* Image is for illustrative purposes only.Inuyama Castle
犬山城
Inuyama Castle is a historic castle in Chūbu dating from the Built in 1537 (Tenbun 6), whose lord was Naruse Masanari / Naruse clan.
Overview
Inuyama Castle, a National Treasure perched above the Kiso River, is one of the oldest surviving castle towers in Japan. Built in 1537 by Oda Nobuyasu, uncle of Oda Nobunaga, it served as a crucial border fortress between Owari and Mino provinces, witnessing numerous battles during the Sengoku era. During the Battle of Komaki and Nagakute, Toyotomi Hideyoshi established himself here to face Tokugawa Ieyasu. The Naruse clan governed the castle during the Edo period, and until 2004 it was the only privately-owned castle in Japan. The view from the top floor, spanning the Kiso River and the Nōbi Plain, inspired the poetic name 'Hakuteijō' (White Emperor Castle).
Connection to Swords
The Owari and Mino region surrounding Inuyama Castle was a major sword production area. Mino-den is counted among the Five Traditions (Gokaden) of Japanese swordmaking, with Seki (present-day Seki City) as its center. Owari Province was the domain of the Owari Tokugawa, the foremost of the three Tokugawa branch families, known for their deep appreciation of swords. The Sengoku era, when Inuyama Castle was repeatedly fought over, was precisely when demand for practical Mino swords peaked. The castle town also housed craftsmen involved in sword-related trades. Visiting alongside the Tokugawa Art Museum in Nagoya deepens understanding of Owari's sword culture.
Highlights
- National Treasure tower (among the oldest surviving)
- Stunning view of the Kiso River from the top floor
- Historic castle town streets
- Haritsuna Shrine
- Inuyama Festival (spring and autumn)
* Opening hours and admission fees are subject to change. Please check the official website before visiting.