Guida
Tsuruga Castle is a historic fortification located in Ote-machi, Aizu Wakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture. Commonly known as Aizu Wakamatsu Castle, it is a hill castle with a complex structure consisting of the Honmaru (inner circle), Nishidemaru, Kitademaru, Ninomaru, and Sannomaru. The castle is a designated national historic site, and the keep features a modern reconstruction with a striking red-tiled roof. The interior of the keep serves as the Wakamatsu Castle Museum, where visitors can explore various historical artifacts and local heritage.
The origins of the castle date back to 1384, when it was established as a residence by Ashina Naomori, the 7th head of the Ashina clan. Originally known as Kurokawa Castle (or Odakaki Castle), it served as a strategic base for the Ashina clan during the Sengoku period. Later, under the rule of Date Masamune and eventually the Aizu clan, it developed into a significant political center. The Aizu clan and the Tokugawa Shogunate shared close ties, and the site became a major battlefield during the Boshin War at the end of the Edo period. Today, the area is preserved as Tsuruga Castle Park, a testament to the region's rich history.
The most iconic feature of Tsuruga Castle is its beautiful keep adorned with red roof tiles. The Honmaru area includes various structures such as the Ikoi-yagura, Tsukimi-yagura, and Chatsu-yagura towers, as well as the Iron Gate and Rear Gate. Visitors can observe the intricate layout of the castle by exploring the Ninomaru and Sannomaru enclosures. Inside the keep, the museum offers deep insights into local history. The surrounding moats, such as the Otemae Nishi-hori and Hiyotan-bori, are also essential elements for understanding the defensive architecture of the era.
Tsuruga Castle Park was selected as one of the "100 Famous Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan," making spring a magical time to visit when the trees are in full bloom. The castle offers different scenic charms throughout the seasons. The museum and park are open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Visiting during daylight hours is highly recommended to fully appreciate the architectural details of the keep and the surrounding moats. Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for sightseeing.
In addition to exploring the castle grounds, visitors can enjoy walking through the well-maintained park areas. A rental cycle system is available in Aizu Wakamatsu, and you can use the Tsuruga Castle Station to explore the surrounding area (please note that bicycles must be returned by 4:00 PM). For a deeper understanding of the site, you can also utilize the free volunteer guide service, which requires prior application.
Near Tsuruga Castle, you can find other historical sites such as Oyakuen Garden and the Matsudaira Family Mausoleum. The Sannomaru area also hosts the Fukushima Prefectural Museum, a local athletic stadium, and a municipal swimming pool, making this a vibrant cultural and leisure hub.
An admission fee is required to enter the castle keep. Payments can be made in cash (Japanese Yen) at the window, or via