Inuyama Castle, located on the border between Aichi and Gifu Prefectures, is one of Japan’s oldest surviving Japanese castles, featuring a wooden main keep designated as a National Treasure. It was built during the Sengoku period and is easily accessible, taking about 30 minutes by train from Nagoya. From the top floor of the castle keep, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Kiso River and surrounding mountains, where Japanese history and nature blend in harmony.
Around the castle stretches a traditional Japanese castle town that preserves the charm of old Japan, offering pleasant walks and local street food experiences. This article introduces the highlights of Inuyama Castle and nearby attractions, making it easy for first-time visitors to explore the area with confidence.
Inuyama Castle Main Highlights
Kiso River View from Inuyama Castle Keep
The main keep of Inuyama Castle is a valuable wooden structure designated as a National Treasure of Japan. From the top floor, visitors can see the Kiso River flowing below and the distant mountains of Gifu on clear days. The steep wooden stairs evoke the atmosphere of the Sengoku era, allowing visitors to experience both history and nature at once. It is one of the most representative highlights of the castle.
Inside Inuyama Castle｜Sengoku-era Legacy
Inside the castle, original wooden pillars, beams, and staircases from the period remain intact, giving the structure a simple and functional design without decoration. Exhibits on each floor explain the castle’s history and construction techniques, offering insight into the defensive designs and daily life of feudal lords. Walking through the wooden interior lets visitors feel the authentic atmosphere of Japan’s Sengoku period.
Seasonal Views of Inuyama Castle Town
Cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn surround the castle, offering distinct seasonal landscapes. In spring, the view of cherry trees along the Kiso River from the top floor is especially beautiful, attracting many photographers. Each season reveals a different charm, deepening the enjoyment of visiting Inuyama Castle throughout the year.
Nearby Attractions near Inuyama Castle
The area around Inuyama Castle is rich in historical and cultural sites. At the foot of the castle lies Inuyama Castle Town, a historic Edo-period street layout that remains well preserved today. Traditional houses have been converted into cafés and souvenir shops, creating a lively area perfect for strolling while enjoying local specialties such as dengaku (grilled tofu with miso) and sweets.
Within walking distance are Haritsuna Shrine and Sanko Inari Shrine, both beloved by visitors for their bright red torii gates and ema (wooden plaques) dedicated to love and good fortune. A short distance away, travelers can take the Inuyama River Cruise to enjoy the natural scenery along the Kiso River, making this area a place where history and landscape can be experienced together.
Inuyama Castle Access & Transportation Guide
