- TOP
- Interests
- Culture & History
- Castles
- Kochi Castle
Kochi Castle
The only castle in Japan that retains the keep from when it was constructed
- Closest station
Kochi Station, JR Dosan Line
- Access
From Kochi Station, JR Dosan Line, take the bus for around 10 minutes, get off at Kochijo-mae bus stop, or walk for around 25 minutes from the station.
- Location
1-2-1 Marunouchi, Kochi City
- Opening hours
Kochi Castle Keep / Kaitoku-kan, etc., 9:00–17:00 (last admittance at 16:30)
*The opening hours may be extended during such times as the Golden Week holiday period or the Yosakoi Festival season.
- Closed
December 26 – January 1
- Price
420 yen for individuals over 18 years-old, 340 yen per person for groups (20 people and over), free for under 18-year-olds
*It is free to enter Kochi Park regardless of the time.
Great Stuff to See and Do!
A famous castle where you can enjoy over 400 years of history
Construction of Kochi Castle began in 1601, and now it is a historic structure in central Kochi. It has been chosen as one of Japan’s 100 famous castles. Also, It is one of the 12 castle towers that remain unchanged from the time it was constructed and the only one with an original keep, making it a valuable and unique castle. The buildings, including the three-layer and six-floor castle tower and Otemon Gate, have been classified as Important Cultural Properties. The stone walls, which incorporate architecture to defend against enemy attack, are just one of the features to enjoy.
A stroll through the seasonally blooming flowers and trees is also recommended
Kochi Castle also features flowers and trees that evoke the feelings of the seasons of Japan, including the plum, peach, and cherry blossoms in spring, the hydrangeas and lotus flowers in summer, the maple leaves in fall, and the camellias in winter. Visitors can enjoy beautiful colors all year round. Also, as it is located on a hill overlooking Kochi’s urban areas, you can enjoy the view from the castle tower.