Inohana Castle (Chiba Castle) - Travel Information

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Chiba Castle, also known as Inohana Castle, is a small reconstructed castle located in central Chiba City, about 40 minutes from central Tokyo. The castle stands as a local historical symbol tied to the influential Chiba clan, who controlled the region from the late Heian period through the Kamakura period.

The original fortification was established in the 12th century by the Chiba clan, one of the early samurai families to gain power in eastern Japan. The castle site later lost its military significance and was abandoned in the 15th century, and fell into ruin. In 1967, a five-story concrete castle keep was constructed on the site, not intended as a historical replica, but as a cultural monument and to house the Chiba City Folk Musuem.

The Chiba City Folk Museum has exhibits featuring the history of the Chiba clan, local samurai culture, and the development of Chiba City. Although the building is not entirely faithful to the castle’s original form, its traditional design and elevated setting provide scenic views of the city from the upper floors.

The surrounding Inohana Park is popular with locals, especially in spring, when cherry blossoms bloom along the walking paths. Statues and monuments dedicated to historical figures can also be found throughout the park.

🏯 Chiba Castle, also called Inohana Castle, is a reconstructed site in central Chiba City.
🚃 It’s located about 40 minutes from central Tokyo, making it an easy side trip.
🛡️ The castle is linked to the powerful Chiba clan, active from the late Heian to Kamakura period.
🏗️ Originally built in the 12th century, the castle eventually fell into ruin.
🧱 In 1967, a five-story concrete keep was constructed as a cultural monument.
🏛️ It houses the Chiba City Folk Museum, showcasing samurai culture and local history.
📜 Exhibits focus on the Chiba clan, samurai life, and the evolution of Chiba City.
🌇 The top floor offers panoramic views of Chiba’s skyline and surrounding areas.
🌸 Inohana Park, which surrounds the castle, is a local favorite for cherry blossom viewing.
🗿 You’ll also find statues and monuments honoring historical figures throughout the park.

Chiba City Folk Museum is temporarily closed The museum will be closed from September 30, 2024 to the end of October, 2025 (scheduled) for exhibition renewal. Inohana Park remains open and you can still view the castle from the park.

Hours and Admission (Chiba City Folk Museum)

Accessing Chiba Castle

Chiba Castle, or Inohana Castle, can be found just 40 minutes outside of central Tokyo, and only a few minutes on the train from Chiba Station.

From Chiba Station, take the Uchibo Line or Sotobo Line to Hon-Chiba Station, just one stop along the line. This journey will cost 150 JPY (Free with the JR Pass), and take 2 minutes. From Hon Chiba Station, exit the east exit, and walk straight to Inohana Park.

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