Wakayama Castle: A Symbol of Resilience

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Explore Wakayama Castle: History, panoramic views, and serene gardens await in this iconic symbol of Wakayama City.

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Wakayama Castle

Wakayama Castle, originally built in 1585 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, stands as a proud symbol of Wakayama City. Reconstructed in 1958 after wartime destruction, the castle offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

A brief summary to Wakayama Castle

Ichibancho, ３, Wakayama, Ichibancho, Wakayama, 640-8146, JP
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Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

Visit during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) or autumn (late September to early November) for the most stunning views.
Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking involved in exploring the castle grounds.
Check out the Wakayama Castle Zoo, located within the castle grounds, for a free and family-friendly activity.
Take a break at the tea house in Nishinomaru-Teien Garden and enjoy green tea and traditional Japanese sweets.
Visit on a Saturday for free admission to the castle for children.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From JR Wakayama Station or Nankai Wakayama-shi Station, take a bus to the "Koen-mae" bus stop. The bus ride is approximately 5 minutes from JR Wakayama Station and 3 minutes from Nankai Wakayama-shi Station. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the castle entrance. A one-day bus pass on Wakayama Bus costs ¥1,000 for adults. Alternatively, consider the Wakayama Sightseeing Ticket from Nankai Railway for ¥2,080 (adults), which includes a round-trip train ticket and an all-day bus pass.
Walking

Wakayama Castle is approximately a 20-minute walk from JR Wakayama Station or a 10-minute walk from Nankai Wakayama-shi Station. From Nankai Wakayama-shi Station, walk east towards the castle, following the main road. From JR Wakayama Station, walk south-east. Follow signs for Wakayama Castle. No costs are associated with walking.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available from both JR Wakayama Station and Nankai Wakayama-shi Station. A taxi ride to Wakayama Castle from either station will typically cost between ¥800 and ¥1,200, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Wakayama Castle

Wakayama Castle, a prominent landmark in Wakayama City, boasts a history dating back to 1585 when Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered its construction. The castle played a crucial role as a base for the Kishu Tokugawa clan during the Edo period. After being destroyed during World War II, the castle was rebuilt in 1958, using modern materials like concrete, but retaining its original design.The castle keep houses a museum with exhibits of samurai armor, weaponry, and historical documents. From the top of the keep, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Wakayama City, the Kinokawa River, and even Awaji Island on a clear day. The castle grounds feature several gardens, including the Nishinomaru-Teien Garden, also known as Momijidani (Valley of Maple Leaves), which was established in the early Edo period and is known for its beautiful autumn foliage. The gardens also showcase cherry blossoms in spring.Other highlights include the Okaguchi Gate, one of the few original structures remaining, and the Ohashi Corridor, an unusual covered bridge. Within the castle grounds, visitors can also find a small zoo with a variety of animals. The castle is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational activities.