Winter Visit to Inuyama Castle: The Tranquil Beauty of an Ancient Castle

Inuyama Castle, located in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, is an ancient castle with over 400 years of history, known as one of the oldest surviving castles in Japan. Perched on the banks of the Kiso River and built on a hill, the castle offers a commanding view of the surrounding scenery. In winter, when snow blankets its ancient rooftops and stone walls, Inuyama Castle resembles a serene landscape painting, showcasing the unique charm of this historic site. Historical Legacy Inuyama Castle was built in 1537 by Oda Nobuyasu, the uncle of Oda Nobunaga. The castle has withstood numerous battles during the Sengoku period and remains one of the 12 original castles still standing in Japan. The castle keep is a wooden structure that retains its original design and construction, earning it the designation of an Important Cultural Property and being listed as a National Treasure in 1984. Visiting Inuyama Castle in winter, the sense of history is even more profound against the backdrop of snow. Stepping inside the castle, one can almost hear the drums of past battles and imagine the samurai who once defended their homeland here. The Winter Beauty of Inuyama Castle Inuyama Castle in winter has a special allure. The black rooftops stand out strikingly against the white snow, and the ancient stone walls and wooden structures complement the icy landscape, highlighting the castle's resilience and elegance. As you ascend the winding paths of the castle, the mist and snowflakes intertwine, seemingly guiding visitors into a tranquil time and space. From the top of the castle keep, you can overlook the entire Inuyama Castle town and the magnificent scenery of the Kiso River. The winter tranquility inspires awe. The snowy riverbanks and distant mountains create a picturesque scene that is hard to leave. Especially at sunset, the snow and the ancient castle glow with a golden hue under the slanting rays, as if the entire world is reduced to this solitary ancient castle, quietly guarding the memories of the past.