| Tour Type | Private tour |
| Flexible Itinerary | Customizable Itinerary |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Sightseeing type | Historic site tour |
Customer Guidelines:
This tour utilizes public transportation. Please be aware that seats are not reserved.
Please ensure you arrive promptly at the designated meeting time.
Please be aware that weekends, holidays, and event days may experience high levels of congestion.
The schedule may be subject to sudden changes or shorter visit durations due to reasons such as traffic congestion.
Refunds will not be provided if you fail to arrive at the meeting location on time (no show).
In the event of a natural disaster, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.
Please personally take responsibility for your valuables.
Note: These guidelines are provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Thank you for your cooperation.
Okazaki Castle is renowned as the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of Japan's most important historical figures who unified Japan. It served as a vital strategic stronghold during the Sengoku period. Visitors can explore the castle museum which details Ieyasu's life and the samurai era, offering insights into the warrior culture and political landscape of his time. The castle grounds also feature various monuments related to Ieyasu's legacy.
Nagoya Castle is famous for its majestic golden Shachi (mythical tiger-carp statues) adorning its main keep, symbolizing prosperity and protection. The castle also boasts a magnificent reconstructed Honmaru Palace, showcasing exquisite traditional Japanese architectural craftsmanship, detailed paintings, and sliding doors. Visitors can admire the grand scale of its fortifications and the historical reconstruction efforts that bring its past glory to life.
Inuyama Castle holds significant historical value as one of only twelve Japanese castles with an original keep surviving since the Edo period. Its construction dates back to 1537, offering a rare glimpse into medieval Japanese castle architecture. Visitors can climb to the top of its wooden keep for panoramic views, experiencing the same historic structure that has stood for centuries, and learn about the strategic importance of its location overlooking the Kiso River.
Okazaki's castle town, particularly around Okazaki Park, offers charming cultural experiences. Visitors can explore traditional townhouses converted into cafes and local shops, perfect for enjoying regional snacks or finding unique souvenirs. The area often features demonstrations of traditional crafts or local festivals, providing a deeper immersion into Japanese culture and history related to the samurai era.
Exploring Aichi's castle towns often involves using local trains and buses, which connect major cities like Nagoya to historical sites. For Okazaki Castle, visitors typically take the Meitetsu Nagoya Line to Higashi-Okazaki Station, followed by a short walk or bus ride to Okazaki Park. This allows for an immersive experience of local life and the surrounding town atmosphere between destinations.
An English-speaking guide enhances visits to historical sites like Okazaki Castle by providing detailed explanations of their history, architectural nuances, and cultural significance. They share engaging stories about figures like Tokugawa Ieyasu, samurai legends, and the daily life within the castle walls. Guides can also offer insights into local customs and help navigate the castle grounds, ensuring a richer and more informative experience.
Okazaki Park is home to several attractions in addition to Okazaki Castle. It features the Tokugawa Ieyasu and Mikawa Bushi Museum, offering deeper insights into samurai culture. Visitors can also find a traditional Japanese garden, a tea ceremony house, and various monuments related to local history. The park is a popular spot for relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying seasonal flora, especially during cherry blossom season.
These three castles offer distinct experiences. Okazaki Castle, being Tokugawa Ieyasu's birthplace, focuses heavily on his legacy and samurai history within its museum. Inuyama Castle stands out with its original wooden keep, allowing visitors to experience a truly authentic medieval structure. Nagoya Castle, reconstructed grandly, impresses with its golden Shachi and the opulent Honmaru Palace, showcasing post-Sengoku period splendor and grandeur.