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Years of history from the castle walls to the castle keep! A symbol of Kochi.
Kochi Castle was built by Yamauchi Kazutoyo, the first feudal lord of the Tosa domain. It was first built in 1601 after ten years of construction, and unfortunately lost to a fire in 1727. The castle you see today was reconstructed in 1753.
Kochi Castle is one of 12 since the Edo Period that still has its original castle tower, and is the only one that keeps both its original castle tower and main Honmaru Palace hall. The entire 15 buildings across its grounds are registered as a National Important Cultural Asset.
It has recognized as one of the Top 100 Castles in Japan.
Kochi Castle is known for its number of unique features that protect its keep. The most famous of which would be the “shinobigaeshi”, a rare feature of Kochi Castle where iron pikes are kept to deter enemies from climbing the castle tower’s stone walls.
The entire castle grounds at Kochi Castle are open as a part of the Kochi castle park, but you can visit the castle tower by paying an entrance fee. From the top you’ll find sprawling views of the city and feel like you’re on top of the world.
The castle is illuminated from sunset until 10:00pm, making for an especially beautiful sight.
Kochi Castle
View from the castle tower
Tenshukaku and Otemon gate
Kochi Castle Tower and Honmaru (main keep)
Shinobigaeshi
Night illuminations
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I've visited so many Japanese castles, and honestly, they all look pretty similar. If you're not really into Japanese history, it's mostly just a good spot for photos.
The location is right in the city, so it's very convenient to get to. Kochi Castle is built on a slope, so you'll need to climb some stairs, which can be a bit tiring. The exhibits inside are detailed, and there are Chinese translations, making it easy to understand the significance.
Kochi Castle is one of the 12 original castle towers among Japan's Top 100 Castles. It's really well preserved. There's an entrance fee only if you go inside the main tower, where you can get a great view of Kochi City. Definitely a must-visit spot in Kochi.
