Inuyama Castle-Inuyama

Japan's oldest castle, Inuyama, stands out on the southern bank of the Kisogawa River - Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture

It is believed that Inuyama Castle was built when a fortress was relocated at the site from Kinoshita Castle by Oda Nobunaga’s uncle Oda Nobuyasu in 1537. This type of castle, located on a small hill along the Kisogawa River, is built for strength in back. Due to its location near the Nakasendo Road and the Kisokaido Road, the castle was an important hub during the Warring States period for transportation along the Kisogawa River, as well as a center of government and economy.

The castle was bestowed upon Naruse Masanari, chief retainer of the Owari Tokugawa Clan, in 1617. Nine generations of the Naruse family lived in the castle, through the end of the Edo Period. It was named a national treasure in 1935, and again in 1952 under revised regulations.
The Inuyama Festival, held in the springtime, has been preserved over the past 380-plus years. A chain of 13 floats with karakuri mechanical dolls winds through the historic castle town amongst the blossoming cherry trees. Take in this incredible festival that brings history to life!

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