What other travelers are saying about Wakayama Castle
I would highly recommend visiting this castle while in Wakayama. A great spot to visit, especially if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of tourists.
A small entry fee is needed to enter the castle. You will be handed a pamphlet and ticket (you can time stamp your ticket before exiting the castle - keep an eye out for it).
I enjoy learning history about places. It was interesting reading about the history of the emperors, their ruling eras, the weapons, armour etc. They do tour guides throughout the castle but personal preference, I went at my own pace. There are areas where photography isn't allowed.
The can view the city from the top of the castle. There is an area with an outdoor railing - be mindful while walking along it. The views are breathtaking.
The castle grounds is huge. The walk to the main grounds is fairly long, but I found it a great way to view the area and see what is located around it.
You can collect stamps around the castle grounds. You will see staff dressed as ninjas - the goshuin is a ninja too. I found so cool.
There is a bathroom located before entry in the whole castle, with small pop up restaurants. There is also toilets available before entering the castle - follow signs; be aware of the signs with no entering as they are for staff only.
Wakayama Castle is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM). Adult admission is 410 yen, while children under 18 enter free. The castle is closed from December 29-31 for New Year holidays.
From JR Wakayama Station, take bus route 0 or 25 to Koen-mae bus stop (10 minutes, 230 yen). Alternatively, it's a 20-minute walk from the station. From Nankai Wakayamashi Station, it's a 10-minute walk to the castle grounds.
The best time to see cherry blossoms at Wakayama Castle is early to mid-April when approximately 600 sakura trees bloom in the castle park. The annual Cherry Blossom Festival typically runs from late March to early May with night illuminations.
Wakayama Castle features a reconstructed main keep with museum exhibits about the Tokugawa family history, samurai artifacts, and castle architecture. The top floor offers panoramic views of Wakayama city and Wakayama Bay. The castle grounds include beautiful gardens and historical gates.
A complete visit to Wakayama Castle typically takes 2-3 hours including the castle keep interior, gardens, and walking the grounds. Allow extra time during cherry blossom season or if you plan to explore the nearby Wakayama Park and surrounding historical sites.
Wakayama castle is a must visit place if you are in Wakayama city. This castle is inside a park and you can enjoy the autumn leaves and night time illumination. There are also events held and we are fortunate enough to see the drone show.
Our purpose here is to see the autumn leaves and it is so beautiful. You can visit the lake and walk across the stone bridge too.
The castle is closed at night but the park remains open. The night time reflection of the bridge on the lake is beautiful.
Great city view! No need to book the tickets in advance (at least in winter, but it seems that there are more tourists in summer). Without the tickets you can not go onto the castle, but you still have access to the plateau and thus also a good view.
If your in Wakayama. Don't miss a chance to visit this castle. Un lucky though I miss autumn peak foliage. But still one of my favorites. You can also pay 410 to enter the castle
historical and cultural and commemorative place in Japan, you can view and go through so many history and story of old Japan inside and many local and authentic guidances that you can follow and learn a lot! Also the ticket is not pricy, you can enjoy and study and feel there very well!!
