Kōfu Castle, now Maizuru Castle Park, is a scenic ruin next to Kōfu Station, built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi as a strategic stronghold against the Tokugawa clan. It is worth visiting because the preserved original stone walls are a striking historical exhibit, and the high vantage points, especially from the former keep base, offer an unparalleled panoramic view of the Kōfu Basin and a clear view of Mount Fuji in the distance. The park is also famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
Kōfu Castle (Maizuru Castle Park) features several notable recent reconstructions based on historical records:
Inari-yagura Turret: This elegant, two-story wooden watchtower is a major symbol of the castle. It houses a small, free museum displaying artifacts and information about the castle's history.
Kurogane Gate: A large, imposing two-story turret gate, historically critical for defense, which you can walk through. Its name means "Iron Gate," reflecting the iron plating on its doors.
Kaji Kuruwa Gate and Yamanote Gomon Gate: Other restored entry structures that demonstrate the sophisticated defensive design of the Edo period.
The site also includes a tranquil Japanese Garden near the main entrance that complements the historical atmosphere, offering a calm area for a stroll amid the impressive stone walls. The park as a whole is an urban oasis, especially when its 160 cherry trees bloom in spring.