Sunpu Castle Park (Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Sunpu Castle is a castle ruin located in the center of Suruga Province, with a history dating back to the Sengoku period, and is particularly known for being the base that Tokugawa Ieyasu used as his base after his retirement. Many of the buildings have been lost since the Meiji period, but the remains of the stone walls and moats remain in good condition, and in recent years, restoration and maintenance of the Tatsumi Turret and Higashi-Omon Gate have progressed, making it a popular park for local residents and tourists alike. The wide green space blends with the historical landscape, and its charm lies in the fact that you can enjoy its changing seasonal appearance.

Highlights

• Stone walls and moat: The well-preserved stonework and deep moat, which give a sense of the castle's scale, are popular photo spots.
• Restored buildings (Tatsumi Tower, Higashi-Omon Gate, etc.): You can view the exteriors of the towers and gates, which convey the atmosphere of the past (mainly exterior viewing; whether the interiors are open to the public varies depending on the season).
• Walking paths around Ninomaru and Sannomaru: Wide lawns and trees are maintained, making it ideal for walks and picnics.
• Cherry blossoms and autumn leaves: The rows of cherry blossom trees in spring and the autumn leaves in autumn are beautiful, and the area is especially lively during cherry blossom viewing season and autumn leaf season.
• Historical site information panels and exhibits: There are information panels and exhibits that introduce the history of the castle and the results of excavations.
• Photo spots: Popular spots are the combination of stone walls and the water surface (moat) and the restored tower in the background.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: About 15-20 minutes on foot from Shizuoka Station on the JR Tokaido Main Line (the north exit or the Aoi Ward exit is convenient).
• Nearby station: About a 5-10 minute walk from Shizuoka Railway's Shin-Shizuoka Station. Located in the city center, it is easily accessible by bus or taxi.
• By car: There are several paid parking lots around the park. However, they may be full on weekends and during events, so we recommend using public transportation.
• Bus: Shizuoka City circular buses and local buses may stop here. Please check the latest route information at tourist information centers or stations.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Light stroll: 30 minutes to 1 hour (to see the main sights)
• Thorough visit: 1.5 to 3 hours (including the area around the tower, exhibits, photography, and picnic)
• If visiting for cherry blossom viewing or other events: Half a day to full day (stay time will be longer during cherry blossom viewing season and other events)

Nearby spots

• Shizuoka Sengen Shrine: This historic shrine is within walking distance of the castle. You can enjoy the vermilion-lacquered main building and a stroll around the grounds.
• Shizuoka City Museum of Art and Shizuoka Prefectural Museum of Art: Facilities where you can enjoy art appreciation and special exhibitions (accessible by bus or on foot).
• Aoba Symbol Road Shopping District: A downtown area with many restaurants and souvenir shops. You can try local delicacies (such as Shizuoka oden).
• Nihon-daira (about 20-30 minutes by car): A tourist spot known for its views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay. (If you go further, you can find other scenic spots.)

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: It gets very crowded during the cherry blossom season, Golden Week, and the autumn tourist season. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting on weekdays or early in the morning.
• Manners: Eating, drinking, and holding parties on the lawn is generally permitted, but be sure to take your trash with you or dispose of it in designated areas. Fires and barbecues may be prohibited, so be sure to check the rules.
• Pets: You can walk your dog, but please keep it on a leash and clean up after yourself. There may be restricted areas.
• Smoking: Smoking is prohibited within the park or smoking areas may be restricted. Please follow signs.
• Weather and clothing: In summer, it is hot and humid, so you will need to stay hydrated and wear a hat. In winter, the wind can be cold, so dress warmly. In rainy weather, the ground can be slippery in some places.
• Facility Information: The interior of the restored buildings, exhibition schedules, and opening hours may change depending on the season and events, so please check the official information from Shizuoka City and the park before visiting.

Sunpu Castle Park is a place of relaxation for local residents where you can feel close to history. It's a great place to stroll, take photos, and enjoy the seasonal flowers, so be sure to stop by at the beginning or middle of your Shizuoka sightseeing trip.