Sumpu Castle (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Head to the majestic Sumpu Castle park in Shizuoka City’s center to trace the footsteps of a historical feudal lord!

The 18‑time Emmy Award winning FX drama “Shogun” features Tokugawa Ieyasu (portrayed by Japanese actor Hiroyuki Sanada), the first Edo shogun, who lived at this castle. Tokugawa passed the Shogunate onto his son in the early 1600s and spent his final years at Sumpu until his death in 1616.

As you stroll the historical site you can follow in the footsteps of the great samurai leader who laid the foundations of Edo, which is now modern-day Tokyo. When my wife and I visited the 440-year-old castle site, we were actually overwhelmed by the massive stone walls and traditional towers and bridges!

In 1896, the castle buildings were demolished and the inner moat was also piled up with soils to give way to an Imperial army garrison.

In the 1880-90s, some of the castle buildings were reconstructed using traditional techniques. During our stroll, we were able to appreciate the well-restored wooden bridges and watch towers which gave us a glimpse into the castle’s majestic past.

(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Sumpu Castle (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Sumpu Castle (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

If you have time, head to the Momijiyama Garden where you can enjoy tea and wagashi sweets in an elegant teahouse overlooking its beautiful traditional garden.

You can also take a 40‑minute cruise on the “Aoibune,” guided sightseeing boat tours of the moats. If you’re a fan of the shogun, this is the destination you won’t want to miss!

Sumpu Castle Park