Akashi Masakaze served as a retainer of Akamatsu Harumasa and as lord of the Akashi clan based at Edayoshi Castle in Harima Province.  In 1531, he prevailed against Uragami Muramune at the Battle of Mukogawara.  In 1538, Masakaze joined with his son, Sukeyuki, and Kodera Norimoto, lord of Gochaku Castle, to betray the Akamatsu by supporting the Amago clan during their invasion of Harima.  After losing this battle against Akamatsu Masamura, Masakaze fled to Iwaya Castle in Awaji Province, and reconciled thereafter. 

Masakaze’s daughter, Iwahime, was adopted by Kodera Masamoto.  She was married to the chamberlain of Himeji Castle, Kuroda Yoshitaka, and gave birth to Kuroda Kanbei.  The Akashi clan was known for enjoying cultural pursuits, including books and waka, or Japanese odes.  While a warrior, Masakaze was also known to share an interest in the arts, and initiated Konoe Taneie, a high-ranking court official, to waka.