The castle grounds are now a tree filled park, and a popular cherry blossom and wisteria viewing spot in spring. Entry is via the grand Otemon gate. The remaining rough-hewn stone walls are most impressive, their original harsh function as protector of the fortress now softened by the moss and ferns covering them.

Within the grounds are statues of Ieyasu and his loyal retainer Honda Tadakatsu. Japan’s oldest municipal Noh theatre, various shrines, small eateries, the well from which Lord Ieyasu’s first bath was drawn, even a monument to the Alamo can be found. Why? Well, you’ll have to go see for yourself!

Another attraction well worth seeing is the Iyeyasu and Mikawa Bushi (Warrior) Museum, dedicated to Ieyasu’s brave warriors. You might see the Great Ieyasu Aoi Busho Tai, performing samurai team wandering the grounds in full armor, or putting on an open-air show.
The main attraction however is the castle keep. The 2nd, 3rd and 4th floors are a fascinating museum of samurai armor, weapons, and items of daily use, explanations of local history and cultural exhibits, while the 5th floor observatory offers a panoramic view of the Mikawa region.

Apart from Tokugawa Ieyasu and the castle, Okazaki is famous for its annual Fireworks Festival, when an amazing 30,000 fireworks are exploded in the night sky from the castle grounds.
Okazaki Castle, as the birthplace of a national hero, and the Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, is a must see!