Okazaki: The Birthplace of Japan’s Most Famous Shogun

Aichi Prefecture , Japan

Okazaki: The Birthplace of Japan’s Most Famous Shogun

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About this experience

Discover the rich heritage of Okazaki, the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu, a pivotal figure in Japanese history and the SHOGUN era. Begin your journey at the Mikawa Bushi no Yakata Ieyasu-kan Museum, where engaging exhibits unveil Ieyasu’s life story from a political hostage to Japan’s unifier. Continue to Okazaki Castle, built on the very site of his birth, where you'll learn about the daily lives of samurai and commoners during the Edo period. This tour is perfect for history buffs and anyone intrigued by Japan's samurai legacy, providing a captivating introduction to the significance of SHOGUNs in shaping the nation.

- Visit the Mikawa Bushi no Yakata Ieyasu-kan Museum for immersive exhibits
- Explore Okazaki Castle, the birthplace of Tokugawa Ieyasu
- Gain insights into the samurai culture and historical significance of the region
- Ideal for history enthusiasts and those curious about Japan's SHOGUN era

Available options

Okazaki: The Birthplace of Japan’s Most Famous Shogun

What's included

Learn about samurai culture

Visit to Okazaki Castle

Visit to Mikawa Bushi no Yakata Ieyasu-kan Museum

Guide

Entrance Fee

Detailed itinerary

The Mikawa Bushi no Yakata Ieyasu-kan Museum introduces visitors to the samurai culture of Mikawa Province that shaped Tokugawa Ieyasu, the historical SHOGUN who founded Japan’s longest-lasting shogunate. Through clear and engaging exhibits, the museum traces the eight-generation history of the Matsudaira clan and follows Ieyasu’s life from his childhood as a political hostage to his rise as the unifier of Japan. Displays explain the disciplined, pragmatic values of the Mikawa samurai, the political system Ieyasu later established, and his transformation after death into the deified figure Tōshō Daigongen. This museum provides essential context for understanding how the world of SHOGUN emerged from real people, places, and historical events.

Okazaki Castle stands on the site where Tokugawa Ieyasu was born in 1543, making it one of the most important locations connected to the origin of the SHOGUN. The castle played a central role in the early life of Ieyasu and the development of the Okazaki Domain in Mikawa Province. Inside the reconstructed castle keep, visitors learn about the structure of a feudal castle town, the governance of samurai domains, and the daily lives of both warriors and common people. From the castle, the story of Okazaki is revealed not as a peripheral regional history, but as the true starting point of the Tokugawa era and the long peace that followed.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet in front of the Otemon Gate of Okazaki Castle. Your guide will be waiting with a yellow sign. Please refer to the map for details.

About Aichi Prefecture

Aichi Prefecture, located in the Chubu region of Japan, is a dynamic blend of cutting-edge technology and rich cultural heritage. Home to Nagoya, a bustling metropolis, and scenic rural areas, Aichi offers a diverse travel experience from historical landmarks to modern innovations and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Nagoya Castle

A historic castle that served as the seat of power for the Tokugawa clan. The castle has been reconstructed and now houses a museum.

Historical 2-3 hours ¥500

Atsuta Shrine

One of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, home to the sacred sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of the three imperial regalia of Japan.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (Treasure Museum: ¥300)

Legoland Japan

A popular theme park featuring Lego-themed rides, shows, and attractions, perfect for families with children.

Entertainment Full day ¥5,800-¥7,800

Nagoya Port Aquarium

One of the largest aquariums in Japan, featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥2,200

Tokugawa Art Museum

A museum housing a vast collection of art and artifacts from the Tokugawa era, providing insights into Japan's feudal history.

Museum 1-2 hours ¥600

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hitsumabushi

Grilled eel served over rice, often topped with condiments like nori (seaweed) and green onions.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and seafood

Miso Katsu

Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet topped with a rich miso sauce, served with rice and miso soup.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork and wheat

Taiwan Ramen

A Nagoya specialty, this ramen features a rich, spicy broth with ingredients like garlic, butter, and miso.

Dinner/Snack Contains wheat, soy, and sometimes pork

Kishimen

Flat, thick noodles served in a savory broth, often topped with green onions and kamaboko (fish cake).

Lunch/Dinner Contains wheat and sometimes fish

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Japanese Alps Paragliding in the surrounding areas Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional crafts workshops Temple and shrine visits Boat tours on the Nagara River Skiing and snowboarding in nearby resorts

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. These seasons have comfortable temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Aichi is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, travelers should still exercise common sense and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance, especially in tourist areas.

Getting there

By air

Chubu Centrair International Airport • 35 km from Nagoya
Nagoya Airport • 35 km from Nagoya

By train

Nagoya Station

By bus

Nagoya Station Bus Terminal, Sakae Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient and easy to use, with multiple lines connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sakae Nakamura Kanayama

Day trips

Inuyama

20 km from Nagoya • Half day to full day

A charming town known for its castle, temples, and traditional crafts. Inuyama offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.

Gifu

30 km from Nagoya • Full day

A city rich in history and culture, known for its castle, temples, and traditional crafts. Gifu offers a variety of cultural experiences.

Shirakawa-go

100 km from Nagoya • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional thatched-roof farmhouses and beautiful landscapes. Shirakawa-go offers a unique cultural experience.

Festivals

Nagoya Matsuri • Early October Atsuta Matsuri • June 5th Owari Tsukemono Festival • Mid-November

Pro tips

Use an IC card (e.g., Manaca card) for seamless payments on public transport and at convenience stores.
Download a navigation app like Google Maps or Japan Travel by Navitime to help you get around the city.
Try local specialties like Hitsumabushi, Miso Katsu, and Taiwan Ramen for an authentic Nagoya experience.
Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Be mindful of cultural norms and customs, and always follow proper etiquette when visiting religious sites or traditional buildings.