Tsuruga Castle: Aizu's Red-Roofed Symbol

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Explore Tsuruga Castle in Aizuwakamatsu: a symbol of samurai history with unique red-tiled roofs and stunning park views.

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Tsuruga Castle

Tsuruga Castle, also known as Aizuwakamatsu Castle, is a reconstructed landmark in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. Originally built in 1384, it played a crucial role in the Boshin War and is now famous for its distinctive red-tiled roof and museum showcasing samurai history.

A brief summary to Tsuruga Castle

1-1 Otemachi, Aizuwakamatsu, Otemachi, Fukushima, 965-0873, JP
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Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

Visit in mid-April to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom around the castle.
Purchase a combination ticket to visit both the castle and the Rinkaku Teahouse for a discounted price.
Check the schedule for the Aizu Painted Candle Festival in winter to see the snow-covered castle illuminated by candles.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Aizuwakamatsu Station, take the Aizu Loop Bus (Haikara-san or Akabe) and get off at the Tsurugajo Kitaguchi bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes, and from the bus stop, it's a 5-minute walk to the castle entrance. The fare is ¥210 per ride, or ¥600 for a day pass.
Taxi

From Aizuwakamatsu Station, a taxi ride to Tsuruga Castle takes around 10 minutes and costs approximately ¥1500. Taxis are readily available at the station.
Walking

From Nishi-Wakamatsu Station, it is a 30-minute (2km) walk to Tsuruga Castle. From Aizuwakamatsu Station, it is a 34 minute (2.7km) walk to Tsuruga Castle.
Car

If driving, Tsuruga Castle is 15 minutes from the Aizuwakamatsu IC exit on the Ban-etsu Expressway. Paid parking is available on the castle grounds. Parking fees start at ¥300.

Discover more about Tsuruga Castle

Tsuruga Castle, a symbol of Aizu-Wakamatsu, boasts a rich history dating back to 1384 when it was first constructed by Ashina Naomori. Over the centuries, the castle changed hands and underwent several transformations, reflecting the turbulent feudal era of Japan. Tsuruga Castle is also referred to as Aizu Castle or Aizuwakamatsu Castle due to its location. The castle is most famous for its role in the Boshin War (1868-1869), where it served as the last stronghold for the Aizu clan, loyal to the Tokugawa shogunate, against the Meiji government forces. Despite enduring a month-long siege, the Aizu warriors were ultimately defeated, and the castle was demolished in 1874. In 1965, Tsuruga Castle was reconstructed, and in 2011, the roof tiles were restored to their original red color, making it the only castle in Japan with a red-tiled roof. The castle keep now houses a museum with exhibits on the history of the castle and samurai culture. Visitors can climb to the top floor for panoramic views of Aizuwakamatsu. Tsuruga Castle Park surrounds the castle, featuring well-maintained lawns and over 1,000 cherry trees, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in mid-April. Within the park, visitors can also find the Rinkaku Teahouse, where feudal lords once held tea ceremonies.