief retainer Nabeshima Naoshige.[6]
