Kakegawa Castle Audio Guide
Kakegawa Castle in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka, is said to have begun around 1500 as Kakegawa Old Castle, built by Asahina Yasuhiro, a senior retainer of the Imagawa clan. The current keep is a modern reconstruction based on the keep built in the Sengoku period under Yamauchi Kazutoyo, and the castle later flourished in the Edo period as a key post on the Tokaido route…
Tap a button to hear the section.
Overview
Overview
Kakegawa Castle, in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka, is said to have started around 1500 as Kakegawa Old Castle, built by Asahina Yasuhiro, a senior retainer of the Imagawa clan. The site later developed as a key point on the Tokaido corridor in the Edo period. One of its greatest treasures is the surviving Ninomaru Palace, one of the few castle palaces remaining in Japan, preserving the refined architecture of its time. The keep has been reconstructed in timber, known for its elegant silhouette and bright white walls. In spring, the riverside rows of Kakegawa-zakura cherry trees add color and make visits especially enjoyable.
Access
Access
Access is very convenient: it’s about a 10-minute walk from JR Kakegawa Station. From the north exit, walk straight to reach the Otemon Gate and the keep. By car, it’s roughly 5 minutes from the Tomei Expressway’s Kakegawa IC. Located in the heart of the city, it’s easy to combine with sightseeing and meals. In spring, Kakegawa-zakura cherry trees are sometimes illuminated, making an evening stroll a great option.
Parking
Parking
For visiting, the Otemon Parking Lot is one of the best options, located right by the Otemon Gate, with easy access to both the keep and the Ninomaru Palace. There is also parking on the rear side of the Ninomaru area, allowing an approach from the back. Because the castle sits in a downtown area, there are many nearby coin-operated parking lots, so it’s generally not too difficult to find a space even when it’s busy.
Highlights
Highlights
Highlights start with the two-story, tower-gate-style Otemon Gate and the wooden plaques behind it bearing the names of successive lords. Beyond the gate, the Sakagawa River is lined with Kakegawa-zakura cherry trees; in spring, seasonal evening illuminations are sometimes held. The reconstructed wooden keep offers sweeping views of Kakegawa from the top floor, and on clear days you can look out toward the old castle site as well. At the foot of the keep stands the exceptionally rare Ninomaru Palace, where you can sense the daily life and governance of the castle’s lords. From the Sannomaru Plaza, it’s a pleasure to admire the full view of the keep across the lawn with a cup of Shizuoka tea. Local treats, such as castle-themed monaka sweets branded “Kakegawa Castle,” are also part of the fun. Nearby, Dormy Inn Kakegawa offers rooftop open-air baths with views toward the keep—an inviting choice if you want to stay overnight and take your time.
