Tour the Fortress and Grounds that Were Home to a Shogun
Sunpu Castle Park is a historical site located in Shizuoka, japan. It was once the home of Tokugawa Ieyasu, a powerful shogun who played a significant role in Japanese history. Although most of the original castle and buildings have been destroyed, the area and castle recreations are still an excellent place to visit and learn about the fascinating history of Japan.
How to Get There
Getting to Sunpu Castle Park is relatively easy. If you’re coming from Tokyo, you can take a shinkansen train to Shizuoka Station, which is just an hour away. From there, you have two options: either take a taxi or walk to the park. The park is a 15-minute walk from JR Shizuoka Station or a 12-minute walk from Shin-Shizuoka Station on the Shizutetsu Line. Taxis are also available if you’re in a hurry.
Quick Facts
Here are some quick facts about Sunpu Castle Park:
1. Tokugawa Ieyasu spent most of his life at Sunpu Castle and died there. It holds significant historical importance for the shogun.
2. The park features a beautiful garden with an artificial mountain that resembles Mt. Fuji. It offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors.
The Castle’s History
Sunpu Castle has a rich and storied history. It served as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who grew up there as a hostage to a rival clan. After becoming a shogun, he returned to the castle and lived there until his death in 1616. The castle faced several disasters throughout its existence, including two fires in 1607 and 1635. It was eventually torn down at the end of the feudal period, and the walls collapsed during a great earthquake in 1854.
Despite these challenges, many of the castle’s gates and turrets have been reconstructed in recent decades. One notable reconstruction is the Higashi Gomon, built in a style known as a “death-box gate.” This gate was strategically designed so that attackers entering the courtyard would be decimated by gun and arrow fire from all four walls.
Take a Relaxing Stroll
The park surrounding Sunpu Castle is a perfect place to take a leisurely stroll. It is open from early morning until well after dark, providing ample time for visitors to explore its beauty. One of the highlights of the park is the Momijiyama Garden. This charming garden features soil piled up to resemble Mt. Fuji and offers stunning views of what appears to be a tea plantation, a waterfall, and a carp pond. Additionally, there is a teahouse where visitors can enjoy a cup of Shizuoka’s finest tea and indulge in some delicious sweets.
Recommended for You
If you have extra time during your visit to Shizuoka, there are a few other attractions nearby that we recommend checking out:
1. Kunozan Toshogu Shrine: This shrine is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers breathtaking views. It is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu and is considered one of the most important Toshogu shrines in Japan.
2. Nihondaira Plateau and Kunozan: Located near Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, this plateau provides panoramic views of Suruga Bay and the surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.
In conclusion, Sunpu Castle Park is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in Japanese culture. Despite the destruction of the original castle, the park and its recreations offer a glimpse into the life and legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Whether you’re taking a relaxing stroll through the picturesque gardens or exploring the reconstructed gates and turrets, Sunpu Castle Park is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, if you find yourself in Shizuoka, don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of Japan at Sunpu Castle Park.
Address And Maps Location:
1-1 Sunpujokoen, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka-shi, Shizuoka-ken
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