Wakayama Castle is a historical site deeply connected to the Kishu Tokugawa family, one of the three main Tokugawa houses. It’s also a popular tourist destination, offering breathtaking views of the Wakayama Plain.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Wakayama Castle, including its highlights, how to get there, and nearby attractions.
By the end of this article, you’ll likely want to visit Wakayama Castle yourself!
- The history of its connection to the Tokugawa family
- Stunning views from the castle tower
- Seasonal gardens
- Family-friendly park facilities
- Convenient access information
- The best times to visit
What is Wakayama Castle? History and Attractions
Wakayama Castle is a site rich in history and known for its stunning scenery.
The History of a Castle Linked to the Tokugawa Family
Wakayama Castle served as the residence of the Kishu Tokugawa family, one of the three main Tokugawa clans. With a history spanning over 400 years, one can imagine how it must have looked when Tokugawa Ieyasu first established it.
The castle was originally managed by Hideyoshi Toyotomi’s younger brother, Hidenaga, but after the Battle of Sekigahara, Ieyasu’s 10th son, Yorinobu, took control, marking the start of the Kishu Tokugawa clan.
Throughout the Edo period, Wakayama Castle played a crucial role as the base of operations for the Kishu Tokugawa family.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1585 | Construction began under the orders of Hideyoshi Toyotomi and his brother Hidenaga. |
| 1600 | Following the Battle of Sekigahara, Yorinobu Tokugawa, the 10th son of Ieyasu, entered the castle, establishing the Kishu Tokugawa clan. |
| 1619 | Major renovations were carried out by Yorinobu after becoming the lord of Kishu. |
| 1945 | The castle was severely damaged in the Wakayama air raids during World War II. |
| 1958 | The main keep was reconstructed. |
| Today | Wakayama Castle stands as a beloved symbol of Wakayama City, attracting countless visitors. |
Knowing the rich history of Wakayama Castle will make your visit even more enjoyable.
Next, let’s take a look at the stunning views from the castle tower.
The Structure of Wakayama Castle
Here’s a detailed explanation of Wakayama Castle’s architectural features.
The Main Keep
The castle’s main keep is designed in a linked-structure style and has the following features:
- Main Tower: A three-story, four-level structure with a basement floor.
- Smaller Keep: Connected to the main tower via a roofed corridor.
- Linked Structure: The combined design of the main and smaller keeps creates a unique and striking appearance.
Stone Walls
The castle’s stone walls vary in style depending on when they were built, featuring designs like “nozura-zumi,” “uchikomi-hagi,” and “kirikomi-hagi,” all of which contributed to the castle’s strong defense.
Fusion of Mountain and Flatland Castles
Wakayama Castle blends the characteristics of both mountain castles and flatland castles. It was built using the natural terrain of Mount Torafusu, taking advantage of the mountain’s height and slopes in its design.
Current Restoration
Today, Wakayama Castle’s main keep, reconstructed in 1958 using reinforced concrete, stands alongside original features like the stone walls and moats that date back to the Edo period.
Wakayama Castle remains a cherished landmark, celebrated for its breathtaking views and historically significant design.
Highlights of Wakayama Castle
Wakayama Castle captivates visitors with its beauty and historical significance. From the castle tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Wakayama City. The grounds also feature beautiful gardens that reflect the changing seasons, making it a popular destination year-round. Spring, in particular, sees the castle bustling with visitors during cherry blossom season.
Let’s take a closer look at the highlights of Wakayama Castle.
Breathtaking Views from the Castle Tower
The castle tower offers a stunning panoramic view of Wakayama City.
From Wakayama Castle, you can see the Kinokawa River and, on clear days, even Awaji Island in the distance. The view at sunset, when the city is bathed in orange light, is especially breathtaking.
The sunset reflecting off the Kinokawa River is truly a picture-perfect moment.
Seasonal Gardens Full of Natural Beauty
Wakayama Castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens that showcase the natural beauty of each season. In spring, the grounds are adorned with cherry blossoms, making it one of the most popular spots for hanami (flower viewing) in the region.
In autumn, the Momijidani Garden is filled with vibrant red and orange hues as the maple leaves change color, creating a magical atmosphere that feels far removed from the bustling city.
During the summer months, the gardens are lush with greenery, offering shaded areas perfect for relaxation and escaping the heat.
The winter landscape is rare but stunning when snowfall blankets the castle grounds, transforming them into a serene winter wonderland.
These gardens are not only a haven for nature lovers but also an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the castle’s beauty across the seasons.
Exhibits Inside the Castle
Wakayama Castle houses a variety of fascinating exhibits that tell its long and storied history.
Inside the main keep, you’ll find artifacts such as samurai armor, swords, and historical documents that offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived during that time.
- Samurai Armor: Protective gear worn by warriors
- Swords: Traditional weapons used by samurai
- Historical Documents: Letters and records from the castle’s history
These exhibits provide a deeper understanding of the castle’s cultural and historical significance. Imagining the daily lives of the samurai and the castle’s original structure as you explore makes for a truly enriching experience.
Top Photography Spots at Wakayama Castle
Wakayama Castle offers several amazing photography spots that showcase its charm from different perspectives.
Whether you capture the view of the main tower from directly in front of it, the scenic view from the Ninomaru Garden, or the historic atmosphere of the Honmaru Palace, each spot offers a unique way to experience the castle.
| Photography Spot | Recommended Features |
|---|---|
| In front of the main keep | Get a close-up view of the castle’s impressive structure. |
| Ninomaru Garden | Combine the garden’s natural beauty with the majestic castle in the background. |
| Honmaru Palace | Capture the traditional architecture alongside the castle’s main tower for a historical vibe. |
Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture these stunning views and create lasting memories.
Wakayama Castle Zoo: Free Family-Friendly Fun
Located within the castle grounds, the Wakayama Castle Zoo is a hidden gem that’s free to enter and enjoyable for visitors of all ages.
Here, you can meet around 20 different species of animals, including red pandas and Humboldt penguins.
Not only can you observe the animals up close, but you can also enjoy a paid feeding experience with select animals.
Since the types of animals and events may vary by season, it’s a good idea to check the official website beforehand for the latest updates.
The zoo also features a play area with equipment and rest spots, making it a great place for families with small children to relax and enjoy the day.
Admission Fees and Access to Wakayama Castle
Admission Fees and Opening Hours
While the castle grounds are open to the public at all times, entry to the castle tower requires an admission fee.
| Admission Fee | Adults: ¥410 Children: ¥200 (Elementary and Junior High School students) Preschoolers: Free |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Last admission at 5:00 PM) |
Getting There by Public Transportation
Wakayama Castle is conveniently located in the center of Wakayama City and is easily accessible by public transportation or car.
If you’re using public transportation, you can reach the castle by train and bus.
- Nankai Main Line Wakayamashi Station: About a 15-minute walk or a 3-minute bus ride. Get off at the “Wakayama Castle-mae” bus stop.
- JR Wakayama Station: About a 5-minute bus ride. Get off at the “Wakayama Castle-mae” bus stop.
The Nankai Main Line provides convenient access from Osaka, making it an excellent day trip destination.
Driving to Wakayama Castle
For those driving, the Hanshin Expressway offers an easy route to Wakayama Castle.
- From Wakayama Interchange: About 15 minutes (5.5 km).
Several parking lots are available in and around the Wakayama Castle grounds. However, during busy seasons like autumn foliage viewing, parking spaces can fill up quickly. Using public transportation is recommended during these times.
Parking fees and capacity vary by location, so checking in advance can make your visit smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How much does it cost to enter Wakayama Castle?
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The admission fee for Wakayama Castle is ¥410 for adults and ¥200 for children.
- How long does it take to explore Wakayama Castle?
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It takes about two hours to fully explore Wakayama Castle.
- Can I bring my pet to Wakayama Castle?
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Pets are not allowed inside the castle tower. However, pets are welcome in the castle park. (Paid areas are off-limits to pets.)
- What should I wear when visiting Wakayama Castle?
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Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking quite a bit. Dress appropriately for the weather.
- Are there any restaurants near Wakayama Castle?
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Yes, there are many dining options nearby, including restaurants serving Wakayama ramen, a local specialty.
- What other attractions are near Wakayama Castle?
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Nearby attractions include the Wakayama Prefectural Museum and the Wakayama Museum of Modern Art, among others.
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