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Hamamatsu Castle

静岡県

3.9

Tourist Information of This Area

general.prefecture.

Sengoku's "career castle" that continued to shine at the center of history

Hamamatsu Castle was home to famous military commanders who helped shape the history of Edo, including the ruler of the land, Tokugawa Ieyasu. The episode where Ieyasu, who was defeated in the Battle of Mikatagahara, barely escaped to this Hamamatsu Castle is well-known. This castle is a must-visit for history buffs.

Features & How to Enjoy

Classic HistoryRainny day

Highlights

Point 1

2023 is a big year for the historical drama!

In 2023, "What Will You Do, Ieyasu?" starring Jun Matsumoto, which depicts the life of Tokugawa Ieyasu, is being broadcasted. Of course, Hamamatsu Castle, where Ieyasu served as lord for a long time, is attracting attention, and the "What Will You Do, Ieyasu? Hamamatsu Taiga Drama Museum" has also opened, creating a lot of excitement. We recommend learning about Ieyasu through the exhibits in Hamamatsu Castle and watching the weekly historical drama.

Point 2

The Revival of a Castle through the Power of Citizens

Hamamatsu Castle became abandoned and was demolished during the Meiji Restoration, leaving the castle tower without any buildings. In 1956, the Hamamatsu Castle Reconstruction Alliance was formed by volunteers from the citizens of Hamamatsu, and a fundraising campaign began. With a total of over 10 million yen raised, the current castle tower was reconstructed, reviving it as a symbol of Hamamatsu City in modern times.

Point 3

Don't Miss the Stone Walls

Hamamatsu Castle was built in the early Warring States period, and the stone walls were constructed using the "nomaseki" method. Nomaseki is a simple stone wall made by stacking natural stones, and while it may not look beautiful, it has excellent drainage and is a sturdy stone wall that can withstand wind and snow. The stone walls of Hamamatsu Castle, which have been built for over 400 years, still exist today, creating a romantic atmosphere of the Warring States period.

Point 4

Enjoy Tea at Shouintei

画像引用：浜松公園公式ホームページ

Near Hamamatsu Castle, there is Shouintei, a place loved by the citizens of Hamamatsu. At Shouintei, tea service is offered and you can participate for 400 yen (with tea sweets). Dress code is casual, so there's no need to worry about what to wear! Different schools belonging to the Hamamatsu Tea Ceremony Association take turns offering tea service, so those who are particular about the school may want to check the website for more information.

Point 5

One of Hamamatsu's Top Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots

Hamamatsu Castle is known as one of Hamamatsu's top cherry blossom viewing spots. Every year from late March to early April, around 360 cherry blossom trees envelop the castle, attracting many visitors for flower viewing. During the cherry blossom season, the castle is also illuminated from 6pm to 9pm, allowing you to enjoy the collaboration between Hamamatsu Castle and the full bloom of cherry blossoms. Additionally, the Sakura Festival is held during this time, making it even more enjoyable to celebrate the festival!

History

The Famous "Castle of Success" as the Residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu

Hamamatsu Castle is a famous castle where the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, who ruled the country, served as lord for a long time. It's also known as the castle where Ieyasu, who was defeated by the famous warlord Takeda Shingen in the Battle of Mikatagahara during the Warring States period, fled to. After Ieyasu left, many of those who served as lords of Hamamatsu Castle were promoted to important positions in the shogunate, earning it the nickname "Castle of Success". Although it was destroyed and abandoned after the Meiji Restoration, a reinforced concrete tower was rebuilt in 1958. In 2017, it was selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Castles.

Required time

Spend about an hour here!

It's recommended to set aside about an hour to visit Hamamatsu Castle. The castle interior has been turned into an exhibition hall where you can learn about the history of Hamamatsu Castle from the time before Tokugawa Ieyasu became lord of the castle, through the Battle of Mikatagahara, and up to the time after Ieyasu left the castle. As the castle isn't particularly large, you can take a leisurely stroll around the castle and even take a commemorative photo with the statue of Ieyasu, which is considered a symbol of Hamamatsu Castle, or enjoy the view of Hamamatsu city from the top of the castle tower, all within an hour!

Fee

Admission to Hamamatsu Castle is Only for Adults!

Hamamatsu Castle is located within Hamamatsu Castle Park. While entry to the park is free, admission fees are required to enter Hamamatsu Castle. The fee for adults (high school students and above) is 200 yen, while children in junior high school and below, and those aged 70 and above can enter for free. Members of the "Hamamatsu Tourism Volunteer Guide Association" will guide you through Hamamatsu Castle. Reservations are required, but the guide fee is free, so we recommend making a reservation in advance if you're interested! (Currently, the guides are temporarily suspended. Please check the official website for details.)

Basic Information

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