Tokugawa Ieyasu was born in the castle's Ninomaru Palace in 1543.
The castle is nicknamed 'Ryujo-jo' or 'Dragon Castle' due to the appearance of the structure among the morning mists.
The stone walls of the castle were built using the 'Nozura-zumi' method, which utilizes unhewn stones stacked without mortar.
The castle grounds contain a small shrine, Tatsuki Shrine, where Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined as a deity.
The original castle was established in the 15th century by Saigo Yoritsugu before being taken over by the Matsudaira clan.
A well located near the castle keep is said to be where Tokugawa Ieyasu's umbilical cord was washed after his birth.
Okazaki Castle is the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled Japan for over 250 years. The current structure is a 1959 reinforced concrete reconstruction of the original castle, which was dismantled in 1873. The interior serves as a historical museum focusing on Ieyasu's life and the history of the castle under the Okazaki domain. Exhibits include samurai armor, weapons, and dioramas depicting Edo-period life. The site is situated within Okazaki Park, which is recognized as one of Japan's top 100 cherry blossom spots. The castle keep provides panoramic views of the city of Okazaki and the Yahagi River. A statue of Tokugawa Ieyasu stands prominently within the park grounds near the castle foundation. The stone walls remaining on the site are original remnants from the Edo period construction.
From the south side of the Oto River bridge looking toward the castle, especially during cherry blossom season.
Visit the 'Ieyasu and Mikawa Bushi Museum' located next to the castle for a more in-depth look at samurai culture.
Check the event schedule for performances by the 'Aoi Bushotai,' a samurai performance troupe that appears on weekends.
Spend time walking the entirety of Okazaki Park, as the castle is only one part of a larger historical complex.
Do not mistake the modern reconstruction for an original wooden keep; it is a museum-focused facility.
Closed annually for a few days at the end of December.
Remove hats and remain quiet inside the museum areas; food and drink are prohibited inside the castle keep.
