Wanderyn
Inuyama Castle
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

Inuyama Castle

Getting around: Take the Meitetsu line from Nagoya to Inuyama Station, about 25-30 minutes, then walk about 15-20 minutes to the castle.
Hours: Typically 9am-5pm (last entry earlier), open daily; paid admission.

Inuyama Castle, overlooking the Kiso River, is one of Japan's twelve castles with an original (non-reconstructed) keep, and among the very oldest, with parts dating to the 1440s-1600s. Its compact wooden interior, with steep original staircases, gives a more authentic feel than the many concrete reconstructions found elsewhere in Japan.

The surrounding castle town retains some traditional streetscape, and the nearby Meiji Mura and Little World theme parks make Inuyama a reasonable half-day or full-day base for a few different sights outside central Nagoya.

Inuyama Castle FAQs

Is Inuyama Castle an original structure?

Yes, it's one of only twelve Japanese castles with a surviving original (non-reconstructed) keep, with sections dating to the 1440s-1600s.

How far is it from Nagoya?

About 25-30 minutes by Meitetsu train, then a 15-20 minute walk from Inuyama Station.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, a paid admission.

How long does a visit take?

About 1-1.5 hours for the castle.

What else is nearby?

Meiji Mura and Little World theme parks are both in the Inuyama area, making it possible to combine sights.

Your travel graph

Ready to plan Inuyama Castle?Planning a trip soon? Add it to build an itinerary.

Reviews/Comments

No comments yet — be the first.