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Kakegawa Castle Ninomaru Palace: A Glimpse into Edo-Era Japan

Explore Kakegawa Castle's Ninomaru Palace: A rare, faithfully restored Edo-era residence offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.

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The Kakegawa Castle Ninomaru Palace, reconstructed in the late Edo period, is one of only four remaining castle palaces in Japan. Serving as the residence and administrative center for the ruling lord, it offers a fascinating glimpse into feudal governance and samurai life.

A brief summary to Kakegawa Castle Ninomaru Palace

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear thick socks, as shoes are not allowed inside the palace.
  • Purchase a combination ticket for access to both the castle tower and Ninomaru Palace.
  • Take advantage of JAF discounts on tickets if available.
  • Plan to spend about an hour exploring both the castle tower and Ninomaru Palace.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kakegawa Station, exit north and walk straight for about 10 minutes. You'll pass through the city center, heading towards the elevated grounds where Kakegawa Castle is situated. The Ninomaru Palace is located adjacent to the castle keep. There are no specific costs involved in accessing the palace on foot.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Kakegawa City Loop Bus from Kakegawa Station and disembark at the Kakegawa-jo bus stop. From there, it's a short walk to the castle grounds and the Ninomaru Palace. The loop bus costs around ¥200 per ride. Alternatively, a taxi from the station costs approximately ¥800-¥1000.

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Discover more about Kakegawa Castle Ninomaru Palace

Kakegawa Castle's Ninomaru Palace is a meticulously restored historical gem that transports visitors back to the Edo period. Rebuilt in 1861 after the devastating Ansei Tokai Earthquake of 1854, the palace stands as a testament to traditional Japanese architecture and craftsmanship. It is one of only a handful of castle palaces remaining in Japan, offering a unique opportunity to experience the world of feudal lords. The palace served as the official residence of the daimyō (feudal lord), a place for official ceremonies, and the administrative office for the clan. The palace is constructed in the shoin-zukuri style, characterized by tatami-mat floors, fusuma (paper sliding doors), and interconnected rooms. Visitors can explore the expansive rooms, including the Goshoin Upper Room, Next Room, and Third Room, which evoke the lives of the castle lords and the workings of feudal government. The hallways are also paved with tatami mats rather than boards. From the palace, you can see the splendid garden and Kakegawa Castle. Kakegawa Castle itself has a rich history, initially built in 1497 by Asahina Yasuhiro. It was strategically important, changing hands between powerful clans such as the Imagawa and Tokugawa. The castle keep was rebuilt in 1994 using traditional wooden construction techniques, a first for Japan. Today, visitors can also explore the castle tower, climb to the top for panoramic city views, and enjoy the Ninomaru Tea House for a traditional tea ceremony.

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