Tsuruga Castle
The Red-Tiled Testament to Samurai Loyalty
Tsuruga Castle (also called Aizuwakamatsu Castle or Wakamatsu Castle) was originally built in 1384 and significantly expanded in 1593 by feudal lord Gamo Ujisato, who constructed a seven-story keep. The castle served as the seat of the Aizu Domain, ruled by the Matsudaira clan from 1643 onwards. The Aizu samurai were known for their fierce loyalty to the Tokugawa shogunate and adherence to the samurai code of bushido.
Tsuruga Castle earned its place in history during the Boshin War (1868-1869), when the Meiji government forces attacked Aizu for its loyalty to the shogunate. The castle withstood a one-month siege, enduring fierce artillery bombardment. During this siege, the tragic story of the Byakkotai (White Tiger Brigade) - teenage samurai who committed suicide believing the castle had fallen - became a symbol of samurai loyalty and honor. The castle finally surrendered, and was demolished in 1874 during the anti-feudal reforms.
The current structure was reconstructed in 1965 using modern materials, and underwent major renovations in 2011 when the roof tiles were replaced with distinctive red akagewara tiles - the same type used in the original Edo-period structure. This makes Tsuruga Castle unique among Japanese castle reconstructions for its historically accurate red roof. The castle now houses a museum detailing Aizu's samurai culture, the Boshin War, and the region's history.
Key Highlights
- Unique red roof tiles (akagewara) - only castle in Japan
- Site of famous 1868 Boshin War siege
- Museum on Aizu samurai culture and history
- Beautiful surrounding Tsuruga Castle Park
- Connection to tragic Byakkotai story
- Spectacular cherry blossoms (1,000 trees) in spring
Access Information
Location
1-1 Otemachi, Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima 965-0873, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (JR Ban-etsu West Line)
Opening Hours
8:30-17:00 (last entry 16:30) | Open daily
Admission Fee
¥410 for adults, ¥150 for children | Combined ticket with Rinkaku teahouse: ¥520
How to Get There
From Tokyo
Tohoku Shinkansen to Koriyama, transfer to JR Ban-etsu West Line
3 hours
From Niigata
JR Ban-etsu West Line directly to Aizu-Wakamatsu
1.5 hours
From Aizu-Wakamatsu Station
Haikara-san retro bus or Akabe-san bus (¥210)
15 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
The Red Roof Tiles Make It Unique
Tsuruga is the only castle in Japan with red akagewara tiles, restored to historical accuracy in 2011. The distinctive red roof against white walls creates a beautiful contrast. Best viewed from Rinkaku teahouse garden across the moat or from the park's observation points.
Cherry Blossom Season is Spectacular
The castle park contains about 1,000 cherry trees that bloom in mid-late April, creating one of Tohoku's finest hanami spots. The combination of red-roofed castle, pink blossoms, and moats is stunning. Expect large crowds during peak bloom. Night illuminations enhance the beauty.
Museum Tells Powerful Samurai Story
The castle's museum (included in admission) chronicles Aizu domain history, the Boshin War siege, Byakkotai tragedy, and samurai culture. English explanations available. The exhibits powerfully convey the end of the samurai era. Allow 1-1.5 hours to fully appreciate the displays and views from the top floor.
Visit Rinkaku Teahouse Garden
The adjacent Rinkaku teahouse and garden (¥210 separate, ¥520 combined ticket) offers traditional tea service in a beautiful setting with castle views. The garden provides one of the best external perspectives of the castle across the moat. Peaceful spot for contemplation.
Explore Historical Sites Around Town
Aizu-Wakamatsu has numerous samurai-era sites: Oyakuen Garden (medicinal herb garden of the feudal lord), former samurai residences, Byakkotai Memorial Hall at Iimori Hill (where teenage samurai committed suicide), and sake breweries. The retro Haikara-san bus connects major sites (¥210 per ride, day pass ¥600).
Try Local Aizu Cuisine and Sake
Aizu is famous for excellent sake (try Suehiro and Tsurugajo breweries), handmade soba, kozuyu (festive soup with scallops), and dengaku (grilled miso-coated vegetables). Many restaurants near the castle serve traditional meals. The region's food culture reflects its samurai heritage.
Aizu Festival in September
The Aizu Autumn Festival (late September) features a grand procession of 500+ participants in samurai armor and Edo-period costumes through the castle area. One of Tohoku's major historical festivals. Also includes traditional performances and food stalls.
Winter Snow Creates Dramatic Scenes
Heavy Tohoku snow transforms the red-roofed castle into a stunning winter scene - red, white, and surrounding snow-covered pines create beautiful contrasts. Fewer tourists, lower hotel rates. The castle park's snow-covered landscapes and moats offer photogenic winter views. Cold but magical.
FAQ
How long does it take to visit?
Allow 2 hours to explore the castle, museum, and grounds. Add time for the nearby samurai residence and garden. Cherry blossom season requires extra time for photography.
Is this an original castle?
No, it's a 1965 concrete reconstruction, but historically accurate. The red tile roof, unique in Japan, was restored in 2011 using traditional techniques.
What's the historical significance?
Famous for the month-long siege during the Boshin War (1868). The tragic story of young Byakkotai samurai who committed suicide here is deeply moving.
Can I go to the top?
Yes, the castle houses a museum with exhibits on each floor. The top floor offers panoramic views of Aizu-Wakamatsu and surrounding mountains.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring for spectacular cherry blossoms within the castle grounds. Autumn offers fall colors. Winter snow creates beautiful contrast with red tiles.
What's nearby to see?
Oyakuen Garden, Aizu Bukeyashiki (samurai residence), and Sazaedo Temple are close. Mount Iimori has the Byakkotai graves and memorial.
Is there an English audio guide?
Yes, audio guides available for rent. English signage exists but is limited. The audio guide greatly enhances understanding of the castle's dramatic history.
Are there special events?
The Aizu Festival in September features samurai parades. Cherry blossom illuminations in spring. Various cultural events throughout the year.
What local foods should I try?
Aizu is famous for sake, horse meat sashimi, and kozuyu soup. Kitakata ramen is nearby. Local restaurants serve traditional Aizu cuisine.
How do I get there?
From Tokyo, take Shinkansen to Koriyama then local train to Aizu-Wakamatsu (2.5 hours total). Loop buses connect station to castle and other sights.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Aizu Higashiyama Onsen
A 1,300-year-old hot spring town in the mountains near Aizu-Wakamatsu, known for healing waters, traditional ryokan, and connections to the tragic White Tiger Brigade samurai story.
Goshikinuma Ponds
A collection of volcanic ponds displaying mystical colors ranging from emerald green to cobalt blue, created by Mt. Bandai's 1888 eruption in the beautiful highland of Urabandai.
Mount Bandai & Urabandai
Volcanic mountain and its spectacular northern plateau dotted with colorful lakes, autumn foliage, and hiking trails shaped by a massive 1888 eruption.
Ouchi-juku Post Town
A remarkably preserved Edo-period post town with 40+ thatched-roof houses lining a car-free main street, offering a rare glimpse of feudal-era Japan frozen in time.