Inuyama Castle is one of Japan’s oldest surviving castles and a designated National Treasure. Built in 1537, it is renowned for having one of the few remaining original wooden tenshu (castle keeps) from the feudal era. Perched atop a small hill overlooking the Kiso River, the castle offers breathtaking views of both Aichi and Gifu Prefectures.
Unlike many reconstructed castles made of concrete, Inuyama Castle retains its authentic Edo-period architecture, allowing visitors to experience centuries-old wooden floors, steep stairways, and panoramic observation decks that samurai once used. Its compact size, historical value, and beautiful surroundings make it one of Japan’s most charming and accessible cultural sites.
Contents
Highlights
• One of the Last Original Castles in Japan
Inuyama Castle is one of only five National Treasure castles still standing in their original wooden form:
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Himeji Castle
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Matsumoto Castle
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Inuyama Castle
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Hikone Castle
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Matsue Castle
Its authenticity makes it one of the most valuable feudal-era structures in the country.
• Built in 1537 – A Rare Glimpse into Samurai Architecture
The castle features:
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Hand-carved wooden beams
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Narrow, steep stairways
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Traditional lookout windows
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A compact four-story keep designed for defense
Visitors can walk through genuine interiors that have been preserved for nearly 500 years.
• Stunning Panoramic Views from the Top Floor
From the open-air balcony on the top level, you can enjoy:
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The wide Kiso River flowing beneath the castle
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The mountains of Gifu Prefecture
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The rooftops of Inuyama’s historic castle town
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Cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn
The 360-degree view is one of the most impressive of any Japanese castle.
• Beautiful Castle Town Below
At the foot of the castle lies Inuyama Jokamachi, a charming historic street filled with:
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Traditional wooden merchant houses
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Street food stalls
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Cafés and souvenir shops
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Kimono rental shops
It is a popular area for strolling, eating, and experiencing a classic Japanese castle town atmosphere.
• Connection to Japan’s Powerful Feudal Clans
The castle was historically linked to:
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Oda Nobunaga’s family
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The Naruse Family, who managed and preserved the castle for generations
Its history is deeply tied to the rise of the Oda clan during Japan’s Sengoku war era.
Recommended Experiences
• Climb the Original Wooden Interior
Feel the preserved atmosphere of a true samurai fortress.
• Walk Through the Castle Town (Jokamachi)
Try local specialties such as:
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Gohei-mochi (sweet miso rice cakes)
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Matcha sweets
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Dango skewers
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Craft beer and regional dishes
• Visit at Sunset
Golden hour offers magical lighting on the Kiso River and castle tower.
• Spring Cherry Blossoms
The castle becomes one of the area’s most scenic hanami spots.
Practical Information
• Location
Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture
About 30 minutes from Nagoya via Meitetsu Railway.
• Opening Hours
Generally: 9:00–17:00
(Last entry about 30 minutes before closing; varies seasonally.)
• Admission
Approx. ¥550 for adults.
Discounts available for children and combo tickets with nearby museums.
• Accessibility
The castle’s interior requires climbing steep stairs and is not wheelchair-accessible due to its preserved historical structure.
• Best Time to Visit
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Spring (March–April): Cherry blossoms
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Autumn (Oct–Nov): Colorful foliage
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Morning: Fewer crowds and clearer views
Nearby Attractions
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Urakuen Garden (featuring the National Treasure tea house “Jo-an”)
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Little World Museum of Man
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Meiji Mura Museum (open-air museum of historical architecture)
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Kiso River Boat Tours
These can be combined into a full-day trip.
Why You Should Visit
Inuyama Castle is one of the few places in Japan where you can step inside a true, original samurai stronghold. Its authenticity, dramatic hilltop views, and charming castle town make it an essential destination for anyone interested in Japanese history, architecture, or scenic landscapes.
Related articles
Official Website
https://inuyamajo.jp/
Accommodation sites
Agoda
