Wakayama Castle

Wakayama Castle

Wakayama Castle is situated on Mount Torafusu in the heart of Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, and is therefore often referred to as Torafusu Castle. It was originally a renkaku-style hirayama castle built in 1585 by Toyotomi Hidenaga, and is counted among Japan’s three great connected hirayama castles alongside Matsuyama Castle and Himeji Castle. The Kino River flows along the northern side of the castle, serving as a natural moat.

Since its construction, Wakayama Castle has served as the feudal domain of notable historical figures in Japanese military history, including the Toyotomi, Asano, and Tokugawa clans, boasting a glorious past. However, it has also undergone significant changes over time, bearing witness to several major turning points in Japanese history: it was abandoned during the abolition of the han system in the 4th year of the Meiji era (1871), during which many of its buildings were demolished. On July 9, 1945 (20th year of the Showa era), it was bombed by U.S. forces, resulting in the burning of the tenshu (main keep). The current castle structure was largely rebuilt in 1958, though at only a quarter of its original size.

Today, the area around Wakayama Castle has been developed into Wakayama Park. The park's 1,300 cherry blossom trees bloom brilliantly every spring, transforming the entire castle grounds into a sea of pink. The reconstructed tenshu houses various exhibits related to the Tokugawa family, and its top floor features an observation deck where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Kino River and the city of Wakayama.

Wakayama Castle

Must-visit reason: The most iconic sightseeing spot in Wakayama Prefecture

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Japan

Province/State where the attraction is located: Wakayama Prefecture

City where the attraction is located: Wakayama