Kofu Castle (Maizuru Castle) Overview (History, Features, and Attractions)
Kofu Castle (also known as Maizuru Castle) is a castle ruin located in the center of Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, and is currently maintained as Maizuru Castle Park. Following on from the former castle (Tsugane/Tsutsujigasakikan), which was the center of Kai Province during the Sengoku period, it was developed into a castle during the Edo period and functioned as the base of the feudal domain's administration. The main castle tower (main tower) no longer exists, but the stone walls and moats of the Honmaru and Ninomaru, as well as the remains of the castle gate, remain, and the castle is characterized by its magnificent moat structure and high stone walls.
Although it is located in the city, it has a relatively large green space and historical remains, making it a popular spot for locals to take historical walks and enjoy cherry blossom viewing. Another attractive feature is that on clear days you can enjoy views of the Kofu Basin and the surrounding mountains (and even Mount Fuji under certain conditions).
Highlights
- Stone walls and moats: The magnificent stone walls and dry moats constructed during the Edo period remain, allowing you to get a feel for the castle structure.
- Honmaru and Ninomaru ruins: You can stroll through the central part of the castle and imagine what it was like back then.
- Maizuru Castle Park scenery: With beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in autumn, it is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing and photography.
- Observation spot: From near the Honmaru, you can see Kofu city, the Kofu Basin, and if conditions are good, Mount Fuji and the surrounding mountains.
- Access to nearby historical sites and museums: There are spots and museums related to the Takeda clan around the castle ruins, where you can also dig deeper into history.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Chuo Main Line/Minobu Line Kofu Station, about 10-15 minutes walk (from the south exit towards the castle ruins).
- Bus/Route: Local buses are available from Kofu Station. Please check the schedule for the day for routes and times.
- By car: As the area is in the center of Kofu city, there are paid parking lots in the surrounding area, but they can get crowded on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. We recommend using public transportation.
- Taxi: Travel time from Kofu Station is approximately 10 minutes (depending on traffic conditions).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 30 minutes to 1 hour (to see the main castle and main attractions)
- In-depth visit: 1-2 hours (including walking around the park, taking photos, and briefly visiting nearby historical sites)
- If you include sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (including visiting Takeda Shrine and museums)
Nearby spots
- Takeda Shrine (a shrine associated with Takeda Shingen) - accessible by car or bus. A representative historical site in Kofu.
- Museums and archives in Kofu City - There are many facilities where you can see exhibits related to the history of Kai and the Takeda clan.
- Around Kofu Station (restaurants, souvenir shops) - Convenient for sightseeing and dining.
- Shosenkyo Gorge and hot springs - mountain and nature spots that can be reached by car from Kofu (travel times vary depending on location).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The park is crowded during the cherry blossom season in spring, consecutive holidays, and the autumn tourist season. Parking lots tend to fill up during these busy times, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Footing: There are stone steps, sloped paths, and areas where cobblestones remain, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. There are some areas that are difficult for strollers and wheelchairs to access.
- Manners: Please observe basic manners such as taking your trash home or to a designated area, visiting quietly, and not touching plants or ruins.
- Photography/Drones: Drone flying is generally prohibited or restricted. Please follow photography rules and restricted areas.
- Weather precautions: Take precautions against the sun and heat in summer and the cold in winter. There may be particularly strong winds at the observation points.
Note: Historical sites are often turned into parks that can be explored for free, but nearby museums and special exhibitions may require admission fees. Please check the official websites of Kofu City and facilities in advance for the latest opening hours and event information.
