Shizuoka｜Sumpu Castle, the legendary place where Tokugawa Ieyasu lived after his abdication and remotely controlled Edo

The beauty of Japan is truly captivating. Upon entering Suruga Castle Park, you'll be struck by the massive golden armor—a replica of the battle uniform once worn by Tokugawa Ieyasu, a truly spectacular sight. Those fascinated by Edo history should definitely visit Shizuoka. In 1958, Tokugawa Ieyasu, then ruler of Suruga Province, began building a castle here, but was later transferred to Kanto by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Suruga Castle was expanded several times during the Edo period. After his abdication, a five-story, seven-story castle tower was built here, strongly symbolizing the center of power. In reality, even though he ostensibly abdicated, Tokugawa Ieyasu remotely controlled the then-Shogun Tokugawa Hidetada from Sunpu Castle, effectively controlling Edo and all of Japan. Following the destruction of the castle tower due to numerous fires and wars, reconstruction of Sunpu Castle began in 1949. The Kun and Xun turrets were later restored and now showcase historical artifacts. The exhibition area displays the family crests of the daimyo, which has an interesting history. To reduce the daimyo's financial resources and prevent them from becoming too powerful, the daimyo were required to contribute money and effort to building roads and castles. Suruga Castle was one of these, which is why the crests of various daimyo can be seen on the stone walls. The room where Takechiyo (Tokugawa Ieyasu's childhood name) studied is also recreated here. Born in Shizuoka, Tokugawa Ieyasu became one of the three great warlords of the Warring States period and established Japan's glorious era that lasted 264 years. 📍Address: 1-1 Sunpujokoen, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka, 420-0855, Japan 🚗A 20-minute walk from Shizuoka Station, or a five-minute walk from Shin-Shizuoka Station. #9月好去2025