Sunpu Castle (駿府城 / Sunpu-jō) remains one of Japan’s most culturally and historically significant sites, best known as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Ieyasu spent part of his youth here as a political hostage under the Imagawa clan, and after retiring as shōgun, he returned to Sunpu to oversee national governance until his death in 1616. During this era, Sunpu grew into a thriving political center rivaling Edo.

One of the castle’s greatest strengths was its strategic location. Sunpu sat directly along the Tōkaidō Road, the most important of the Edo period’s Five Routes connecting Edo and Kyoto. From here, Ieyasu could monitor the movement of people, goods, political envoys, and regional daimyō, allowing him to maintain stability across the nation. The geography of Sunpu also offered a symbolic advantage: on clear days, the castle area provided views of Mount Fuji, reinforcing the spiritual and cultural prestige of the region. This combination of security, symbolism, and accessibility made Sunpu an ideal base for the retired shōgun.

Originally constructed in the late 1580s and expanded significantly in 1607, Sunpu Castle was a major hirajiro (flatland castle) featuring formidable stone walls and three concentric moats, making it one of the largest castles of its time. Though devastating fires in 1607 and 1635 destroyed the seven-story donjon—never rebuilt thereafter—Sunpu remained a vital stronghold and administrative hub throughout the Edo period.

Today, the grounds are preserved as Sunpu Castle Park, a vast and beautifully maintained urban green space that highlights key aspects of the original castle. Visitors can explore:

• Higashi Gomon (East Gate) – a meticulously reconstructed gate built using traditional woodworking techniques.

• Tatsumi Yagura (Southeast Turret) – another authentic reconstruction offering insights into Edo-period fortification design.

• Moats & Stone Walls – many original elements remain intact, showcasing the castle’s scale and defensive ingenuity.

• Momijiyama Garden – a refined Japanese garden symbolizing landscapes of the Suruga region, including viewpoints representing Mount Fuji.

With its blend of natural beauty, historical resonance, and Edo-period craftsmanship, Sunpu Castle Park is a rewarding stop for photographers, cultural explorers, and anyone seeking a peaceful yet educational experience in Shizuoka.

• By Train: From JR Shizuoka Station, walk approximately 10–15 minutes to the park.

• By Bus: Local buses from the station stop at “Aoba Park,” “Kencho-mae,” and surrounding points near the castle.

• By Car: Public parking lots are available around Aoba Park, though walking from Shizuoka Station is most convenient.

• Best seasons: Cherry blossoms in spring and maple foliage in autumn.

• Photography: Early mornings offer fewer visitors and clearer chances of capturing Mount Fuji from the park area.

• Museum areas: The reconstructed gate and turret include informative exhibits.

• Drone note: Drone flying is not permitted within the park due to city regulations.

• Weather tip: Visibility of Mount Fuji depends on season and cloud conditions—winter mornings offer the clearest views.

Admission Fee:

• Sunpu Castle Park: Free

• Higashi Gomon & Tatsumi Yagura: Approx. ¥200–¥300

• Momijiyama Garden: Approx. ¥150–¥300
  (Combined seasonal tickets may cost around ¥300–¥600.)

Opening Time:

• Sunpu Castle Park: Open 24 hours

• Structures & Garden: Typically 9:00–16:30
  (Seasonal variations may apply.)