Nestled in the heart of Nagoya, one of Japan’s largest and most vibrant cities, Nagoya Castle stands as a stunning testament to the country’s feudal past and the architectural grandeur of the Edo period. A visit to Nagoya Castle is not only a journey through history but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Aichi Prefecture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or someone simply looking to experience Japan’s traditional beauty, Nagoya Castle offers something for everyone.
The History of Nagoya Castle
The origin of Nagoya Castle is believed to trace back to Yanagi-no-maru, a castle built by Imagawa Ujichika in the early 16th century as part of his campaign in Owari. This castle is thought to have been located in what would later become Nagoya Castle’s Ninomaru area.
In 1538, Oda Nobuhide took control of the castle from Imagawa Ujitoyo and renamed it Nagoya Castle. Nobuhide resided there for a time, but around 1542, he moved to Furuwatari Castle. Nagoya Castle then became the residence of his son, Oda Nobunaga. It was once believed that Nobunaga was born in Nagoya Castle after it was seized in 1532, but recent research suggests he was actually born in Tosho Castle. In 1555, Nobunaga moved his base to Kiyosu Castle, and Nagoya Castle was later entrusted to his uncle, Oda Nobumitsu. However, Nobumitsu was killed by his retainers, and the castle was defended by his loyal retainer, Hayashi Hidetada, until it was eventually abandoned.
The Edo Period
Kiyosu Castle had long served as the center of Owari, but following the political changes after the Battle of Sekigahara and concerns over Kiyosu’s vulnerability to flooding, Tokugawa Ieyasu decided in 1609 to build a new castle in Nagoya for his ninth son, Yoshinao, as the residence of the Owari Domain. The move to Nagoya was also seen as a strategic decision for defensive purposes, utilizing the Kiso and Shonai rivers as natural outer moats. Around the same time, flood control measures were undertaken, including the construction of the Goi-tei embankment on the Kiso River and the Goi-ka-tei embankment on the Shonai River. In February of 1610, construction of the new castle began as part of a national construction program led by the assistant mayors of the western daimyo. Located strategically between Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo), Nagoya became an important hub for politics, trade, and military strategy. The castle was designed to serve both as a military fortress and as a symbol of the Tokugawa family’s power, boasting a massive structure complete with towering walls, moats, and elaborate gates.
Maintenance was ongoing at Nagoya Castle, so it was not possible to step inside. However, we were able to see works on the stone walls.
Different Stages of Construction
The construction of Nagoya Castle was overseen by five magistrates, including Takigawa Tadayasu, Sakuma Masazane, and Maki Nagakatsu. Feudal lords contributed to the building of the castle’s stone walls, with Kato Kiyomasa supervising the most complex parts, including the castle tower base. A total of 5.58 million workers participated in the project, and by the end of August, the castle tower’s foundation was complete. The stone walls were finished by the end of the year.
Construction continued under the supervision of Okubo Nagayasu and Kobori Masakazu, with Nakai Masakiyo acting as chief carpenter. Masakiyo, who was also working on the Imperial Palace and the Great Buddha Hall of Hokoji Temple, had his assistants oversee the site. Full-scale construction began in June 1612, but delays in procuring materials for the castle tower caused concerns. With the help of carpenters from the Imperial Palace, the tower was completed by the end of the year, and the Honmaru Palace was finished in February 1615.
In April 1615, after the Winter Siege of Osaka, Tokugawa Ieyasu attended the wedding of Yoshinao and Asano Yukinaga’s daughter, Haruhime, but soon received news of an army raised by the Toyotomi faction, leading him to march to Osaka and destroy the Toyotomi clan.
The relocation from Kiyosu to Nagoya took place between 1612 and 1616, when Tokugawa Yoshinao moved to Nagoya Castle. Over 50,000 residents, along with three shrines and 110 temples, were relocated in this extensive effort, establishing the castle town around Nagoya Castle.
Honmaru Palace was completed in 1615, and Ninomaru Palace was finished in 1617. Yoshinao moved to Ninomaru Palace in 1620, and Honmaru Palace became the residence of the Shogun during visits to Kyoto. Shogun, including Tokugawa Hidetada and Tokugawa Iemitsu, visited Nagoya Castle during their journeys to Kyoto, with Iemitsu overseeing extensive renovations of Honmaru Palace in 1634. The last visit by a Shogun occurred in 1865, when Tokugawa Iemochi stayed briefly on his way to Kyoto.
Walking in the gardens surrounding the castle, you’ll find the old teahouses immerse in the peacefulness.
The Destruction and Reconstruction
Like many historical buildings in Japan, Nagoya Castle suffered significant damage during World War II. In 1945, a devastating air raid struck the city, and the castle’s main keep was destroyed. However, the spirit of Nagoya Castle did not fade with the destruction. After the war, Nagoya City’s urban planning incorporated the castle ruins, excluding the Sannomaru area, as well as the low-lying marshland to the northeast, which was transformed into Meijo Park. Within the park, three turrets and three gates that survived the war, along with part of the Ninomaru Garden, have been preserved. Some of the moats were altered, such as being filled in, but the earthworks, moats, and gate foundations, including those in Sannomaru, have been relatively well maintained.
The castle tower was rebuilt in 1959 thanks to contributions from the local shopping district and nationwide donations, and along with the restored golden shachihoko, it has become a symbol of Nagoya City. While there were plans to restore the Honmaru Palace, these were eventually canceled due to a lack of funds.ucted castle and experience both its historical elements and modern enhancements. While the exterior is largely faithful to the original, the interior features museum exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about the castle’s history, its significance in Japanese feudal warfare, and the Tokugawa shogunate’s reign.
Current Maintenance Efforts
A comprehensive maintenance plan is currently in place for Nagoya Castle, aiming to preserve and enhance its value as a historic site. As of 2023, the plan includes several restoration and preservation projects. These include the wooden restoration of the castle tower, the restoration of the northeast corner tower, and the restoration of various gates such as the Honmaru Omote Ichinomon Gate, Honmaru Higashi Ichinomon Gate, Honmaru Higashi Ninomon Gate, and Ninomaru Gate. Additionally, the restoration of the Ninomaru Ote Ninomon Walkway Tower, horse-shed, and Honmaru Tamon Tower is planned. The Ninomaru Garden will also be preserved and maintained, while restoration work will be done on the Ninomaru Palace and Mukaiyashiki. Other planned projects include restoring the Otemon Gate, Higashi Gate, Ume-mikado Gate, and Ninomaru Towers, as well as the repair of the stone walls. Additionally, exhibition and storage facilities will be maintained, and the Misono-mikado Gate, Shimizu-mikado Gate, and Higashi-mikado Gate will undergo restoration.
You can find shachihoko related merchandise around the shops in Nagoya Castle.
The Golden Shachihoko: Symbol of Nagoya Castle
One of the most iconic features of Nagoya Castle is the shachihoko, the mythical golden shachihoko that adorn the roof of the main keep. These shachi, which are a common symbol of Japanese castles, are said to have the ability to ward off fires and protect the structure. The shachihoko at Nagoya Castle are particularly famous due to their gleaming gold plating, which adds to the castle’s majestic appearance.
Legend has it that the shachihoko also represent the dual forces of water and fire, symbolizing the balance of nature and the harmony needed for protection. The shimmering golden shachi are a must-see for any visitor to Nagoya Castle and are often photographed against the backdrop of the city skyline.
The Castle Grounds and Surroundings
Nagoya Castle is not only a historical monument but also a tranquil park where visitors can relax and enjoy nature. The castle grounds cover a large area, including beautifully landscaped gardens, ponds, and walking paths. In spring, the cherry blossoms around the castle create a spectacular sight, attracting many visitors for hanami. The autumn season is equally stunning, with vibrant red and orange leaves filling the castle grounds, creating a picturesque contrast with the traditional architecture.
Adjacent to the castle is the Nagoya Castle Hommaru Palace, an ornate structure that was originally built for the Tokugawa family. Although it was also destroyed during the war, the palace has been meticulously reconstructed and is now open to the public. Inside, you can explore the lavishly decorated rooms, complete with intricate sliding doors, tatami mats, and traditional furnishings that reflect the opulence of the Tokugawa era.
Access
Nagoya Castle is easily accessible from Nagoya Station, either by a short train ride or a 15-20 minute walk. The castle is open year-round, though the best times to visit are during the cherry blossom season in spring and the colorful autumn months when the grounds are at their most scenic.
Admission fees are affordable, and there are often special events and exhibitions that highlight different aspects of the castle’s history and culture. Guided tours are available for those who want a deeper understanding of the castle’s significance, but visitors can also explore the site on their own at their own pace.
Nagoya Castle is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Japan’s rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning architecture. The castle’s impressive design, fascinating history, and scenic surroundings make it an unforgettable part of any visit to Nagoya. Whether you’re admiring the golden dolphins, learning about the legacy of the Tokugawa family, or simply enjoying the peaceful gardens, Nagoya Castle offers a deep connection to Japan’s past and present. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this iconic landmark on your next trip to Japan.
