What other travelers are saying about Inuyama Castle
Spectacular views, climbing to the top of the keep (Tenshu) is a thrilling experience. The balcony is quite low and narrow, but it offers an unrivalled 360-degree view of the Kiso River and the surrounding city. Take off your shoes to enter, and the steep wooden stairs make you feel like a samurai from centuries ago.
Steep Stairs: Be prepared for very steep and slippery wooden stairs inside the castle. I recommend wearing thick socks for comfort and safety.
Inuyama-jokamachi : After visiting the castle, walk down to the Castle Town (Jokamachi). It’s filled with traditional buildings, street food, and cute cafes.
Timing: If you visit during the cherry blossom season, the view of the river lined with pink flowers is absolutely breathtaking.
Take the Meitetsu Inuyama Line from Nagoya Station to either Inuyama-yuen Station or Inuyama Station. The train journey takes approximately 25 minutes. From Inuyama-yuen Station, the castle is a 15-minute walk, while from Inuyama Station it requires about 20 minutes on foot. The castle is located roughly 25 kilometers north of Nagoya city center.
Yes, visitors can enter the castle and climb to the top floor observation deck. The interior features steep, narrow wooden staircases that lead through multiple levels of the original structure. You can explore the authentic architectural features including exposed beams, traditional rooms, and defensive elements. The top floor provides panoramic views of the Kiso River and surrounding landscape, including the Japanese Alps on clear days.
Admission to Inuyama Castle costs ¥550 for adults. Reduced rates are available for children and students. The castle grounds also include restored gates, stone walls, and a small museum displaying historical artifacts, all accessible with the admission ticket.
Cherry blossom season is particularly popular, when approximately 400 cherry trees bloom along the Kiso River below the castle, typically in late March to early April. The castle offers beautiful views year-round, with each season providing different scenery. However, visitors should note that the interior features steep, narrow staircases that may be challenging for those with mobility limitations, regardless of when you visit.
Great view from the top and there were no lines around 10am. No shoes allowed inside so wear thick socks as the floors are cold. Stairs are steep but my 73 year old mother was fine.
Inuyama Castle is definitely worth visiting if you are around the area. Beautiful castle and worth it to buy the entrance fee. The view from the highest viewing point of the castle is fantastic. Do note the extremely steep stairs to get to the highest point of the castle but it’s worth every step. Plastic bag will be provided to put your shoes as shoes is not allowed in the castle. Check out the photos and videos for more info.
It’s an hour away from Nogaya. Closest station is Inuyamayuen Station and about 10-15 mins nice walk to the castle. Remember to visit the Showa Alley for some street food and snacks.
Recommended ☺️😊👍
Inuyama Castle is the oldest surviving tower in Japan, with a wooden structure. For its historical reasons and its view, it's worthy it a visit.
I went there during the New Year's holiday, so there was an 1h waiting queue to enter the Castle. It is possible to check the current waiting time on the official website.
The Castle's surrounding area has other touristic spots, street food, cafes and many souvenir shops to explore.
The snow‑covered trees embracing the old castle created the most breathtaking view of this entire trip. Despite their steep appearance, the stairs inside the castle were surprisingly easy to climb. And once I reached the top, the panoramic view of the city unfolding beneath me was nothing short of unforgettable.
