Inuyama Castle
Japan's oldest existing castle (1537) and the only one historically owned by a private individual until 2004. It perches dramatically on a cliff above the Kiso River, offering views unchanged for centuries. The unpainted natural wood interior and veranda on the top floor feel genuinely ancient.
1.5–2 hours
¥1,000 (adults), ¥200 (elementary/junior high)
9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30); closed Dec 29–31
March–April, October–November
About 20 min walk from Inuyama Station (Meitetsu Line)
Location
Why Visit
- 1
Japan's oldest castle keep — a National Treasure designated in 1935
- 2
Top-floor veranda overlooks the Kiso River with views that haven't changed in 500 years
- 3
Cormorant fishing (ukai) on the river below takes place on summer evenings
Local Tips
One of Japan's twelve original castle keeps — the observation deck at the top is reached by very steep stairs but the views over the Kiso River gorge are outstanding. The Inuyama castle town (Honmachi street) has excellent craft shops and cafes. Combine with Meiji Mura open-air architecture museum (15 min by bus) for a full day.
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