Wakayama Castle


2018.04.10

NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR

Now a symbol of its city, Wakayama Castle used to be an important hub for the ruling clan during the Edo period over 400 years ago. Suffering demolition and attacks throughout its long history, the castle was renovated a number of times, with the most recent revival in 1958 after WWII. Today, the grand structure stands as a monument of cultural and historical preservation for those who call Wakayama home.

  • Wakayama Castle

    Wakayama Castle

    While the building itself has been renovated, the outer walls and the inner moat have remained virtually untouched from their inception 400 years ago. Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Japan’s ruler in the latter half of the 16th century, first built the castle back in 1585. Then from the beginning of the 17th century to the end of the 19th century, the castle served as a base of operations for the Tokugawa clan. Their rule during the Edo period, although peaceful, saw a great number of generals emerge in the ranks.

    While taking in the artifacts that the Tokugawa Clan produced during their rule, you might find yourself curious about the outside of the castle. And it’s no wonder, seeing as how close to 600 cherry blossom trees populate the surroundings. You’d be remiss to not get outside and take in the peaceful gardens and park.

    Wakayama Castle

    Wakayama Castle

    In fact, many say that a visit to the castle isn’t fully experienced unless one takes a stroll around it. Although there are locals that take their morning run or afternoon walk in the surrounding gardens, you’ll find the area quiet and serene. The city is quiet small and from the top of the castle you can use the binoculars to take in the scenery.

    Wakayama Castle

    Wakayama Castle

    Despite it’s small size, Wakayama Castle deserves its 1935 National Treasure status. While the modernity of the 19th century shook more than just the walls of this castle in Japan, there is still a strong sense of perseverance in the air. The locals of Wakayama don’t have the number of attractions nearby Kyoto and Osaka have, but they respect and protect the ones they do have. And you can taste that clearly in the meticuluous upkeep of the structure and integrity of the design, both inside and out. We especially took a liking to the colors.

    Wakayama Castle

    Wakayama Castle

    If you are in Wakayama in the spring, we recommend dropping by here to get a taste of the cherry blossom viewing. With its great number of cherry blossom trees, the stunning nature, the quiet and the Edo style castle in the background will bring you to another place. Even if you visit during another season, the peaceful waters and atmosphere will make your time here meditative.

    Wakayama Castle

    Wakayama Castle

    Although some that visit go as far as saying the castle isn’t as spectacular as the castle grounds, we recommend paying the small entrance fee to take a look inside. While the surrounding areas are quite beautiful, we don’t think they would hold their worth without the castle. Take your time and see for yourself how history persists in Wakayama.

    Wakayama Castle
    place
    Wakayama prefecture Wakayama city 1-3
    phone
    0734228979
    opening-hour
    9:00-17:30(Last entry17:00)
    View Allarrow

    Smile Hotel Wakayama

    18 Minamimigiwa-cho Wakayama

    Agoda
    • Smile Hotel Wakayama
    • Smile Hotel Wakayama
    • Smile Hotel Wakayama
    • Smile Hotel Wakayama
    • Smile Hotel Wakayama

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