Welcome to the Japanese Castle Index:

This extremely detailed castle index lists all the Japanese castles I’ve personally visited thus far. Here you find all the necessary tourist information you’ll need. The rating () is based on my personal preference and was influenced by various factors such as the weather or construction works that might have affected my overall impression of each castle.

In addition to this list you can also browse all the castle related blog entries here.

The castles are listed in alphabetical order. Some castles have more than one official name. I tried to use the most common one for this index.

Aizuwakamatsu Castle in Fukushima, 会津若松城

Aizu (Fukushima)

reconstructed / hilltop

Founded 1384 by Ashina Naomori. Kanji: 会津若松城 / Other name(s): Tsuruga Castle.

access: Wakamatsu Sta.

From the station: 30 min. walk or 10 min. by bus. Travel tip: not too far from Sendai!

tourist info: 400¥ fee

500¥ for the caslte AND the tea house; 700¥ for the castle, the tea house and the garden. Open: 8:30am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm). No closing days.

visited: 01/2009

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Akashi Castle near Kobe in Hyogo, 明石城

Akashi (Hyogo)

other buildings / hilltop

Founded 1619 by Ogasawara Tadazane. Kanji: 明石城. Other name(s): Kishun Castle.

access: Akashi Sta.

from the station: 5 min. walk; travel tip: close to Kobe!

tourist info: no fee

Open all year round as it's a park. As there's nothing to enter, there's also no entrance fee.

visited: 01/2010

Can't be entered.

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Ako Castle in Hyogo, 赤穂城

Ako (Hyogo)

other buildings / flatland

Built 1648 by Asano Naganao. Kanji: 赤穂城. Other name(s): Kariya Castle.

access: Banshu-Ako Sta.

from the station: 10min. walk; travel tip: It's very close to Himeji! Also not too far from Kobe or Okayama.

tourist info: no fee

When there's nothing to enter, then there's also no entrance fee or opening hours!

visited: 10/2011

There is nothing to enter.

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Amagasaki Castle

Amagasaki (Hyogo)

ruins / flatland

Founded by Toda Ujikane in 1617. Kanji: 尼崎城.

access: Amagasaki Sta.

Amagasaki Sta. + 8 min. walk.

tourist info: free

Nothing to enter, so free of charge.

visited: 09/2013

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Azuchi Castle

Ise (Mie)

replica / hilltop

The original was built in 1579 by Oda Nobunaga. Ruins can be found in Azuchi, Shiga Prefecture!

access: Toba Sta.

Toba Sta. + 20 min. bus. Travel tip: not too far from Ise Shrine and Meoto Iwa, not too far from Nagoya.

tourist info: 3900¥ fee

It's a replica castle and can only be accessed by entering Momoyama Bunka Mura. It got much more expensive since I visited! Open: 9am-5pm (March 17th - November 15th); 9am-4pm. No closing days.

visited: 08/2010

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Azuchi Castle Ruins

Azuchi (Shiga)

ruins / hilltop

Built in 1576 by Oda Nobunaga. Kanji: 安土城.

access: Azuchi Sta.

Azuchi Sta. + 15 mins bicycle ride or 30 mins walk + hiking.

tourist info: 500¥ fee

Open: 9:00 - 16:00

visited: 06/2013

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Bitchu Matsuyama Castle in Okayama, 備中松山城

Bitchu Takahashi (Okayama)

original / mountaintop

Founded 1240 by Akiba Shigenobu. Kanji: 備中松山城. Other name(s): Takahashi Castle.

access: B.-Takahashi Sta.

From Bitchu-Takahashi Sta. 15min. taxi + 20min. hiking. There are shared sightseeing taxis. You can make a reservation at the tourist information there. There's also a shuttle bus (check out the website below for the time schedule). Travel tip: It's not too far from Okayama City.

tourist info: 300¥ fee

Open: 9am-5:30 (April-September); 9am-5pm (Oct-March). Closed from Dec 28th - Jan 4th

visited: 04/2011

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Chiba Castle aka Inohana Castle, 千葉城

Chiba (Chiba)

reconstructed / hilltop

Founded 1126 by Chiba Tsuneshige. Kanji: 千葉城 // Other name(s): Inohana Castle.

access: Honchiba Sta.

15 mins walk from the station, not too far from Tokyo.

tourist info: 60¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm. Closed: Mondays (or Tuesdays if Monday is a national holiday), national holidays and around the end of the year / new year.

visited: 04/2012

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Chihana Castle

Kume (Okinawa)

ruins / flatland

Founded in the 14th or 15th century by unknown. Kanji: 伊敷索城跡

access: Kume

Take a ferry or a plane from Naha Airport to Kume Island. From there your best choice is a rental car.

tourist info: free

Always open. There's as good as nothing left anymore of the former castle.

visited: 01/2013

There are only ruins and not even much of them, so nothing to enter.

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Echizen Katsuyama Castle

Katsuyama (Fukui)

reconstructed / flatland

Founded 1579 by Shibata Katsuyasu. Kanji: 越前勝山城.

access: Katsuyama Sta.

From Katsuyama Sta. take a bus.

tourist info: 500¥ fee

Open: 9:30-16:30. Closed: Wednesdays. There's a huge museum inside.

visited: 08/2012

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Echizen Ono Castle

Ono (Fukui)

reconstructed / mt.top

Founded 1576 by Kanamori Nagachika. Kanji: 越前大野城. Other name(s): Kameyama Castle.

access: Echizen Ono Sta.

15 mins walk from there.

tourist info: 200¥ fee

Open: 9:00-17:00 (Apr-Sep); 9:00-16:00 (Oct-Nov). Closed: Dec-Mar.

visited: 08/2012

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Edo Castle

Tokyo

other buildings / flatland

Founded 1457 by the Uesugi Family. Kanji: 江戸城.

access: Tokyo Sta.

From Tokyo Sta. 10 mins walk.

tourist info: free

Open: 9:00-16:00 (Nov-Feb); 9:00-17:00 (Apr-Aug); 9:00-16:30 (Sep, Oct, Mar). Closed: Mon+Fri and from Dec 28th - Jan 3rd

visited: 04/2013

It was closed when I visited.

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Fukuchiyama Castle in Kyoto, 福知山城

Fukuchiyama (Kyoto)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1579 by Akechi Mitsuhide. Kanji: 福知山城

access: Fukuchiyama

15 mins walk from Fukuchiyama Station. Not too far away from Amanohashidate.

tourist info: 310¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until: 4:30pm). Closed on Tuesdays (if that's a national holiday, then closed on the next day), also closed from Dec 28th - 31st, Jan 4st - 6th.

visited: 10/2011

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Fukui Castle

Fukui (Fukui)

flatland / ruins

Built in 1601 by Yuki Hideyasu. Kanji: 福井城. // Other name(s): Hisamatsu Castle

access: Fukui Sta.

5 mins walk from the station.

tourist info: free

visited: 08/2012

There's nothing to enter.

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Fukuoka Castle

Fukuoka (Fukuoka)

other buildings / hilltop

Built in 1601 by Kuroda Nagamasa. Kanji: 福岡城 // Other name(s): Maizuru Castle

access: Ohorikoen Sta.

8 mins walk from there.

tourist info: free

The castle cannot be entered, so no entrance fee or opening hours!

visited: 12/2012

There's nothing to enter.

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Fukuyama Castle in Hiroshima, 福山城

Fukuyama (Hiroshima)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1622 by Mizuno Katsunari. Kanji: 福山城 // Other name(s): Hisamatsu Castle

access: Fukuyama Sta.

5 min. walk from the north exit of the station. Travel tip: It's between Hiroshima and Okayama.

tourist info: 200¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm). Closed on Mondays (or the following day if it's a national holiday) and from Dec 28th - 31st.

visited: 04/2010

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Fushimi Castle in Kyoto, 伏見城

Momoyama (Kyoto)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1594 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Kanji: 伏見城 // Other name(s): Momoyama Castle

access: Momoyama Sta.

About 15min. walk from there. VERY close to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine.

tourist info: free

The castle cannot be entered anymore, so no entrance fee or opening hours!

visited: 11/2011

This castle is closed to the public and cannot be entered.

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Gifu Castle

Gifu (Gifu)

reconstructed / mt.top

Built in 1201 by the Nikaido clan. Kanji: 岐阜城 // Other name(s): Inabayama Castle

access: Gifu Sta.

From there a short bus ride + ropeway (or short hike). Take one of the following buses: N80高富｣行 or ｢N32｣～｢N86｣! Not too far from Inuyama or Nagoya.

tourist info: 200¥ fee

Open: 9:30am-5:30pm (March 16th - May 11th) // 8:30-5:30 (May 12th - Oct 16th) // 9:30-4:30 (Oct 17th - March 15th). Special panorama view nights longer opening hours up till 10pm, see website link below for more details! No closing days.

visited: 08/2010

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Goryokaku Fort

Hakodate (Hokkaido)

flatland / other buildings

Built in 1864 by Ayasaburo Takeda. Kanji: 五稜郭. // Other name(s): Ryuya Castle.

access: Hakodate Sta.

Take a bus or the streetcar to 'Goryokaku Koen Mae' (about 10 mins) from JR Hakodate Sta., then walk 10 mins.

tourist info: 840¥ fee

Goryokaku Tower opening hours: 8:00-19:00 (May-Oct); 9:00-18:00 (Sept-Apr). Closed: never.

visited: 05/2012

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Gujo Hachiman Castle

Gujo (Gifu)

reconstructed / mt.top

Built in 1559 by Endo Morikazu. Kanji: 郡上八幡城

access: Gujo Hachiman

Quite far from the station, so taxi or bus are the best options. About 20 mins hike from the town center.

tourist info: 300¥ fee

Open: 9:00-17:00 (Mar-May and Sep-Oct); 8:00-18:00 (Jun-Aug); 9:00-16:30 (Nov-Feb). Closed: Dec 20 - Jan 10.

visited: 08/2012

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Gushikawa Castle Kumejima Okinawa

Kume (Okinawa)

hilltop / ruins

Built by Madafutsu Aji between the 14th and 15th century. Kanji: 具志川城

access: Kume Island

From Naha Airport to Kume Island Airport and then with a rental car.

tourist info: free

visited: 01/2013

There's nothing to enter.

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Gushikawa Castle Okinawa

Itoman (Okinawa)

hilltop / ruins

Built in the 13th century by 真金声按司. Kanji: 具志川城

access: Naha

From Naha Airport about 25 mins by car.

tourist info: free

visited: 01/2013

There's nothing to enter.

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Hagi Castle in Yamaguchi, 萩城

Hagi (Yamaguchi)

ruins / mountaintop

Built 1604 by Mori Terumoto. Kanji: 萩城 // Other name(s): Shizuki Castle

access: Higashi Hagi Sta.

From there 20min. by rental bicycle, there's also a bus.

tourist info: free

As it's only ruins there is no entrance fee or opening hours!

visited: 02/2012

Only ruins left, so no building you could enter.

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Hamamatsu Castle in Shizuoka, 浜松城

Hamamatsu (Shizuoka)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1570 by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Kanji: 浜松城 // Other name(s): Hikuma Castle

access: Hamamatsu Sta.

From there about 20min. walk or by bus (from platform #1 or #13 all the buses go there, get off 'Shiyakusho-mae') + 6min. walk, or 5 min. by taxi. If you want to do a castle travel day then you can start early in Hamamatsu, go to Kakegawa next and finally to Shizuoka for Sunpu Castle.

tourist info: 150¥ fee

Open: 8:30am-4:30pm. Closed: December 29th-31st

visited: 04/2012

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Hikone Castle in Shiga, 彦根城

Hikone (Shiga)

original / hilltop

Built in 1603 by Ii Naomasa. Kanji: 彦根城

access: Hikone Sta.

From there about 15 mins walk.

tourist info: 600¥ fee

This includes the price for the garden next to the castle. Open: 8:30am-5pm. No closing days.

visited: 01/2010

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Himeji Castle in Hyogo, 姫路城

Himeji (Hyogo)

original / hilltop

Built in 1333 by Akamatsu Norimura, several expansions e.g. 1601 by Ikeda Terumasa. Kanji: 姫路城 // Other name(s): Shirasagi Castle

access: Himeji Sta.

From there about 15 min. walk. Travel tip: If you have extra time, take a bus from Himeji Castle to Engyo-ji Temple which was one of the settings of 'The Last Samurai' with Tom Cruise!

tourist info: 400¥ fee

The entrance fee might change again once restoration is done in 2015. There are also free admission days (check out the website link below for more info). Open: Sept 1st - April 26th: 9:15am-4:30pm (entrance until: 4:15pm) // 9am-5:30pm (entrance until 5:15pm) // Closed on Dec 29th + 30th

visited: many times

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Hirado Castle in Nagasaki、平戸城

Hirado (Nagasaki)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built from 1704-1718 by Matsuura Takashi. Kanji: 平戸城

access: Tabirahiradoguchi

Tabirahiradoguchi Sta. is quite far from the castle. Take a taxi or use a rental bicycle. From Sasebo Sta. take a bus bound for Hirado and get off 'Hirado Shiyakusho-mae' + 5min. walk

tourist info: 500¥ fee

Open: 8:30am-5:30pm. Closed from December 29th-31st

visited: 01/2012

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Hirosaki Castle in Aomori, 弘前城

Hirosaki (Aomori)

original / hilltop

Built 1611 by Tsugaru Nobuhira. Kanji: 弘前城 // Other name(s): Takaoka Castle

access: Hirosaki Sta.

From there 25min. walk or 5-10min. bus (bound for 'Fujishiro Servise Office' via 'Komagoshi' get off 'Shiyakusho-mae Koen Iriguchi' or via 'Hama-no-Machi' get off 'Bunka Center-mae' or 'Chuo Koko-mae'). Hirosaki is not too far from Hachinohe (Ne Castle).

tourist info: 300¥ fee

Free admission on the last Sunday of May. Open: 9am-5pm (7am-9pm from April 23rd - May 5th). Closed from November 24th - March 31st

visited: 05/2012

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Hiroshima Castle, 広島城

Hiroshima (Hiroshima)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1591 by Mori Terumoto. Kanji: 広島城

access: Hiroshima Sta.

10min. walk fr. Kamiyacho tram stop, 10min. walk fr. Shukkeien or 15min. walk from the Peace Park

tourist info: 360¥ fee

Open: 9am-6pm (9am-5pm from Dec to Febr on weekdays) // Closed: Dec 29th - Jan 2nd

visited: 04/2010

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Hizen Nagoya Castle

Karatsu (Saga)

ruins / hilltop

Built 1592 by Toyotomi Hidyoshi. Kanji: 肥前名護屋城 // Other name(s): Takaoka Castle

access: Karatsu Sta.

About 40 mins by bus from Karatsu Train Station.

tourist info: free

Always open, but there's a huge museum next to it, see link below.

visited: 12/2012

There's nothing to enter, only ruins.

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Iga Ueno Castle in Mie, 伊賀上野城

Iga (Mie)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1585 by Takigawa Katsutoshi. Kanji: 伊賀上野城 / Other name(s): Ueno Castle, Hakuho Castle

access: Uenoshi Sta.

5-10 min. walk from the station. Not too far from Nara or Kyoto.

tourist info: 500¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:45pm). Closed from Dec 29th-31st.

visited: 05/2010

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Imabari Castle

Imabari (Ehime)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1604 by Takatora Todo. Kanji: 今治城 / Other name(s): Fukiage Castle

access: Imabari Sta.

7 mins by bus (bus stop: Imabari-jou-mae) or 20-30 mins walk from JR Imabari Station; 10 mins walk from Imabari Port.

tourist info: 500¥ fee

250 yen entrance fee for children. Open: 9am-5pm. Closed from Dec 29th-31st.

visited: 09/2012

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Inuyama Castle

Inyuama (Aichi)

original / hilltop

Built in 1440 by Oda Hirochika. Kanji: 犬山城 / Other name(s): Hakutei Castle

access: Inuyama Sta.

Or Inuyama Yuen Sta. + 15-20 min. walk. You can visit Gifu Caslte and Ogaki Castle on the same day. It's a nice day trip from Nagoya!

tourist info: 500¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until: 4:30pm). Closed from Dec 29th-31st.

visited: 08/2010

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Itami Castle

Itami (Hyogo)

ruins / flatland

Built from 1336-1392 by the Itami Clan. Kanji: 伊丹城 / Other name(s): Arioka Castle

access: Itami Sta.

2-3 mins walk from the station.

tourist info: free

visited: 09/2013

Only ruins, so nothing to enter.

rating:

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Iwakuni Castle in Yamaguchi, 岩国城

Iwakuni (Yamaguchi)

reconstructed / mt.top

Built in 1608 by Kikkawa Hiroie. Kanji: 岩国城

access: Iwakuni Sta.

From the station 20 min. by bus to the Kintaikyo Bridge + 10 min. walk to the ropeway to the top. Iwakuni is close to Hiroshima and even closer to Miyajima!

tourist info: 290¥ fee

540¥ for ropeway roundtrip / 930¥ for ropeway, castle and bridge combination ticket. Open: 9am-4:45pm (entrance until: 4:30pm). Closed: At the end of the month and at the end of the year the ropeway doesn't run and so the castle is closed, too!

visited: 07/2009

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Iwasaki Castle in Aichi, 岩崎城

Nisshin (Aichi)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in early 16th century by Oda Nobuhide. Kanji: 岩崎城

access: Nisshin Sta.

From the station 10 mins by bus or taxi. You can also walk for about 30-40 mins I did! It's not too far away from Nagoya!

tourist info: free

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until: 4:30pm). Closed on Mondays (unless it's a national holiday) and from Dec 28th - Jan 4th.

visited: 08/2010

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Izushi Castle

Izushi (Hyogo)

other buildings / hilltop

Built in 1599 by Koide Yoshihide. Kanji: 出石城

access: Toyooka Sta.

From the station take a Zentan Bus bound for Izushi (~30 mins), get off at the last stop. From there it's a 5 mins walk.

tourist info: free

visited: 04/2013

There's nothing that could be entered.

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Kakegawa Castle in Shizuoka, 掛川城

Kakegawa (Shizuoka)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1497 by Asahina Yasuhiro. Kanji: 掛川城 / Other name(s): Kumokiri

access: Kakegawa Sta.

10 mins walk from the station- Travel tip: It's between Hamamatsu and Shizuoka!

tourist info: 300¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (March 1st - November 20th), 9am-4:30pm (Nov 21st - Feb 29th). The main tower has no closing days.

visited: 04/2012

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Kakunodate Castle

Kakunodate (Akita)

ruins / mountaintop

Built in 1620 by Ashina Yoshikatsu. Kanji: 角館城 / Other name(s): Asakura Castle, Ryugasaki Castle

access: Kakunodate Sta.

15 mins walk from the station.

tourist info: free

As it's only ruins it's free of charge and always open.

visited: 05/2012

Absolutely nothing left.

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Kaminoyama Castle in Yamagata, 上山城

Kaminoyama (Yamagata)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1535 by the Takenaga Yoshitada. Kanji: 上山城 / Other name(s): Tsukioka Castle

access: Kaminoyama Sta.

From there 15min. walk or 3min. by taxi. Not too far from Yamagata City.

tourist info: 400¥ fee

Open: 9am-4:45pm. Closed: Dec 29th-31st and in July 3rd Monday-Friday

visited: 05/2012

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Kanazawa Castle in Ishikawa, 金沢城

Kanazawa (Ishikawa)

other buildings / hilltop

Built in 1580 by Maeda Toshiie. Kanji: 金沢城 / Other name(s): Oyama Castle

access: Kanazawa Sta.

From there 15 min. by bus (bus stop: Kenrokuen or Ishikawa-mon). Not too far from Takayama (Gifu).

tourist info: 300¥ fee

Open: 9am-4:30pm (entrance until: 4pm). Closed on Mondays (unless it's a national holiday) and from Dec 28th - Jan 4th.

visited: 01/2011

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Karatsu Castle

Karatsu (Saga)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1608 by Terasawa Hirotaka. Kanji: 唐津城 / Other name(s): Maizuru

access: Karatsu Sta.

20min. walk from the station.

tourist info: 400¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm. Closed: Dec 29th-31st

visited: 12/2012

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Katsuren Castle

Uruma (Okinawa)

ruins / mountaintop

Built in the early 14th century by Katsuren Aji. Kanji: 勝連城

access: Naha

Your best option is to get a rental car on the main island of Okinawa to get there. There's also a bus that leaves from Naha Bus Center. Take bus #52 and get off at Katsuren Danchi-mae (~100 mins).

tourist info: free

visited: 12/2012

There's no main tower to enter, only ruins.

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Kawagoe Castle

Kawagoe (Saitama)

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1457 by Ota Doshin. Kanji: 川越城

access: Hon-Kawagoe

From Hon-Kawagoe Station you can walk (~ 20 mins). It's close to the Warehouse District.

tourist info: 100¥ fee

50 yen for children. Open: 9:00-17:00 (entrance until 16:30). Closed: Mondays (or following day if Mon is a national holiday), 4th Friday of each month (unless it's a national holiday) / Dec 28 - Jan 4.

visited: 05/2012

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Kawahara Castle in Tottori, 河原城

Tottori (Tottori)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1580, ruled by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Kanji: 河原城

access: Tottori Sta.

From there: 30min. by bus bound for 'Chizu' get off at 'Kawahara' + 15 mins walk.

tourist info: free

Free entrance. Open: 8:30am-6pm. Saturdays from April - September: 10am-7pm. Entrance is until 30min. before closing time. Closed on Mondays (unless it's a national holiday, then closed on the following day) and at the end of the year.

visited: 04/2011

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Kinojo Castle

Soja (Okayama)

other buildings / mt.top

Founded in the 7th century by Yamato Choutei. Maybe the oldest castle in Japan. Kanji: 鬼ノ城

access: Hattori Sta.

From there you can either walk (almost 6km) or take a taxi.

tourist info: free

Free entrance. Open: 8:30-17:15. Closed: Mondays and Dec 29 - Jan 3.

visited: 10/2013

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Kisai Castle

Kazo (Saitama)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1455 by Matsudaira Yasushige. Kanji: 騎西城 / Other name(s): Negoya Castle, Yamane Castle.

access: Kounosu Sta.

Bus from either Kounosu Sta. or Kazo Sta.: From Kazo Station's North Exit take a bus and get off at 'Fukushi Center'. Or take a bus from the East Exit of Kounosu Station and get off at 'Fukushi Center'.

tourist info: free

Open: 9:00-16:30.

visited: 05/2012

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Kishiwada Castle in Osaka, 岸和田城

Kishiwada (Osaka)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1585 by Koide Hidemasa. Kanji: 岸和田城 / Other name(s): Chikiri Castle

access: Kishiwada Sta.

10 mins walk from the station. It's not too far from Osaka.

tourist info: 300¥ fee

Open: 10am-5pm. Entrance is until 4:30pm. Closed on Mondays (unless it's a national holiday, then closed on the following day) and from Dec 29th - Jan 3rd.

visited: 11/2011

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Kiyosu Castle in Nagoya, 清洲城

Kiyosu (Aichi)

reconstructed / flatland

Built around 1400 by Shiba Yoshishige. Kanji: 清洲城

access: Kiyosu Sta.

Or Shin-Kiyosu Sta. + 15 min. walk. It's very close to central Nagoya!

tourist info: 300¥ fee

Open: 9am-4:30pm (entrance until: 4:15pm). Closed on Mondays (unless it's a national holiday, then closed on the following day or during the cherry blossom season it's opened as well) and from Dec 29th-31st.

visited: 08/2010

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Kochi Castle, 高知城

Kochi (Kochi)

original / hilltop

Built from 1601-1611 by Yamanouchi Kazatoyo. Kanji: 高知城 / Other name(s): Taka Castle

access: Kochi Sta.

From there 25 mins walk or 15 mins by tram.

tourist info: 400¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm. Closed from Dec 26th-31st.

visited: 04/2009

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Kokura Castle in Kitakyushu, 小倉城

Kitakyushu (Fukuoka)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1602 by Hosokawa Tadaoki. Kanji: 小倉城 / Other name(s): Katsuyama Castle

access: Kokura Sta.

From there 15 mins walk or 10mins walk from Nishi Kokura Station. Kokura is not too far from Fukuoka or Yamaguchi.

tourist info: 350¥ fee

Open: 9am-6pm (April - October); 9am-5pm (November - March). Entrance is until 30min. before closing time. No closing days.

visited: 08/2008

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Kubota Castle in the Senshu Park of Akita、久保田城

Akita (Akita)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1604 by the Satake clan. Kanji:　久保田城

access: Akita Sta.

From there 10 mins walk to Senshu Park. It's not too far from Kakunodate.

tourist info: 100¥ fee

Open: 9am-4:30pm; Closed: Dec 1st - Mar 19th

visited: 04/2012

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Kumamoto Castle, 熊本城

Kumamoto (Kumamoto)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built 1467 by Ideta Hidenobu. Kanji: 熊本城 / Other name(s): Ginnan Castle

access: Kumamoto Sta.

From there 30-40 min. walk or 10 min. by tram (Kumamotojo-mae tram stop). Not too far from Kumamoto is the volcano Aso, always worth a visit!

tourist info: 500¥ fee

Open: 8:30am-6pm (April - October); 8:30am-5pm (November - March). Entrance is until 30min. before closing time. Closed from Dec 29th-31st.

visited: 08/2008

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Kushima Castle in Omura, Nagasaki, 玖島城

Omura (Nagasaki)

other buildings / hilltop

Built in 1599 by Omura Yoshiaki. Kanji: 玖島城 / Other name(s): Omura Castle

access: Omura Sta.

20-30min. walk from the station. Travel tip: It's between Nagasaki and Hirado.

tourist info: free

There is nothing that could be entered, so no entrance fee and no opening hours.

visited: 01/2012

There's nothing to enter!

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Marugame Castle in Kagawa, 丸亀城

Marugame (Kagawa)

original / hilltop

Built in 1587, ruled by Ikoma Chikamasa. Kanji: 丸亀城 / Other name(s): Kameyama Castle, Horai Castle

access: Kagawa Sta.

From there 10 mins walk or 5 mins by rental bicycle.

tourist info: 200¥ fee

Open: 9am-4:30pm (entrance until 4pm). Closed: Dec 25th - 31st. Make sure to also check out the uchiwa workshop!

visited: 03/2011

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Maruoka Castle

Sakai (Fukui)

original / hilltop

Built in 1576 by Shibata Katsutoyo. Kanji: 丸岡城 / Other name(s): Kasumiga Castle

access: Fukui Sta.

Take a Keifuku Bus from Fukui Sta. or Awara-onsen Sta. Get off at 'Shiro-iriguchi'.

tourist info: 300¥ fee

150 yen for children. Open: 9:00-17:00. No closing days.

visited: 08/2012

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Matsue Castle in Shimane, 松江城

Matsue (Shimane)

original / hilltop

Built from 1607-1611 by Horio Yoshiharu. Kanji: 松江城 / Other name(s): Chidori Castle

access: Matsue Sta.

From there, 10 mins by bus. It's not too far away from Izumo Shrine.

tourist info: 550¥ fee

50% off for foreigners, even for those living in Japan! Open: 8:30am-6:30pm (April - September); 8:30am-5pm (October - March). Entrance is until 30min. before closing time! No closing days.

visited: 04/2011

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Matsumae Castle in Hokkaido, 松前城

Matsumae (Hokkaido)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1849 by Matsumae Takahiro. Kanji: 松前城 / Other name(s): Fukuyama Castle

access: Hakodate Sta.

1.5h by bus from Kikonai Sta. or 3h by bus from Hakodate Sta.

tourist info: 350¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm). Closed from Dec 11th - Apr 9th.

visited: 05/2012

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Matsumoto Castle in Nagano, 松本城

Matsumoto (Nagano)

original / flatland

Built in 1504 by Shimadachi Sadanaga, used from 1504-1868. Kanji: 松本城 / Other name(s): Fukashi Castle

access: Matsumoto Sta.

15 mins walk from the station.

tourist info: 600¥ fee

This also grants you access to the museum in the park next to the castle! Open: 8:30am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm). Closed: Dec 29th - Jan 3rd.

visited: 01/2011

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Matsuyama Castle in Ehime, 伊予松山城

Matsuyama (Ehime)

original / hilltop

Built in 1603 by Kato Yoshiakira. Kanji: 伊予松山城. Iyo Matsuyama Castle in Matsuyama should not be confused with Bitch Matsuyama Castle in Okayama!

access: Matsuyama Sta.

From the station: 10 min. by tram (tram stop: Okaido) + ropeway.

tourist info: 500¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (Feb - July + Sept - Nov); 9am-5:30pm (in August); 8:30-5pm (Dec - Jan). Please check the ropeway working hours as well in the link provided below!

visited: 04/2009

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Mihara Castle

Mihara (Hiroshima)

ruins / flatland

Built in 1567 by Kobayakawa Takakage. Kanji: 三原城. / Other name(s): Ukishiro

access: Mihara Sta.

It's right next to Mihara Station.

tourist info: free

Always open as there are only ruins left. I actually visited when it was already dark.

visited: 09/2013

Only ruins, so nothing to enter.

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Morioka Castle Ruins in Iwate Prefecture, 盛岡城

Morioka (Iwate)

ruins / hilltop

Built in 1592 by Nanbu Nobunao. Kanji: 盛岡城

access: Morioka Sta.

20 mins walk or 5 mins by taxi from the station. Travel tip: Not too far away from Hiraizumi.

tourist info: free

As it's only ruins, there is no entrance fee and also no opening hours.

visited: 05/2012

There's no building left to enter, only ruins.

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Muya Castle in Naruto, 撫養城

Naruto (Tokushima)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built around 1580 by unknown. Kanji: 撫養城 / Other name(s): Okazaki Castle

access: Naruto Sta.

From there you'll head for 'Myoukensan Park' for about 15 mins

tourist info: 200¥ fee

100 yen for children. No fee on national holidays. Open: 9:30-17:00. Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, then closed on Tuesday); December 28th - January 4th.

visited: 04/2009

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Nagahama Castle in Shiga, 長浜城

Nagahama (Shiga)

reconstructed / flatland

Built 1575 by Hashiba (Toyotomi) Hideyoshi. Kanji: 長浜城

access: Nagahama Sta.

3 mins walk from the station.

tourist info: 400¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm). Closed from Dec 27th - Jan 2nd. Closing days change every year, so please check the link provided below!

visited: 01/2010

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Nagoya Castle in Aichi, 名古屋城

Nagoya (Aichi)

reconstructed / flatland

New castle built 1612 by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Kanji: 名古屋城

access: Nagoya Sta.

From the station by subway to Sakae Sta. (5 min.), change to Meijo Subway Line to Shiyakusho Sta. (2 min.) + 3 min. walk // or fr. Nagoya Sta. by loop bus (25 min.)

tourist info: 500¥ fee

Open: 9am-4:30pm (entrance until 4:00pm). Closed: Dec 29th - Jan 1st.

visited: 08/2010

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Nakagusuku Castle

Nakagusuku (Okinawa)

ruins / mountaintop

Founded by Sakinakagusuku Aji in the middle of the 14th century. Kanji: 中城城

access: Naha

Take a bus to Nakagusuku from Naha Bus Center (~50 mins), but I really recommend a rental car!

tourist info: 400¥ fee

300 yen for junior high and high school students. 200 yen for elementary school kids. Open: 8:30-17:00 (-18:00 May-Sep). No closing days.

visited: 01/2013

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Nakatsu Castle in Oita, 中津城

Nakatsu (Oita)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1588 by Kuroda Yoshitaka. Kanji: 中津城 / Other name(s): Oogi Castle

access: Nakatsu Sta.

20 mins walk from the station. Travel tip: Not too far away from Beppu.

tourist info: 400¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm, no closing days.

visited: 12/2011

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Nakijin Castle

Nakijin (Okinawa)

ruins / mountaintop

Built in the 13th century by the Aji clan. Kanji: 今帰仁城 / Other name(s): Hokuzan Castle

access: Naha

Best reached by rental car. Or take a highway bus (#111) from Naha to Nago Bus Terminal (~90 mins) and transfer to bus #65 or 66 that run counterclockwise and clockwise respectively in a loop around the peninsula. Get off at Nakijin Joseki Iriguchi (45-60 mins), then walk for 15-20 mins.

tourist info: 400¥ fee

The fee is for the castle and the museum. Free for children. 300 yen for elementary to high school kids. Open:8:00-18:00.

visited: 12/2012

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Ne Castle in Hachinohe, Aomori, 根城

Hachinohe (Aomori)

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1334 by Moroyuki Nanbu. Kanji: 根城

access: Hachinohe Sta.

From there 10 mins by taxi or 15 mins by bus (bound for '田面木' takes about 12 mins; get off 'Nejou' + 1 mins walk). Travel tip: Not too far away from Hirosaki.

tourist info: 250¥ fee

Combo ticket for castle and museum: 400¥; Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm). Closed: Mondays, days after a national holiday, Dec 27th - Jan 4th

visited: 05/2012

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Nijo Castle in Kyoto, 二条城

Kyoto

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Kanji: 二条城

access: Kyoto Sta.

From there, by subway to Karasuma Oike Sta., transfer to the Tozai Line to Nijojo-mae Sta. (15-20 mins).

tourist info: 600¥ fee

Open: 8:45am-7pm (entrance until 4pm). Closed: Dec 26th - Jan 4th. Also closed on Tuesdays in the following months: Dec, Jan, July and August.

visited: many times

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Numata Castle

Numata (Gunma)

ruins / mountaintop

Built in 1532 by Numata Akiyasu. Kanji: 沼田城 / Other name(s): Kurauchi Castle

access: Numata Sta.

From there take a bus or walk for 30 mins.

tourist info: free

Free of charge as it is a park and only ruins are left.

visited: 08/2012

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Odawara Castle in Kanagawa, 小田原城

Odawara (Kanagawa)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1495 by Hojo Soun. Kanji: 小田原城

access: Odawara Sta.

10 mins walk from the station. Travel tip: Can be visited on your way from Shizuoka to Yokohama.

tourist info: 400¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30); until 6pm (entrance until 5:30) from June to August and on national holidays. Closed: Dec 31st - Jan 1st and the 2nd Wednesday of December.

visited: 04/2012

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Ogaki Castle in Gifu, 大垣城

Ogaki (Gifu)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1535 by Miyakawa Yasusada. Kanji: 大垣城

access: Ogaki Sta.

5-10 min. walk from the station. You can easily do Inuyama Castle, Gifu Castle and this one in one day!

tourist info: 100¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm). Closed: Tuesdays (if Tuesday is a national hoiday then closed on Wednesdays), the following day of a national holiday (unless it's a Sunday or Tuesday, then the next day closed) and Dec 29th - Jan 3rd. The closing days are quite confusing, so better have a look at the link provided below!

visited: 08/2010

Couldn't enter due to construction works + not enough time.

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Okayama Castle, 岡山城

Okayama (Okayama)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1597 by Ukita Hideie. Kanji: 岡山城 / Other name(s): Kinu Castle

access: Okayama Sta.

25 mins walk from the station or take the tram (get off: Shiroshita) + 10 mins walk.

tourist info: 300¥ fee

560¥ for the castle and Korakuen garden right next to it (highly recommended!). Open: 9am-5pm. Closed: Dec 29th - 31st. Also sometimes closed before special exhibitions.

visited: many times

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Okazaki Castle in Aichi, 岡崎城

Okazaki (Aichi)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1455 by Saigo Tsugiyori. Kanji: 岡崎城 / Other name(s): Ryu Castle.

access: Okazaki Sta.

10-15 min. walk from the station. Not too far from Nagoya.

tourist info: 200¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm). Closed: Dec 29th - 31st.

visited: 08/2010

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Onomichi Castle in Hiroshima, 尾道城

Onomichi (Hiroshima)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1946 (no historical value). Kanji: 尾道城

access: Onomichi Sta.

20 mins walk from the station. Travel tip: not too far away from Fukuyama Castle.

tourist info: 450¥ fee

Not sure if the castle can still be entered nowadays.

visited: 04/2010

No time to go close enough to check out if it could be entered.

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Osaka Castle, 大阪城

Osaka

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Kanji: 大阪城 / Other name(s): Kin Castle

access: Osaka Sta.

By subway to Tanimachi 4-chome Sta. or by train to Osakajokoen Sta.

tourist info: 600¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm); opening hours are extended during certain periods in spring and summer. Closed: Dec 28th - Jan 1st.

visited: many times

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Oshi Castle

Gyoda (Saitama)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1479 by Narita Akiyasu. Kanji: 忍城

access: Gyoda Sta.

Take a bus from there or walk for about 25 mins

tourist info: 200¥ fee

100 yen for students, 50 yen for children. Open: 9:00-16:30 (last admission: 16:00). Closed: Mon, the 4th Friday of every month.

visited: 05/2013

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Ozu Castle

Ozu (Ehime)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1331 by Utsunomiya Toyofusa. Kanji: 大阪城 / Other name(s): Kin Castle

access: Iyo Ozu Sta.

20 mins walk from the station.

tourist info: 500¥ fee

200 yen for children. Open: 9:00-17:00 (last entry: 16:30). No closing days.

visited: 09/2012

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Saga Castle

Saga (Saga)

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1608 by Nabeshima Naoshige. Kanji: 佐賀城

access: Saga Sta.

25 mins walk from the station or take a bus at gate 3. Get off at 'Sagajo-ato' (~10 mins).

tourist info: free

Open: 9:30-18:00. Closed: Dec 29-31

visited: 12/2012

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Sasayama Castle in Hyogo, 篠山城

Sasayama (Hyogo)

other buildings / hilltop

Built in 1609 by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Kanji: 篠山城 / Other name(s): Kiriga Castle

access: S.y.guchi Sta.

From Sasayamaguchi Sta., 15min. by 'Shinki' bus (get off 'Nikaimachi') + short walk. Travel tip: Not too far from Kobe or Takarazuka.

tourist info: 400¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30). Closed on Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, then closed on Tuesday) and Dec 25th - Jan 1st.

visited: 03/2012

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Sendai Castle Ruins, 仙台城

Sendai (Miyagi)

other buildings / mt.top

Built in 1600 by Date Masamune. Kanji: 仙台城 / Other name(s): Aoba Castle

access: Sendai Sta.

From there 15min. by taxi or by bus (Loople-Sendai) go to bus pool #15-3 to 'Sendai-jo-ato'

tourist info: 700¥ fee

Aoba Memorial Museum - Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30); December-March: 9am-4pm. No closing days.

visited: 01/2009

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Shibata Castle

Shibata (Niigata)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1598 by Mizoguchi Hidekatsu. Kanji: 新発田城/ Other name(s): Ayame Castle

access: Shibata Sta.

From there 20 mins walk.

tourist info: free

Open: 9:00-17:00 (-16:30 in November). Closed: December-March.

visited: 08/2012

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Shimabara Castle in Nagasaki, 島原城

Shimabara (Nagasaki)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1618 by Matsukura Shigemasa. Kanji: 島原城 / Other name(s): Moritake Castle

access: Shimabara Sta.

From there 10 mins walk. Travel tip: not too far from Mt. Unzen!

tourist info: 520¥ fee

Open: 9am-5:30pm. Closed: December 29th-30th

visited: 01/2012

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Shingu Castle

Shingu (Wakayama)

ruins / hilltop

Built in 1618 by Tadayoshi Asano. Kanji: 新宮城 / Other name(s): Tankaku Castle

access: Shingu Sta.

15 mins walk from there. Travel tip: Kumano Hayatama Taishia is only 5 mins on foot away.

tourist info: free

Always open as only ruins are left.

visited: 11/2012

Only ruins left, so nothing to enter.

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Shoryuji Castle

Nagaokakyo (Kyoto)

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1339 by Hosokawa Yoriharu. Kanji: 勝竜寺城

access: Nagaokakyo Sta.

10 mins walk from the station.

tourist info: free

Open: 9:00-18:00 (Apr-Oct); 9:00-17:00 (Nov-Mar). Closed: Tuesdays and from Dec 28th - Jan 4th

visited: 04/2013

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Shuri Castle

Naha (Okinawa)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built probably in the 14th century by unknown. Kanji: 首里城

access: Naha

Take the monorail from Naha Airport or the city center to Shuri Station, then take the Bus 8 and get off at the 'Shurijo-mae' bus stop. You can also wak from the monorail station (~ 15 mins).

tourist info: 800¥ fee

Open: 8:30-19:00 (Apr-Jun and Oct-Nov); 8:30-20:00 (Jul-Sep); 8:30-19:00 (Dec-Mar). Last admission until 30 mins before closing time. Closed: 1st Wed and Thu of July.

visited: 12/2012

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Sunpu Castle in Shizuoka, 駿府城

Shizuoka (Shizuoka)

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1585 by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Kanji: 駿府城

access: Shizuoka Sta.

10-15min. walk from there. Travel tip: On your way to the castle park, there's a really high business building. You can go up to the highest floor which is a great observation platform for free! You can also see Mt. Fuji from there if you're lucky!

tourist info: 200¥ fee

Open: 9am-4:30pm. Closed: Mondays (unless the Monday is a national holiday) and from Dec 29th - Jan 3rd

visited: 04/2012

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Takada Castle

Joetsu (Niigata)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1614 by Matsudaira Tadateru. Reconstructed in 1993. Kanji: 高田城

access: Takada Sta.

20 mins walk from there.

tourist info: 200¥ fee

100 yen for primary, junior high and high school students. Open: 9:00-17:00 (-21:00 during sakura season). Closed: Mondays (on the following day of Mon is a national holiday), the following day of a national holiday, Dec 29th - Jan 3rd, middle of Jan until end of Feb.

visited: 08/2012

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Takamatsu Castle in Kagawa, 高松城

Takamatsu (Kagawa)

other buildings / flatland

Built from 1588-1590 by Ikoma Chikamasa. Kanji: 高松城 / Other name(s): Tamamo Castle

access: Takamatsu Sta.

10 mins walk from there. Travel tip: Not too far from Marugame!

tourist info: 200¥ fee

The following times are for the East Gate! Open: 7am-6pm (April - September); 8:30-5pm (October - March). Closed: Dec 29th-31st

visited: 04/2011

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Takasaki Castle

Takasaki (Gunma)

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1597 by Ii Naomasa. Kanji: 高崎城 / Other name(s): Wada Castle

access: Takasaki Sta.

10 mins walk from there.

tourist info: free

Always open. Nothing to enter, so free admission.

visited: 08/2012

Nothing to enter left.

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Takashima Castle in Nagano, 高島城

Suwa (Nagano)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1592 by Hineno Takayoshi. Kanji: 高島城 / Other name(s): Takasaki Castle; Suwa no Ukijiro

access: Kamisuwa Sta.

15 min. walk from there. Travel tip: It's close to Matsumoto Castle!

tourist info: 300¥ fee

Open: 9am-5:30pm; 9am-4:30pm (from October-March). Closed: Dec 26th - 31st

visited: 01/2011

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Takatori Castle in Nara

Takatori (Nara)

ruins / mountaintop

Built in 1332 by Ochi Kunizumi. Kanji: 高取城 / Other name(s): Fuyo Castle

access: Tsubosakayama

Best to take a bus to Tsubosaka Temple (also worth a visit) and then hike for about 1h up to the castle ruins. Lots of walking involved. Or take a taxi from the station. Best visited in late November for the autumn colors.

tourist info: free

Always open, but you shouldn't hike down after sunset.

visited: 11/2013

Only ruins, nothing to enter.

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Takeda Castle

Asago (Hyogo)

ruins / mountaintop

Built in 1441 by Ohtagaki Mitsukage. Kanji: 竹田城 / Other name(s): Torafushi Castle

access: Takeda Sta.

30 mins hike from the station. The trail begins behind the station. You can take a taxi up (~15 mins).

tourist info: 300¥ fee

It used to be free of charge. It was when I visited. Always open (not sure how that's possible with the new admission fee, though).

visited: 04/2013

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Tanaka Castle in Shizuoka, 田中城

Fujieda (Shizuoka)

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1537 by Yui Masanobu. Kanji: 田中城

access: Nishiyaizu Sta.

From the station it's a 20min. walk. Travel tip: It's between Kakegawa and Shizuoka.

tourist info: free

Free admisson. Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm). Closed: Mondays, day after a national holiday and around the end of the year / beginning of the new year.

visited: 04/2012

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Tatebayashi Castle

Tatebayashi (Gunma)

other buildings / flatland

Built in the middle of the 16th century by Akai Terumitsu. Kanji: 館林城 / Other name(s): Obiki Castle

access: Tatebayashi Sta.

10 mins walk from the station.

tourist info: free

Always open. Nothing to enter, so no fee.

visited: 08/2012

Nothing left to enter.

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Tatsuno Castle in Hyogo, 龍野城

Tatsuno (Hyogo)

other buildings / mt.top

Built in about 1500 by Akamatsu Murahide and his mighty family. Kanji: 龍野城 / Other name(s): Asagiri Castle, Keirozan Castle.

access: Hontatsuno Sta.

Walk about 20 mins from there or 30-40 mins from Tatsuno Sta. You can also take a taxi (5-10 mins). Travel tip: Only 15 mins by local train from Himeji!

tourist info: free

Open: 9am-5pm. Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, then closed on Tuesday).

visited: 04/2012

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Tottori Castle Ruins, 鳥取城

Tottori (Tottori)

ruins / mountaintop

Built in 1545 by Yamana Nobumichi. Kanji: 鳥取城 / Other name(s): Kyusho Castle

access: Tottori Sta.

From there: 5min. by bus + short walk or by rental bicycle about 5-10min., hiking up to the top 20-30min.

tourist info: free

As only ruins are left, there is no entrance fee and no opening hours. I suggest hiking up to the top of the mountain if you have time. You can see all the way to the famous sand dunes!

visited: 04/2011

Only ruins, so you can't enter anywhere anymore!

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Toyama Castle, 富山城

Toyama (Toyama)

reconstructed / flatland

Built in 1543 by Jinbo Nagamoto. Kanji: 富山城 / Other name(s): Azumi Castle

access: Toyama Sta.

10 mins walk from there.

tourist info: 200¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm (entrance until 4:30pm). Closed during the New Year's holiday.

visited: 01/2011

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Tsuwano Castle in Shimane

Tsuwano (Shimane)

ruins / mountaintop

Built in 1283 by Yoshimi Yoriyuki. Kanji: 津和野城 / Other name(s): Sanbonmatsu Castle

access: Tsuwano Sta.

From there 20-30min. walk/hike + 2min. ropeway to go to the top. Travel tip: Not too far away from Yamaguchi.

tourist info: free

As it's only ruins, there is no entrance fee and no closing days.

visited: 02/2012

I couldn't go up to the top as the ropeway was out of order in winter!!

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Tsuyama Castle in Okayama, 津山城

Tsuyama (Okayama)

other buildings / hilltop

Built from 1604-1616 by Mori Tadamasa. Kanji: 津山城 / Other name(s): Kakuzan Castle

access: Tsuyama Sta.

From there: 15 mins walk or 10 mins by rental bicycle. Travel tip: Not too far away from Okayama or Tottori!

tourist info: 300¥ fee

Open: 8:40am-7pm; 8:40am-5pm (from October - April); 7:30am-10pm (during the 'Cherry Blossom Festival'). Closed: Dec 29th-31st.

visited: 04/2011

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Ueda Castle

Ueda (Nagano)

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1583 by Sanada Masayuki. Kanji: 上田城 / Other name(s): Amagafuchi Castle, Isesaki Castle, Matsuo Castle, Sanada Castle

access: Ueda Sta.

15 mins walk from there.

tourist info: free

There is nothing to enter and no closing days.

visited: 08/2012

Nothing there to enter.

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Uegusuku Castle

Kume (Okinawa)

ruins / hilltop

Built in the 14th century by Chinaha Aji(??). Kanji: 宇江城城跡

access: Kume Island

You can take a ferry or a plane from Naha Airport to Kume Island and from there it's best to travel by rental car.

tourist info: free

Always open as it's only ruins.

visited: 01/2013

Only ruins, so no tower that could be entered.

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Uwajima Castle in Okayama, 津山城

Uwajima (Ehime)

original / hilltop

Built in 1596 by Todo Takatora. Kanji: 宇和島城 / Other name(s): Tsurushima Castle

access: Uwajima Sta.

10 mins walk from there.

tourist info: 200¥ fee

Open: 9:00-16:00 (Oct – Mar); 9:00-17:00 (Apr – Sept). Closed: Always open, only the 'Warehouse Museum' next to the castle is closed on: December 29th – January 3rd; Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday).

visited: 09/2012

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Wakayama Castle, 和歌山城

Wakayama (Wakayama)

reconstructed / hilltop

Built in 1585 by Toyotomi Hidenaga, brother of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Kanji: 和歌山城 / Other name(s): Takegaki Castle; Torafusu Castle

access: Wakayama Sta.

From there 20 mins walk or 10 mins by bus (get off 'Koenmae').

tourist info: 400¥ fee

Open: 9am-5pm. Closed: Dec 29th - Jan 3rd.

visited: 07/2011

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Yamagata Castle, 山形城

Yamagata (Yamagata)

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1356 by Shiba Kaneyori who later changed his name to Mogami. Kanji: 山形城 / Other name(s): Kasumiga Castle

access: Yamagata Sta.

10 mins walk from there. Travel tip: Kaminoyama Castle is very close, also the famous Yamadera.

tourist info: free

The East Gate is open from 5am-10pm. There are no closing days.

visited: 04/2012

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Yamato Koriyama Castle

Yamato Koriyama (Nara)

other buildings / mt.top

Built in 1580 by Tsutsui Junkei. Kanji: 大和郡山城

access: Y. Koriyama Sta.

A 6 mins walk from there.

tourist info: free

Always open, no admission fee. Highly recommended during cherry blossom season.

visited: 04/2013

There's nothing to enter.

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Yoshinogari in Saga

Yoshinogari (Saga)

other buildings / flatland

Built during the Yayoi Period (300 B.C. - 300 A.D.) by unknown. Kanji: 吉野ヶ里

access: Kanzaki Sta.

Get off at Kanzaki or Yoshinogari Ken Station. From there it's about 15 mins on foot.

tourist info: 400¥ fee

Open: 9:00-17:00 (Jan-May and Sep-Dec); 9:00-18:00 (Jun-Aug). Closed: Dec 31st and 3rd Mon and Tue in January.

visited: 12/2012

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Zakimi Castle

Yomitan (Okinawa)

ruins / mountaintop

Built in the 15th century by Aji Gosamaru. Kanji: 座喜味城 / Other name(s): Yuntanzagusuku

access: Naha

The castle is about 25km outside of Naha City. You can go there by rental car or bus. From Naha Bus Terminal take bus #25 to Takashiho Iriguchi (~80 mins), then walk for 20-30 mins.

tourist info: free

Ruins are always open, but there's a museum which costs 200 yen and is open from 9:00 to 17:00. The museum is closed on Mondays (the next day if Mon is a national holiday), June 23, Dec 29 - Jan 3.

visited: 12/2012

Nothing there to enter, but I visited the museum, of course.

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Zeze Castle

Otsu　（Shiga)

other buildings / flatland

Built in 1601 by Toda Kazuaki. Kanji: 膳所城 / Other name(s): Sekiroku Castle

access: Zeze Sta.

20 mins walk. However, the yagura can be found in Chausuyama Park.

tourist info: free

Always open, nothing to enter.

visited: 04/2013

No tower that could be entered.

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