HISTORICAL SITES

·Kunozan--Toshogu Shrine holds the remains of the Shogun Ieyasu, is at the top of Mt. Kuno
·Sengenjinjya --This shrine complex contains three shrines that date back to medieval times
·Ruins of Sumpu Castle--a residence of the Shogun Ieyasu
·Hamamatsu Castle--where the famous shogun spent his youth

Ancient bones found in Mikkabi and the Toro Ruins in Shizuoka city stand as evidence that humans have been attracted to the geography and climate of Shizuoka since the Stone Age. The founder of the Tokugawa Dynasty, the legendary Tokugawa Ieyasu, chose to live in Suruga (now Shizuoka city) which made it the unofficial capital during the 17th century.
Come and visit the castles where samurai warriors once lived and fought. As you roam through the precincts of these faithfully restored and reconstructed castles, you'll think you can hear the clash of swords and armor!

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine -- The shrine at the top of Mt. Kuno (270 meters) was built at the time of the 6th century Emperor Suiko. The visitor who goes to the summit will be rewarded with a panoramic view of Suruga Bay and the Izu Peninsula. Takeda Shingen, a legendary military commander during the Warring States Period, recognized the strong strategic position of this mountain and built a fortress here. Captured by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the castle was destroyed.
Later the Toshogu shrine was built, as Ieyasu had requested in his will, to hold his remains. The shrine, built in the Gongenzukuri style, is a fine example of building techniques that have been practiced since medieval times. Lacquer coating on the detailed decorative woodwork through the structure shows the richness of the designs. The museum at the shrine has on permanent exhibit a collection of swords, armor and documents, and other artifacts belonging to Ieyasu. The shrine, along with its mausoleum, has been designated as an important cultural property. A festival is held here every April 17th. 35 minutes by bus from Shizuoka Station.

Sengenjinja -- The name Sengenjinja comprises three shrines: Kanbe, Asama and Otoshimioya. This shrine has been the center of worship in the Suruga district since the Heian Era (794-1191). The shrine was a treasured place of the Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, who twice oversaw major reconstruction. And expensive undertaking, the present halls of the shrine were constructed from 1804 to 1864. The spacious precincts of the shrine cover 45,000 square meters. All the halls have richly decorated and lacquered designs. The Daihaiden (the great hall of worship) is a well-preserved example of Sengen-style. The 24 halls of the shrine were designated an important cultural property in 1971. From April 1-5 every year, the Hatsukaesai Festival is held here. Come and see children in traditional court performances of dance and music that has remained unchanged since the shrine was originally built. Cherry Blossom Viewing is held here the first two weeks of April

Ruins of Sumpu Castle -- This castle, covering 52,000 square meters, renowned in history for its beauty, was built in 1585 and served as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu who spent the last ten years of his life here. Although the castle towers were destroyed by fire and wars, the stone walls and outer moats remain as a testament to a proud past. Sumpu Castle now serves as a city park.
In 1989, Tatsumiyagura (the southeast tower) was reconstructed to commemorate 100 years of the present city administration. At the inner citadel of the ruin, a statue of Ieyasu stands next to a mikan tree planted by the great shogun himself. These mandarin oranges are harvested annually in December. The reconstruction of the East Gate has recently been completed.
The castle is a 10 minute walk from Shizuoka station.

Hamamatsu Castle --This feudal period castle, located in the middle of modern downtown Hamamatsu, was built by the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1570. Tokugawa spent much of his youth here before going on to become prominent and recognized as an accomplished statesman. Thus the castle is a popular symbol of determination and success. Although the castle itself has been restored from the original, the stone wall, famous for its unusual layered construction, has stood as it stands now since feudal times. The view from the donjon , the topmost parapet, is most beautiful in the cherry blossom season (March/April).
5 minute bus ride or 20 minute walk from Hamamatsu Station.

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