Inuyama Castle: A Timeless Samurai Treasure

Nestled atop a bluff overlooking the Kiso River in Aichi Prefecture, Inuyama Castle (犬山城, Inuyama-jō) is one of only five remaining original castle towers (tenshu) in Japan—and the oldest among them, dating back to the late 1580s. Designated a National Treasure, it towers over its charming castle town, offering panoramic views stretching from the serene waters of the Kiso River to distant peaks and even Nagoya’s skyline.

If you're planning a day trip from Nagoya, this comprehensive guide will help you savor the history, sights, and flavors of Inuyama from first train ride to last bite.

🚆 How to Get to Inuyama Castle from Nagoya

Step-by-Step Train Access

• Starting Point: Nagoya Station

• Transfer To: Meitetsu Nagoya Station (located adjacent to JR Nagoya Station)

• Train Line: Meitetsu Inuyama Line

• Train Type: Limited Express or Express

• Destination Station: Inuyama Station or Inuyama-Yūen Station

• Travel Time: 25–40 minutes

• Fare: Approx. ¥550–650 one-way

The Limited Express trains are the fastest and most comfortable option. Once you arrive at Inuyama Station, it's about a 15-minute walk through the historic castle town to reach Inuyama Castle. If you disembark at Inuyama-Yūen Station, it's a slightly shorter walk and a more scenic riverside route.

⚠️ Important Note:
The Meitetsu Line is a private railway and not covered by the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass).
You’ll need to purchase a separate ticket at Meitetsu Nagoya Station. IC cards like manaca, TOICA, or Suica are accepted.

Looking for a Hotel in Nagoya or Inuyama?

What to See in Inuyama

1. Inuyama Castle (犬山城)

Inuyama Castle was built in 1537 and stands as Japan’s oldest original surviving castle. Unlike many reconstructed castles across Japan, Inuyama retains its wooden structure, giving visitors an authentic feel of feudal Japan.

Inside, narrow staircases creak beneath your feet, and wooden beams still bear the marks of centuries past. The highlight is the top-floor veranda, a rare feature among Japanese castles, offering breathtaking 360° views of:

• The Kiso River winding below

• Mt. Ontake in the distance

• Gifu Castle perched on the opposite hill

• The Nagoya skyline on a clear day

Take your time to explore each floor, where you’ll find historical exhibits, samurai armor, and models of castle fortifications.

2. Inuyama Castle Town (城下町 – Jōkamachi)

The old castle town surrounding Inuyama Castle is just as enchanting. Strolling through Honmachi-dōri and Showa Alley, you’ll feel like you've stepped back in time. These streets are lined with:

• Traditional merchant houses (machiya)

• Kimono rental shops

• Souvenir stores offering ceramics, sweets, and folk crafts

• Cozy cafés and dessert shops

This area is a hotspot for Instagram-worthy photo ops, especially with its blend of Edo and Showa era architecture. Consider renting a kimono to truly immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere.

3. Urakuen Garden & Jo-an Teahouse

Just a few minutes from the castle, Urakuen is a peaceful traditional Japanese garden that houses Jo-an, a tea ceremony house designated as a National Treasure.

Visitors can enjoy a quiet walk among moss-covered stones, small waterfalls, and seasonal flowers. For an added experience, participate in a tea ceremony and taste authentic matcha and wagashi (Japanese sweets) in a serene setting.

4. Kiso River and Ukai (Cormorant Fishing)

From late spring to early fall, the Kiso River becomes the stage for ukai, a traditional fishing method using trained cormorants. It's a magical nighttime event where fishermen in traditional attire navigate wooden boats lit by flaming torches.

If you’re visiting during the summer months, check schedules and book a riverside dinner or boat tour to see this 1,300-year-old spectacle. Daytime river cruises are also available for sightseeing.

5. Meiji-mura Open-Air Museum (Optional Side Trip)

If you have extra time, visit the nearby Meiji-mura, a large open-air museum preserving more than 60 buildings from Japan’s Meiji Period (1868–1912). One of its highlights is the reconstructed lobby of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Imperial Hotel.

The museum is located about 20 minutes from Inuyama by bus or taxi and makes a great afternoon addition for architecture and history lovers.

🍡 What to Eat: Street Food & Recommended Shops in Inuyama

Inuyama Castle Town is a haven for foodies, especially those with a taste for traditional Japanese snacks. Below are must-try street foods along with the names of the best shops to find them.

1. Gohei Mochi – at Yamada Gohei Mochi

Thick rice cakes grilled on skewers and smothered in a walnut-miso glaze. Slightly sweet, savory, and full of regional flavor.

Where: Yamada Gohei Mochi
Try: Original and yuzu-flavored varieties

2. Tofu Dengaku – at Sakura Chaya

Tofu grilled over charcoal and topped with different miso sauces: spicy red, sweet white, sesame, and yuzu. Great for vegetarians and full of umami.

Where: Sakura Chaya
Try: The dengaku set with all flavors

3. Grilled Ayu (Sweetfish) – at Ayu no Yatai

Fresh river fish skewered and grilled whole, seasoned with just salt. Light, flaky, and served hot off the coals.

Where: Ayu no Yatai (Sweetfish Stall) on Honmachi Street
Try: Eat whole—bones and all—for the authentic experience

4. Strawberry and Kiwi Ame (Candy Fruit) – at Kamino Manimani

This ultra-Instagrammable treat features glistening candied strawberries or kiwi on a stick, with a light sugar glaze that crackles as you bite in. A sweet and refreshing street snack, especially popular with young visitors.

Where: Kamino Manimani
Try: The three-fruit combo stick or just the strawberry version

5. Dashimaki Tamago (Japanese Omelet) – at Appare Honpo (あっぱれ本舗)

Thick, juicy, slightly sweet rolled omelet made fresh to order. Served on a stick for easy walking snacks. Often finished with soy-based sauce or daikon.

Where: Appare Honpo
Try: Classic tamago or cheese-filled version
Tip: Great with a side of hot tea on cooler days!

6. Niku Sushi (Meat Sushi) – at Inuyama Ushitaro

Seared wagyu beef over vinegared rice, torched for rich umami.

Where: Inuyama Ushitaro
Try: Wagyu Nigiri set or Seared Wasabi Nigiri

7. Local Beer – at Inuyama Loreley Beer Hall

Enjoy a relaxing drink at this riverside beer garden that offers small-batch German-style brews made with local ingredients.

Where: Inuyama Loreley Beer Hall
Try: The dark lager or seasonal specialty beer

🏮 Explore: Inuyama Castle Town & Showa Alley (犬山城下町昭和横丁)

Just a short walk from Inuyama Castle, the Inuyama Castle Town (犬山城下町) is a preserved street area that takes you back in time. Traditional Edo-period architecture lines both sides, creating a perfect backdrop for walking, eating, and snapping photos.

🌟 Highlight: Showa Alley (昭和横丁)

Tucked inside the Castle Town area, Showa Alley is a retro-themed indoor food alley recreating the Showa Era (1926–1989) atmosphere with colorful signs, nostalgic posters, old-school games, and vintage Japanese pop culture vibes. It's a must-visit hidden gem where you can explore:

• 🍜 Mini ramen stands and noodle bars

• 🍺 Tiny izakaya-style stalls

• 🍢 Retro snacks like dagashi, yakitori, and fried croquettes

• 📸 Unique selfie spots in front of Showa signage and classic toys

Whether you want a snack, a quirky photo op, or just a blast from the past, this alleyway adds charm and variety to your day.

🕐 Hours: Generally 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by vendor)
📍 Location: Near the center of Inuyama Castle Town, easily walkable from the castle
💡 Tip: Try a croquette or karaage (fried chicken) and enjoy it under the nostalgic neon signs!

Looking for a Hotel in Nagoya or Inuyama?

Travel Tips for Inuyama Castle Visitors

• Visit Early: To avoid crowds and get great photos, arrive by 9 AM.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The castle steps are steep and the streets are mostly stone-paved.

• Buy Combo Tickets: Meitetsu often offers value packages including transport and admission.

• Bring Cash: Many small food stalls and shops don’t accept credit cards.

• Best Seasons to Visit:

  • Spring: Cherry blossoms around the castle are stunning.

  • Summer: Enjoy cormorant fishing and riverside breezes.

  • Autumn: Rich fall foliage makes the castle even more scenic.

  • Winter: Peaceful atmosphere and fewer tourists.

Final Thoughts

Inuyama Castle is more than just a historic site—it's an immersive cultural experience. From the centuries-old castle keep to the nostalgic castle town lined with street food vendors and kimono-clad visitors, everything about Inuyama feels like a step back into Japan’s rich heritage.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, this day trip from Nagoya offers a little bit of everything: history, culture, food, scenery, and charm. Add Inuyama Castle to your Japan itinerary—you won’t regret it.