What Are the Kofu Castle Ruins (Maizuru Castle Park)? Kofu’s Symbol Just Steps from the Station
Kofu Castle Ruins (Kōfu-jō Ato) is a historic castle site in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, now maintained as Maizuru Castle Park (Maizuru-jō Kōen).
After the fall of the Takeda clan, construction progressed in the late 16th century by order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and the castle later became a key base for governing Kai Province under Tokugawa rule.
Today, well-preserved remains centered on impressive stone walls can be seen, and structures such as Inari Yagura, Kurogane-mon Gate, and Yamanote Gomon Gate have been reconstructed.
In 2019 (Heisei 31), it was designated as a National Historic Site and also selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles (No. 25).
Along with preserving the castle ruins, Maizuru Castle Park is loved by locals and visitors as a green public park.
In spring, about 160 cherry trees bloom around the stone walls, making it a famous hanami spot.
From the tenshudai (main keep base), you can enjoy a 360-degree view over the Kofu Basin, with vistas of Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps recognized as one of the “Kanto Fuji-view 100 Scenic Views.”
Another major advantage is its excellent location—only about a 3-minute walk from JR Kofu Station.
Top Things to See at Kofu Castle Ruins (Maizuru Castle Park)
1. The Beauty of the Grand Stone Walls
Kofu Castle’s stone walls are valuable remains that convey the high level of castle-building techniques of the time.
A key feature is that you can see multiple masonry methods, including nozura-zumi (rough stacking using natural stones) and kirikomi-hagi (tight-fitting cut-stone masonry).
The stone walls of the tenshudai are especially impressive in both height and scale, and the “Kyōdai-ishi (Twin Stones),” where a single stone was split and stacked to the left and right, is another highlight.
2. Reconstructed Inari Yagura and Kurogane-mon Gate
Inari Yagura is a wooden structure reconstructed in 2004 (Heisei 16) and is open to the public inside as an exhibition room.
You can view roof tiles and ceramics excavated in archaeological surveys, as well as a miniature model of Kofu Castle.
The reconstructed Kurogane-mon Gate has an imposing presence and is a popular photo spot that evokes the castle’s former grandeur.
Both can be visited free of charge.
3. A 360-Degree Panorama from the Tenshudai
From the tenshudai at the highest point of Maizuru Castle Park, you can overlook the entire Kofu Basin.
On clear days, Mt. Fuji appears to the south and the Southern Alps to the west, and in winter’s crisp air the view can be breathtakingly beautiful.
Don’t miss the Kofu Basin tinted orange at dusk, either.
4. Seasonal Scenery
- Spring (late Mar–early Apr): About 160 cherry trees color the entire park, and the pairing of stone walls and sakura draws crowds as a beautiful hanami spot.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Lush trees envelop the park, making it ideal for a stroll.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov): Fall foliage vividly colors the stone walls and park scenery.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): With clear air, it’s the best season to enjoy Mt. Fuji views from the tenshudai.
5. Night Illuminations
Maizuru Castle Park is sometimes illuminated at night, with the stone walls and Kurogane-mon Gate lit in a magical glow.
Illuminations during cherry blossom season are especially unmissable, offering a dreamlike scene of night sakura and stone walls.
Admission Fee and Opening Hours
Admission to Maizuru Castle Park is free.
Visiting inside Inari Yagura and Kurogane-mon Gate is also free, and opening hours are 9:00–16:30 (last entry at 16:00).
They are closed on Mondays (open if Monday is a public holiday), the day after public holidays, and during the year-end/New Year period.
The park itself is open at all times, but note that there is limited lighting on stone steps at night.
Access Information
Address
1-5-4 Marunouchi, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
How to Get There
- Train
- About a 3-minute walk from the south exit of JR Kofu Station.
- The Kofu City History Park, where Yamanote Gomon Gate is located, is about a 3-minute walk from the north exit of JR Kofu Station.
- By car
- About 15 minutes from Kofu-Shōwa IC on the Chūō Expressway.
Parking
As dedicated parking at Maizuru Castle Park is limited, using coin parking around Kofu Station is the main option.
Recommended Ways to Enjoy Kofu Castle Ruins
1. History Walks and Stone Wall Viewing
Walk around the stone walls and reconstructed gates and turrets to feel Kofu Castle’s history.
Information boards are installed throughout the park, allowing you to learn about the ruins as you explore.
You can also use free guidance by volunteer tourism guides (look for the red wear).
2. Cherry Blossom Viewing and Picnics
In spring, you can enjoy hanami within the park.
Relaxing with a picnic in the spacious lawn area is also recommended.
3. Photography from the Tenshudai
The views from the tenshudai are photogenic in every direction.
Sunrise and sunset, as well as Mt. Fuji photography in winter’s crisp air, are especially recommended.
Practical Tips for Travelers
What to Bring and What to Wear
- Comfortable shoes: As there are stone steps and slopes, sneakers are suitable.
- Camera: Essential for photographing historic scenery and the views from the tenshudai.
- Warm layers: The Kofu Basin is hot in summer and cold in winter. Prepare warm clothing if visiting in winter.
Things to Note
- Protect cultural heritage: The ruins are protected as a nationally designated historic site. Avoid climbing on or damaging the stone walls.
- Crowds: Cherry blossom season and events can be busy, so consider visiting early in the day.
- How long to stay: Plan about 30–60 minutes for Maizuru Castle Park; about 60–90 minutes if you also include Kofu City History Park (Yamanote Gomon Gate).
Kofu Castle Ruins (Maizuru Castle Park) is an appealing sightseeing spot where history and nature come together, and it’s easy to visit thanks to its location near the station.
Enjoy the superb views from the tenshudai and the beauty of each season—come and experience it for yourself!
