Inuyama Castle | Review by wendy

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Inuyama Castle

One of five castles deemed a Japanese national treasure, with an old-world castle keep that’s perched upon a cliff.

5 Sep 2026 See More

Inuyama Castle is one of Japan's five national treasure castles and the oldest of the 12 surviving original castle keeps. Built on high ground beside the Kiso River, its rustic wooden keep still retains a strong sense of history.

You have to remove your shoes before entering the keep, and plastic bags are thoughtfully provided at the entrance so visitors can carry them. However, the wooden stairs inside are extremely steep and narrow, making the climb quite challenging. People with limited mobility or knee problems may want to think twice. As you climb from floor to floor and see the armory, armor storage room, and original wooden structure, you can almost imagine the battles of the Sengoku period.

The highlight is reaching the top floor. Standing on the balcony around the keep with the wind blowing and looking down over Inuyama's castle town and the Kiso River, the expansive view really makes you forget all your worries for a moment.

After visiting Inuyama Castle, I also recommend taking a leisurely walk through the castle town, wearing a kimono, trying traditional snacks, and relaxing at a cafe for an easygoing afternoon.

Other Reviews by wendy

Okazaki Castle

A castle where Tokugawa Ieyasu (1542-1616), who founded the Edo shogunate, was born. In 2006, it was selected as one of the “Top 100 Castles in Japan.” With many legends tied to dragons, it is also known as “Tatsugajo (Dragon Castle).” One legend says that when Takechiyo (later Ieyasu) was born, dark clouds swirled above the castle and a golden dragon appeared.
- Aichi
- Tourist Attractions
5 Sep 2026 See More

Okazaki Castle, the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who unified Japan, is a historical attraction well worth visiting when in Okazaki. From Nagoya, it takes just over 30 minutes by limited express train to reach Higashi Okazaki Station, followed by a little over a 10-minute walk to the castle, making it quite convenient to get to.

There are many shrines, temples, and historic sites around Okazaki Castle, and the entire area is very well maintained. Besides going up to the castle keep and taking in views of Okazaki from the top, I also visited the Ieyasu Museum, which has a very comprehensive collection of historical information. Anyone interested in Japan's Sengoku period will probably really enjoy it.

There really aren't many visitors here, and it's especially peaceful on weekdays. Taking a leisurely walk through Okazaki Park is very pleasant.
Yakimono Sanpo-michi

Tokoname City in Aichi Prefecture has long been known as an area where the ceramics industry has flourished. Yakimono Sanpo-michi is a popular walking area where visitors can experience the history and culture of Tokoname ware, which has long been counted among Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. Centered around a ceramics district that thrived most in the early Showa period, the area offers scenery distinctive to a pottery town, including brick chimneys, a climbing kiln, workshops with black walls, and retaining walls made with clay pipes and shochu bottles.
- Aichi
- Tourist Attractions
5 Sep 2026 See More

If you're visiting Tokoname City in Aichi Prefecture, I highly recommend taking a walk along Yakimono Sanpo-michi, where you can experience the history and culture of the famous Japanese ceramics known as Tokoname ware firsthand.

The whole walking area retains a strong retro atmosphere. As you stroll through the alleys, you'll see many old houses, ceramic works, and unique little shops. The overall atmosphere is very relaxing. There aren't too many visitors, so it's comfortable for taking photos, and you don't need to set aside much time. Even a casual walk around the area feels rewarding.

If I had to describe it, it's a bit like Taiwan's Treasure Hill and Yingge combined. You can admire old street architecture and ceramic art as you walk, making it perfect for people who enjoy photography or are interested in ceramics.

There are quite a few small ceramics shops along the way, all selling distinctive pieces. If you like Tokoname ware, you can take your time choosing some favorite items to bring home.

Unfortunately, I visited on a Monday, so many of the shops were closed, and even the nearby Shinmeisha Shrine wasn't open.

Also, the signs along the walking route aren't very clear, so first-time visitors may have a little trouble finding their way.
Inuyama Castle Town

This castle town stretches south from Inuyama Castle, a famous castle built in 1537 and designated a National Treasure. Miraculously spared from the ravages of war for more than 480 years, both the castle and castle town still retain the original town layout based on the defensive castle structure known as sogamae. With its old-world atmosphere and manageable size, it is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Aichi
- Tourist Attractions
5 Sep 2026 See More

If you're visiting Inuyama Castle, I definitely recommend stopping by Inuyama Castle Town too! It preserves the look and feel of the old castle town, with historic buildings lining both sides of the street. Walking through it feels like stepping back into old Japan.

The entire street is packed with food options, including many stands where you can grab something to eat while walking, which is very convenient if you're short on time. Of course, there are also plenty of restaurants where you can sit down and enjoy your meal at a leisurely pace. If you have enough time, it's a great place to eat and browse as you go. As you head toward Inuyama Castle, you'll also find many unique little shops where you can take your time hunting for interesting finds.

At the end of the food street, there's also the Dondenkan Museum, where you can learn about Inuyama's traditional festival floats. It's well worth a visit for anyone interested in Japanese history and traditional culture. If you want to avoid the crowds, I really recommend coming early in the morning! There are far fewer visitors then, making it more comfortable to take photos. You can leisurely explore the old streets before slowly making your way toward Inuyama Castle.