Access
It takes about 25 minutes from Meitetsu Nagoya Station to Inuyama Station (one-way fare was 570 yen at the time of our visit). The old castle town spreads out within about a 20-minute walk from Inuyama Station.
Official site: https://inuyama.gr.jp.e.jm.hp.transer.com/
A Lucky Castle That Survived Wars and Air Raids
Only five castles in Japan are designated as National Treasures: Inuyama Castle (also called Hakutei Castle), Matsumoto Castle, Himeji Castle, Hikone Castle and Matsue Castle. Inuyama Castle is said to have been built in 1537 by Oda Nobuyasu, the uncle of the famous warlord Oda Nobunaga. The view from the top floor of the keep is spectacular. It was also famous as the only privately owned castle in Japan until 2004, when ownership was transferred to a public foundation.
Cherry Blossoms at Inuyama Castle
The trees were almost in full bloom.
The Kiso River flowing below the castle is powerful and impressive.
Nearby you can also enjoy cormorant fishing on the Kiso River, Japan Monkey Park and Naritasan Temple.
