The first time I visited Wakayama Castle (和歌山城) was during my solo backpacking adventure to Wakayama on the eighth day of my 27-day stay in Japan a decade ago. I will never forget the time when I walked a good 2 kilometers (probably) from Wakayama Station to the castle complex. I finally was able to revisit it with my daughter and my Japanese friends last January 7th, 2023. This was during my 432nd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. My wife wasn’t able to join us to explore the castle grounds as she was pregnant at that time.
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| Wakayama Castle Revisited 2023 |
For those who weren’t able to read my previous article about Wakayama Castle here’s a summary of my article:
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| Wakayama Castle - Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture |
Wakayama Castle (和歌山城) stands as a proud symbol of the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Situated at 3 Ichibancho, this remarkable fortress is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region.
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| Wakayama Castle grounds map |
The story of Wakayama Castle begins in 1585 when Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a powerful daimyo, ordered his younger brother Hidenaga to construct a castle on Mt. Okayama, now known as Mt. Torafuso. Once completed, Hidenaga entrusted the castle to Kuwayama Shigeharu. The castle's significance grew in 1619 when Tokugawa Ieyasu's tenth son, Yorinobu, became its lord. From then until the Meiji Restoration, it served as a residence for various Tokugawa lords, cementing its status in Japanese history.
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| Shin-Urazaka Slope (和歌山城 新裏坂) |
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| Ninomon-yagura Turret (和歌山城 二の門櫓) |
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| Ninomon / Kusumon (二ノ門/楠門） |
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| Wakayama Castle Inui-yagura Turret (和歌山城 乾櫓) |
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| A Wakayama Castle-themed vending machine |
Wakayama Castle facade
Wakayama Castle is a stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture. It comprises a series of interconnected buildings that surround a central courtyard. The centerpiece is a majestic three-tiered main tower connected to various structures, including the Tenshunino-man (Camphor Wood Gate), the cookery, a smaller tower, and a watchtower. Each element of the castle showcases meticulous craftsmanship and design.
Displays Inside Wakayama Castle*
* I posted only a handful of photos of the exhibits and I purposely didn't label them so that you would only get a glimpse of what Wakayama Castle has to offer. Please visit it and enjoy it with your own eyes. Throughout its history, Wakayama Castle has faced numerous challenges. In 1846, a lightning strike caused a fire that destroyed the castle tower. It was swiftly rebuilt in 1850, only to be devastated again during the aerial bombings of World War II.
Wakayama Castle Observation Deck
The view from the Observation Deck of Wakayama Castle
Undeterred, the people of Wakayama reconstructed the castle in 1958, utilizing modern engineering techniques to restore its original appearance faithfully. Today, Wakayama Castle is not only a beautiful landmark but also a testament to resilience and perseverance.
Team Nicerio visits Wakayama Castle
Recognized as a government-designated Historical Site, Wakayama Castle invites visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of Japan's feudal era. As you wander through its halls and courtyards, you can almost hear the echoes of history whispering tales of samurai, lords, and the indomitable spirit of the people who called this castle home.
Wakayama Castle Admission Fee:
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| Wakayama Castle Admission Fee |
You need to pay 410 yen per person. Students and senior citizens get a discounted entrance fee of 200 yen.
Wakayama Castle Opening Hours:
Wakayama Castle is open from 9 AM to 5:30 PM.
Why visit Wakayama Castle?
Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a traveler seeking to immerse yourself in Japan's cultural treasures, Wakayama Castle promises a captivating journey through centuries of history. Make sure to include this iconic site in your travel itinerary and discover the enduring legacy of Wakayama City.
Getting to Wakayama Castle:
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| Picture from http://www.wakayamakanko.com/ |
From Kansai Airport, ride the JR line (Rapid service) going to Wakayama Station, you would have to transfer from Hineno Station though. It should take about 35-40 minutes. Another way to reach the castle from the airport is by bus which would bring you to Wakayama Downtown.
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