Question 1

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

From JR Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, take the loop bus (towards Higashiyama Onsen) and get off at the "Tsurugajo Entrance" bus stop, then walk for about 1 minute. By car from the Aizu-Wakamatsu IC on the Banetsuan Expressway, it takes about 10 minutes.

Question 2

When do the cherry blossoms bloom?

Accepted Answer

Tsurugajo Castle Park is listed among "Japan's 100 Famous Cherry Blossom Spots." The peak season is typically early to mid-April. Approximately 1,000 cherry trees, mainly Somei Yoshino, bloom and night illumination is held.

Question 3

When is the illumination held?

Accepted Answer

Illumination is held in four seasons: spring (cherry blossom season), summer, autumn, and winter. Normally lights are on from sunset until around 21:00, but this varies by season and events. We recommend checking the official website and social media for the latest information.

Question 4

Can I bring pets into the castle grounds?

Accepted Answer

The castle grounds (outer perimeter area) can be explored with pets. However, pets are not permitted inside the Tenshu.

Question 5

What are the opening hours and holidays?

Accepted Answer

8:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30), open year-round. Hours may change due to renovations or special events. Please check the official website for the latest information.

Question 6

How long does a visit take?

Accepted Answer

Viewing inside the Tenshu takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. A leisurely stroll through the Rinkaku tea room and the entire castle grounds takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Question 7

How much is the admission fee?

Accepted Answer

Tenshu admission is ¥410 for adults (high school students and over), ¥150 for elementary and junior high school students, and free for preschool children. The combined ticket for Tenshu and Rinkaku tea room is ¥520 for adults and ¥150 for elementary and junior high school students. Holders of disability certificates receive free admission for themselves. Group discounts are available for parties of 30 or more.

Question 8

When was the red-tiled Tenshu restored?

Accepted Answer

The current Tenshu was rebuilt in Showa 40 (1965). In Heisei 23 (2011), the roof tiles were replaced with red tiles that match the end of the Edo period, resulting in its current appearance. It is known as the only existing Tenshu in Japan with red roof tiles.

Question 9

What kind of facility is the Rinkaku tea room?

Accepted Answer

A tea room located within Tsurugajo Castle Park, said to have been built by Shoan, the son of Sen no Rikyu. Admission is ¥210 for adults (combined ticket for Tenshu and Rinkaku: ¥520 for adults), where you can enjoy matcha tea and regular tea ceremonies are held (elementary and junior high school students have free admission to Rinkaku).

Question 10

What is the view like from the Tenshu?

Accepted Answer

From the top floor of the Tenshu, you can see an expansive view of Aizu-Wakamatsu city, the Aizu Basin, and Mount Bandai. Digital content is also available that allows you to overlay the landscape of the Edo period with the present-day view using a smartphone.

Question 11

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

There are three paid parking areas around Tsuruga Castle Park: Nishi-Demaru, Minami-guchi, and Higashi-guchi. These get very congested during peak seasons such as cherry blossom season.

Question 12

Is there a parking lot?

Accepted Answer

Yes, parking is available. Please check the official information for details.

Question 13

When is the facility closed?

Accepted Answer

Open year-round

Question 14

What is the address?

Accepted Answer

1-1 Oite-machi, Aizu-Wakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture

Question 15

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

From Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, take a bus (bound for Tsuruga Castle) for approximately 10 minutes to Tsuruga Castle Entrance bus stop, then walk approximately 1 minute. By car: approximately 10 minutes from Aizu-Wakamatsu IC on the Bandai Expressway.

Question 16

What are the admission fees?

Accepted Answer

Tenshu (castle tower) admission: Adults (high school students and over) ¥410, Elementary and junior high school students ¥150, Preschool children free. Combined ticket for Tenshu and Rinkaku tea room: Adults ¥520, Elementary and junior high school students ¥150

Question 17

What are the opening hours?

Accepted Answer

8:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30)

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