Kakegawa Castle

Enjoy the history and the view

Peter Sidell Mar 08, 2015 - 1 min read

<p>The castle is perched on a hill overlooking the town</p>

<p>A view of the castle on its hill from my hotel</p>

<p>Wings make the castle appear larger than it is</p>

<p>The view down from the top of the steps</p>

<p>Looking back at the town, you can see the bullet trains zooming through</p>

<p>It was reconstructed entirely of wood, based on a surviving original drawing</p>

<p>Get there at the right time and you can watch the sunset</p>

<p>A suit of armour displayed inside the keep</p>

<p>The main gate to the castle grounds</p>

Kakegawa's most prominent landmark, the castle stands high on a hill overlooking the town. Originally built in the 15th century, it was all but destroyed by an earthquake in 1854, then reconstructed entirely of wood to its original layout. Inside there are displays of artefacts such as armour and fans, features such as the 'ambush hideout', and recorded information about its history. It also commands a fine view of the town and surrounding countryside and, on clear winter days, Mount Fuji.

Peter Sidell @peter.sidell

I came to Japan from Manchester, England in 2003, and have travelled a lot since then, around Japan and in Asia. When I'm not working, I write satire and perform stand-up comedy in and around Tokyo. Check YouTube for a taste.