This is an admission ticket to the castle tower of Tsurugajo Castle, the symbol of Aizu-Wakamatsu, famous as an impregnable fortress that withstood a month-long siege during the Boshin War at the end of the samurai era. The interior has been renewed into a hands-on "Cultural Tourism Information Castle" utilizing digital technology. From the salt cellar to the 5th floor, visitors can experience the history, successive lords, and the turbulent end of the Edo period through all five senses. The top floor offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Aizu, where you can overlay Edo-period scenery with the modern cityscape using your smartphone.
Japan's Only "Red-Tiled" Castle Tower: Admire the unique exterior featuring distinct reddish-brown roof tiles, specially developed to endure harsh winters—the only one of its kind remaining in Japan.
・Experience Last Samurai History: Immerse yourself in the proud history of the Aizu Clan, who fought fiercely during the Boshin War, brought to life through cutting-edge digital technology, VR, and an immersive theater.
・Time-Traveling 360° Views: Gaze out over the entire Aizu Basin from the top floor, and use AR technology on your smartphone to overlay historic Edo-period views onto the modern landscape.
Originating from a manor built in 1384, the renowned warlord Gamo Ujisato later built Eastern Japan's first authentic castle tower and named it "Tsurugajo." It became legendary as an "impregnable fortress" after enduring a month-long fierce siege by the imperial forces during the Boshin War (1868). Though demolished in the Meiji era, it was faithfully reconstructed. Today, it stands as the only castle in Japan adorned with the historic "red tiles," symbolizing the enduring samurai spirit of Aizu.
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM).
・Closed: Open year-round.