TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hamamatsu Castle, located in Naka Ward, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a historic site known for being the base of Tokugawa Ieyasu during his younger years during the Sengoku period. It served as one of the important bases throughout the Edo period. The current castle tower was rebuilt in 1958 using reinforced concrete, and the castle interior has been maintained as a museum primarily displaying historical documents. Nicknamed "Shusejo" (Castle of Success), the castle displays historical documents and armor related to Ieyasu, as well as panels related to the castle, and offers a panoramic view of Hamamatsu city and the distant mountains from the top floor of the castle tower. The castle ruins have been developed as Hamamatsu Castle Park, and are popular as a spot to view cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
Highlights
- Castle tower (museum): The museum exhibits materials related to Tokugawa Ieyasu, armor, ancient documents, etc. The view from the observation room on the top floor is not to be missed.
- Statue of Tokugawa Ieyasu: The bronze statue of Ieyasu standing in front of the castle is a popular photo spot.
- The atmosphere of stone walls, moats, and castle ruins: A stroll through the castle ruins park gives you a sense of the structure of the past. The seasonal plantings (cherry blossoms and maples) are beautiful.
- Historical panels and interactive exhibits: There are ample explanations to help you learn about the battles of the Sengoku period and the history of Hamamatsu. There are also exhibits for children.
- event: Cherry blossom festivals and local history events are sometimes held here, and there are also special exhibitions and events at certain times of the year.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Tokaido Main Line/Tokaido Shinkansen "Hamamatsu Station"
- Directions from the station: Walking: Approximately 20-30 minutes (1.5-2km). Bus: Take a city bus from Hamamatsu Station Bus Terminal bound for Hamamatsu Castle for approximately 10 minutes, then walk for a few minutes. Taxi: Approximately 8-12 minutes.
- car: Take the Chuo Expressway and Tomei Expressway from Hamamatsu IC to the city center. There is a paid parking lot around the castle (the number of spaces is limited, so if it is full, consider using a parking lot around the station).
- remarks: Hamamatsu Station is a Shinkansen stop, so it is easily accessible from outside Shizuoka Prefecture. Please check the bus routes, departure and arrival times, and parking locations in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Tour of the castle tower + viewing of exhibits: 60-90 minutes
- A leisurely plan including a stroll around the park and taking photos: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Combined with nearby museums and walks: half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments: Hamamatsu is famous as a city of musical instruments, and there is a museum within walking distance of the castle that displays musical instruments from Japan and abroad.
- Around Hamamatsu Station (Act Tower, etc.): It is home to shopping, observation facilities, and restaurants. It is easily accessible and a convenient base for sightseeing.
- Nakatajima Sand Dunes: This is a famous natural spot in Hamamatsu. You can travel by car or bus (travel time depends on the means of transportation) and enjoy scenic walks and seasonal events.
- Lake Hamana area: It is easily accessible by car and offers eel dishes and sightseeing along the lake.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The number of visitors increases during cherry blossom season (usually late March to early April), long holidays, and weekends. When it is crowded, you may have to wait in the exhibition rooms and observation deck.
- Manners inside the building: Some exhibits may prohibit photography, so please follow the signs and avoid touching the exhibits.
- Clothing and footwear: There are stairs and steps inside the castle tower, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Outside, there are slopes and cobblestones, which can be slippery on rainy days.
- Pets: You can walk your pet in the park, but please observe proper etiquette, such as keeping them on a leash and cleaning up their droppings. As a general rule, pets are not allowed inside most buildings.
- Climate measures: Hamamatsu can get hot in the summer, so be sure to take precautions against heatstroke by drinking water, wearing a hat, and wearing sunscreen. In winter, the wind can be strong and cold.
- Check for the latest information: Opening times, closing days, admission fees, and special exhibitions are subject to change, so we recommend checking official information before visiting.
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