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Situated at the center of Honshu and a 5-hour drive from Kanto Plain, Inuyama City is a small, but fascinating castle town in Aichi Prefecture. You’ll find the Japan’s oldest castle standing high on a hill and long-stretching stone-paved streets filled with old wooden shops and homes while strolling around town.
My wife, daughter and I recently visited the picturesque town to enjoy the quaint, old-time atmosphere.
Standing majestically on the top of hill, Inuyama-jo is considered as the nation’s oldest existing wooden castle. Since its foundation in 1537, the castle has survived wars and disasters over the centuries. The castle was designated a national treasure in 1935.
Walk up along steep wooden ladders to the observatory platform on the top of four-story castle to enjoy breathtaking views.
After visiting the castle, we strolled around town. The stone-paved streets are packed with traditional clay-walled warehouses, an impressive bell tower, and several Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. While walking along the streets, we checked out many food and souvenir shops, cafes and other attractions.
Drop by the restaurant Kotobukiya for enjoy the local signature delicacy “Misonikomi Udon,” stewed udon noodles in miso broth and vegetables. The rich, complicated flavor of the miso-based broth and thick, chewy noodles will warm up and energize you.
We found the quaint town of Inuyama a great daytrip spot with many attractions in a picturesque setting. Make plans for your own visit!
Inuyama Castle
Location: 65-2 Kitakoken, Inuyama, Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture
Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Admission: adult 550 yen, elementary and middle schoolers: 110 yen
Tel: 0568-61-1711
Kotobukiya restaurant
Location: 11-1 Kitakoken, Inuyama, Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture
Hours: Thu – Tue, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Tel: 0568-62-0302
