Inuyama Castle: One of Japan's Oldest Feudal Castles

History

In 1537, Inuyama Castle was built by Oda Nobuyasu, the uncle of famed feudal lord Oda Nobunaga. The castle located on a hill and was surrounded by the Kiso River, making it a difficult target for enemies and intruders.

Kiso River and Inuyama Castle

Between 1547 and the late 1800s, the castle went under the hands of many different feudal lords, until becoming the property of Aichi prefecture in 1871.

Inuyama Castle in Modern Japan

Although the castle was under the prefectural government’s control after 1871, the previous owners of the castle were still predominantly responsible for managing it. After 2004, Inuyama Castle was officially handed over to a public foundation supporting the castle.

Sights to See

Inuyama-jo Boat Ride – 犬山城遊覧船

During April and May, you can ride a boat down the Kiso River and enjoy the view of Inuyama Castle from below. The view of the castle during this season is especially amazing, since the cherry blossoms by the river are in full bloom.

Inuyama-jo Boat Ride

Osugi-sama Cedar Tree – 大杉様

Just to the right of the castle keep, you can find a large tree trunk protected by a wooden structure. The tree is said to be about 650 years old, and has existed there even before the castle was built. Although it fell after being hit by lightning in 1965, the trunk remains and is still loved by locals today.

Sanko-inari Shrine – 三光稲荷神社

Sanko-inari Shrine
Sanko-inari Shrine sits at the bottom of Inuyama Castle. It is said to be built around the late 1500s, although the exact date is unclear. The shrine is said to bring luck in matchmaking, and the ema (wooden wishing plaques) are pink and heart shaped to make your love wishes come true.

Events

Inuyama Festival – 犬山祭 (Apr.)

The Inuyama Festival is held annually on the first Saturday and Sunday of April. It began in 1635 and is designated as an important cultural property of Japan. Its main spectacle are the many festival cars (山車; dashi) carried out during the evening. This festival is both fun and an aesthetic gem.

Inuyama Festival

Kiso River Long Run Fireworks – 木曽川ロングラン花火 (Aug.)

This weeklong fireworks festival takes place on the first nine days of August. During the festivities, Inuyama Castle is lit up for an extra exquisite night.

Kiso River Long Run Fireworks

Inuyama Castle×Nagoya Railways

Inuyama Castle and Nagoya Railways

From a bit further away, you can catch a view of Inuyama Castle and the iconic Nagoya Railways trains. The trains and the Inuyama Castle provide a very Aichi scenery.

Nearby Destinations

The Little World Museum of Man – 野外民族博物館リトルワールド

At the Little World Museum of Man, you can experience a myriad of cultures in one day. By trying on ethnic dresses, trying worldwide cuisines and more, you can dig deep into the many cultures of the world. The seasonal events held here, such as the World Desserts Fair and the Meat Fest, are always original and exciting.

Japan Monkey Centre - 日本モンキーセンター

The Japan Monkey Centre is home to approximately 60 types of 900 primate species. You can find monkeys from various regions, such as Madagascar, Asia and South America. The facility specializes in research, and has six researches in the park to care for the monkeys. Japan Monkey Centre also aims to contribute to environmental awareness and sustainability.

The Museum Meiji-Mura - 博物館明治村

The Museum Meiji-Mura specializes in conserving and showing the Meiji era culture (1868 – 1912). Within the premise are 11 important cultural properties from the Meiji Era. In the museum, you can try on dresses and hakamas from the Meiji period, and try dishes from the era as well. This is a fascinating place to visit for those interested in the beginnings of modern Japan.