Inuyama City

Just half an hour from Nagoya is Inuyama, an ancient town once one of the most important domains of the ruling Oda clan. It is especially renowned for its stunning castle that overlooks the Kiso River, a popular spot for viewing cherry blossoms in spring and the turning of the leaves in autumn. But the town has so much more to recommend it. Inuyama Castle However, no review of Inuyama can be completed without referencing Inuyama-jo. As well as being one of only 12 Japanese castles remaining from the Edo period, it is one of just four castles designated national treasures. It is claimed that, with its construction in 1440, it is the oldest castle in the country. The building itself, which had once been under the rule of Oda Nobuyasu (the uncle of the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga), is made of wood. The internal plans give the authentic layout of an old Japanese castle right down to the steep, polished wooden stairs, which can be a little treacherous in your bare feet. Volunteers can provide tours in English upon request. Where: Kitakoken-65-2 Inuyama (map) Website: inuyama-castle.jp Inuyama Old Town Jokomachi, as the old town is also known, leads down from the…