Kofu Castle is also affectionately known as “Maizuru Castle,” a name derived from the beauty of its overlapping white walls, which resemble a flying crane with its wings spread. The castle ruins were registered as a National Historic Site on February 26, 2019. Currently, the site is divided into Kofu City Historical Park and Maizuru Castle Park, located south across the JR Chuo Line, serving as a place of relaxation for local residents. This guide traces the castle’s history from its construction to its present-day appearance, introducing the impressive stone walls and restored architecture. We also provide tips for enjoying Kofu Castle to the fullest, including access, walking trails, and information on nearby gourmet food and souvenirs. Experience the charm of Kofu Castle to the fullest and spend a memorable day here.
What is Kofu Castle (Maizuru Castle Park)? Its Overview and Attractions
Kofu Castle, whose castle tower remains in Kofu City, the prefectural capital of Yamanashi Prefecture, is a historic castle site that was built during the Warring States period and flourished as the center of the Kofu domain during the Edo period. Located close to the south exit of Kofu Station on the JR Chuo Line, it has now been developed into Maizuru Castle Park and Kofu City Historical Park, and is a popular place of relaxation for local residents and tourists alike. The stone walls and restored turrets, which convey the grandeur of the past, allow visitors to feel the breath of history.
Basic information and historical background of Kofu Castle
Kofu Castle was an important base, and construction is said to have begun on the orders of Toyotomi Hideyoshi after the downfall of the Takeda clan, led by Takeda Shingen, a famous general of Kai Province, now Yamanashi Prefecture, who was a representative figure in the Sengoku period. As the center of Kai Province, during the Edo period, confidants of Tokugawa Ieyasu and related feudal lords served as castle lords, and the castle played a key role for the Edo Shogunate. Its robust construction is known to have embodied the finest technology of the time.
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Content
location
1-5-4 Marunouchi, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Start of castle construction
Around 1590 (by order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi)
Main castle lord
Kato Mitsuyasu, Asano Nagamasa, Tokugawa Yoshinao, Tokugawa Tsunashige, etc.
alias
Maizuru Castle
The current state of Maizuru Castle Park
After the Meiji Restoration, Kofu Castle was demolished under the castle abolition order, but the site has been reborn as Maizuru Castle Park. Within the spacious park, stone walls remain that convey the appearance of the time, and in recent years, the Inariyagura and Yamate Gomon Gate have been restored to Kofu City Historical Park, making it a place where history can be felt up close. With beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring, hydrangeas in the summer, and autumn leaves in the fall, you can enjoy the scenery where nature and history are in harmony with each season.
One of the attractions of Maizuru Castle Park is its easy access, being located right next to Kofu Station. Walking paths have been developed to ensure that visitors have a pleasant time. Another great attraction of Maizuru Castle Park is the opportunity to spend some time relaxing while learning about the castle’s history.
A monument erected in the park
This striking stone monument stands approximately 30.3 meters tall within Maizuru Castle Park. Its structure consists of a base, a monument body, and a pyramidal body, with the body being an obelisk-shaped structure made up of ten piled granite blocks. The base has a unique design that imitates the pylons used in ancient Egyptian temple gates. The granite used was quarried from the former Imperial Forest (present-day Jinkan district of Koshu City). Following repeated floods at the end of the Meiji period, Emperor Meiji bestowed land upon the area, which became an opportunity to promote forest conservation. The gratitude monument was erected to commemorate this “Imperial Forest.”
Unraveling the history of Kofu Castle
Background of the castle’s construction and Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s involvement
Kofu Castle was built as a base for governing Kai Province (present-day Yamanashi Prefecture) as Toyotomi Hideyoshi unified Japan towards the end of the Warring States period. After the fall of the Takeda clan, the area was temporarily ruled by Tokugawa Ieyasu, but as Hideyoshi’s unification of Japan progressed, Kai Province came under the direct control of the Toyotomi government, or became the territory of an important daimyo.
Hideyoshi ordered his vassals, Kato Mitsuyasu and Asano Nagamasa, to build a new castle in Kofu, the center of Kai Province. This is thought to have had the purpose of controlling the eastern provinces and keeping an eye on Tokugawa Ieyasu. Large stone walls were built, but due to Hideyoshi’s death and the effects of the Battle of Sekigahara, the planned castle tower was never completed, and the castle’s appearance changed significantly.
The evolution of Kofu Castle from the Tokugawa period to the present day
Development by Tokugawa Ieyasu and the establishment of the Kofu Domain
Tokugawa Ieyasu, who seized control of the country after the Battle of Sekigahara, deeply understood the importance of Kofu Castle. This castle, a strategic point in the eastern provinces, was either placed under the direct control of the shogunate or entrusted to a trusted fudai daimyo, and he developed it as a defensive line for Edo and a base for governing Kai Province.
Kofu Castle played an important role when Tokugawa Yoshinao (later lord of Owari Domain), son of Tokugawa Ieyasu, became the castle’s lord, and later the Mito Tokugawa family, one of the three main branches of the Tokugawa clan, also sent lords to the castle. In particular, during the reign of Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the fifth shogun of the Edo shogunate, Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu became the lord of Kofu Domain and devoted himself to improving the castle and developing the castle town, leading to the prosperity of Kofu.
From the Meiji Restoration to the Present
With the end of the Edo period and the arrival of the Meiji Restoration, Kofu Castle also came to an end with its historical role. Following an order to abolish castles issued by the Meiji government, many buildings were demolished and the vast grounds gradually underwent a transformation. All that remains of the once magnificent castle are the stone walls, and the area was later developed into a park, becoming a place of relaxation for people.
As the eras progressed from the Showa era to the Heisei and Reiwa eras, the historical value of Kofu Castle was reassessed, and full-scale excavation and restoration work began. As a result, the castle, which was thought to have been lost, is gradually being revived in the modern era.
The appearance and significance of the restored gates and turrets
The restored gates and turrets give visitors a chance to experience the history of that time. Buildings such as the Yamate-gomon Gate, Inariyagura , and Kajikuruwa, which have been faithfully recreated to their original form, are valuable for learning about the architectural techniques and castle structure of the Edo period.
These restorations are not just about rebuilding the buildings, but also about reaffirming the historical role that Kofu Castle played and how it has been involved in the development of the city of Kofu. The landscape created by the sturdy stone walls of the past and the restored buildings resonates deeply with visitors and stimulates their imaginations about history.
Highlights of Kofu Castle (Maizuru Castle Park)
Impressive stone walls and Tenshudai
Kofu Castle’s stone walls are an important part of the castle, conveying the original appearance of the castle to the present day. Constructed from the end of the Sengoku period through the Edo period, the stone walls show the different castle-building techniques of each era, such as rough-faced construction and uchikomi-tsugi jointing. In particular, the tall stone walls of the Tenshudai and on the east side of Kofu Castle are captivating in their scale and beauty.
The Tenshudai is where the magnificent castle tower, the symbol of Kofu Castle, may have once stood. From here, you can get a panoramic view of the Kofu Basin, and on clear days you can see Mount Fuji and the majestic Southern Alps, and the sunsets during the magic hour are also beautiful.
You can spend some time reminiscing about history, wondering if the castle lord at the time was also looking out at this view. In some places on the stone walls around the Inariyagura , you can still see the “markings” of the craftsmen who worked the stones, and it’s a fun experience to walk around looking for them.
The architectural beauty of restored turrets and gates
At Maizuru Castle Park, the turrets and gates have been restored based on historical research, conveying the castle’s appearance at the time. Each building embodies the technology and thoughts of the people of the time.
The main restored buildings include:
Restoration year
name
Features
1997
Kajikuruwamon Gate
Kajikuruwamon Gate is a “Magutamon” gate designed to prevent enemy invasion, and is designed so that it is impossible to go straight ahead after passing through the gate. It is a highly defensive and practical castle gate.
The current gate was restored in 1997 based on historical documents and excavation surveys, and its stately wooden structure with a gabled roof and real tiled roof gives it the dignity of the past.
1999
Uchimatukagemon Gate
Uchimatukagemon Gate is a gate that connects the Yakatakuruwa and Ninomaru of Kofu Castle, and is located on the northwest side of the Honmaru. Its structure is in the Korean gate style, with a crown beam on the large pillars at the front and a powerful gabled roof made of real tiles.
Inarikuruwamon Gate
The Inari Kuruwa Gate connects the Inari Kuruwa and Kaji Kuruwa, and is located south of the Tenshudai. Like the Uchi Shoin Gate, it is a Korean-style gabled gate with a tiled roof.
2004
Inariyagura
The Inariyagura is a two-story tower with a gabled roof and tiled roof, located in the northeast corner of the Inari enclosure of Kofu Castle. The interior is an exhibition space where you can see the timberwork and wall structure up close, and learn about the history and structure of Kofu Castle.
2007
Yamanotegomon Gate
Yamate Gate and Yamate Watariyaguramon are one of the three main entrances to Kofu Castle. Yamate Gate served as the castle gate, while Watariyaguramon served as an armory. Currently, the interior of Watariyaguramon is an exhibition room where excavated items, models, and historical documents are on display. There is an observation space at the back, from which you can get a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji and the Inariyagura .
2013
Kuroganemon Gate
Located near the main citadel and the Tenshudai, this sturdy gate shows that it was a key part of Kofu Castle’s defenses.
These restored buildings are valuable examples of the construction techniques and castle structure of the time, allowing visitors to experience the history of Kofu Castle firsthand.
Maizuru Castle Park is a place that shows beautiful scenery all year round. Take a stroll through the park and experience the changing scenery with each season.
The park is filled with cherry blossoms, including Somei Yoshino and weeping cherry trees. When in full bloom, the contrast between the historic stone walls and the cherry blossoms is very beautiful. The park is bustling with people enjoying cherry blossom viewing, signaling the arrival of spring.
summer
The bright greenery and the greenery of the trees bring a pleasant coolness. You can spend a relaxing time in the spacious park.
autumn
The various trees in the park change color, creating a beautiful autumn scenery. The combination of the historical buildings and the vibrant autumn leaves is truly picturesque.
winter
When it snows, the castle is enveloped in a silvery white blanket, creating a fantastical atmosphere. In the crisp winter air, you can quietly feel the history.
Recommended courses for historical walks
Here is a recommended walking course to efficiently explore the history and highlights of Kofu Castle! Take your time to explore at your own pace and feel the history.
Highlights
Content
1. Start from the north exit of Kofu Station
The entrance to Kofu City Historical Park is just around the corner.
2. To Yamate Gomon Gate
Go through Koshu Yumekoji, head east along the train tracks, and cross the JR Chuo Line tracks to reach Maizuru Castle Park.
3. Head towards Hydrangea Square
Pass through Koshu Yume Koji, travel east along the railroad tracks, and cross the JR Chuo Line tracks.
4. Visit the Inariyagura and kuroganemon Gate at Maizuru Castle Park
You can see restored turrets and gates and learn about life and defense at the time.
5. To the Tenshudai
Enjoy the view of the Kofu Basin from this prime vantage point.
6. Stroll around the stone walls
You can feel the history as you look for the magnificent stone walls and the marks of the craftsmen.
7. Take a break at Jiyuu Square
We recommend taking a break in this spacious space while looking out at the stone walls.
This course will take you about an hour and a half to two hours to walk around, allowing you to fully appreciate the charm of Kofu Castle and spend a pleasant time there.
Recommended spots to stop by during your walk
Koshu Yumekoji
Located right outside the north exit of Kofu Station, Koshu Yumekoji is a charming spot with a retro atmosphere, adjacent to Kofu City Historical Park, the site of Kofu Castle. Storehouse-style buildings line the cobblestone streets, dotted with cafes, gourmet restaurants, and shops selling Yamanashi specialties. Enjoy a leisurely tea break or some shopping while strolling through the historic streets.
Go through Koshu Yumekoji, head east along the railroad tracks, and cross the railroad crossing to arrive at the northeast entrance to Maizuru Castle Park.
Near the crossing, there are rows of yakitori restaurants and Japanese sweets shops, and if you cross the crossing and head south, you will come across an impressive, high stone wall on the east side of Maizuru Castle Park. Cafes and restaurants are scattered along the street, making your stroll even more enjoyable.
Robata Yakitori Tori no Hosomichi
We offer a wide selection of carefully selected sake from Shinshu breweries, including our carefully grilled skewers. Our special sauce and salt are both elegant and rich in flavor. We recommend not only our yakitori but also our homemade snacks!
This long-established Japanese confectionery shop was founded in 1928. Its specialty, millet daifuku, has a gentle sweetness and a chewy texture that is simply exquisite. It offers a wide selection of handmade Japanese confectionery that has long been loved for its unchanging flavor, including bean mochi, kusa mochi, kinako daifuku, and mitarashi-yakidango. This is a must-visit shop for Japanese confectionery lovers. Come and enjoy the nostalgic and comforting flavors.
rokuiro “The Coffee Shop Next to the Castle”
This cafe is attractive for its location overlooking the stone walls. The interior is decorated with colorful dried flowers, creating a warm and relaxing atmosphere. Many customers visit specifically to see the stone walls, and it is also popular with castle enthusiasts. Enjoy a relaxing time with fragrant coffee and sweets made with seasonal fruits unique to Yamanashi.
Tan-yaki Yohei is a Japanese dining restaurant specializing in beef tongue, where you can enjoy thickly sliced beef tongue in a variety of ways, including grilled, shabu-shabu, and sashimi. Among these, the specialty, tongue shabu-shabu, is a speciality that can only be enjoyed here. There is a wide variety of menu items available, including grilled tongue, boiled tongue, tongue sashimi, and tongue stew. They are also particular about their wine and sake, and offer a selection of carefully selected brands, including those from Yamanashi Prefecture.
They offer French course meals for both lunch and dinner by reservation. They specialize in fish dishes, and are known for their delicate and beautiful presentation and carefully prepared flavors. They also have a wide selection of wines, including those from Yamanashi Prefecture, so you can enjoy pairings with your food.
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The building is three stories tall, with accommodation facilities with three private rooms scheduled to open on the third floor in November 2025. The second floor will house a gallery (currently under construction), while the first floor will house a cafe and bar and grocery shop. The cafe on the first floor is a quiet and sophisticated hideaway for adults. The inorganic concrete and warm wooden furniture blend together, and soft natural light pours in. Guests can spend a peaceful time sipping freshly brewed herbal tea while gazing out at the greenery and stone walls outside the window.
You can visit Kofu Castle (Maizuru Castle Park) by train or car. Choose your mode of transportation based on your travel plans.
Access by train and route from Kofu Station
If you are coming by train, the nearest station is Kofu Station on the JR Chuo Line.
When you exit the north exit of JR Kofu Station, you will see a square in front of you, and adjacent to that square is Kofu Historical Park. Also, if you exit from the south exit, you will see the entrance to Kofu Castle (Maizuru Castle Park) in about a 3-minute walk. It is in a very accessible location, so you can drop in anytime.
route
Approximate travel time from major stations
JR Chuo Main Line Kofu Station
Approximately 90 minutes by express train from Shinjuku Station
JR Minobu Line Kofu Station
Approximately 120 minutes by express train from Shizuoka Station
Access by car and parking information
If you are coming by car, it takes about 20 minutes from Kofu Showa IC on the Chuo Expressway to Kofu Castle (Maizuru Castle Park). There are several paid parking lots around the park. It is a good idea to check the location, fees, and opening hours of the parking lot in advance. Parking lots can get crowded on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. You may also want to consider using public transportation.
Useful information for visiting Kofu Castle
Opening times and admission fees
We will provide you with information on opening hours and admission fees that you should know when visiting Kofu Castle (Maizuru Castle Park).
Facility name
Opening hours
Closed days
Admission fee
Maizuru Castle Park (free stroll area)
Always open
Open all year round
free
Maizuru Castle Park Inariyagura Exhibition Room and Observation Space
9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)
Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the following day will be closed), New Year’s holidays (December 29th to January 3rd) *The park is always open
free
Kofu City Historical Park Yamanote Gomon Exhibition Room and Observation Space
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the following day will be closed), New Year’s holidays (December 29th to January 3rd) *The park is always open
free
Generally, you can freely stroll around Maizuru Castle Park at any time. If you wish to tour the interior of the historic buildings, please be aware of opening hours. For more information, please check the official Kofu City website .
Kofu Castle (Maizuru Castle Park), built by order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and associated with the Tokugawa family, is an important place in the history of Yamanashi. Located just a short distance from Kofu Station, you can enjoy impressive stone walls, restored turrets and gates, and beautiful scenery throughout the seasons. By visiting this place, you can feel the passage of time from the Warring States period to the present day and experience the breath of history. Why not take your family and friends out to discover the charms of Kofu Castle?
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