Kakegawa Castle Live Cam

Feudal Origins and Strategic Significance

Perched atop a modest hill in central Shizuoka Prefecture, Kakegawa Castle exemplifies classical Japanese castle architecture with its elegant tenshu (keep) and sprawling defensive baileys. Constructed in 1513 by Asahina Yasutomo during the Sengoku period, the castle served as a pivotal stronghold along the Tōkaidō trade route, controlling movement between the powerful provinces of Mikawa and Suruga. Its location on a natural rise provided commanding views of the surrounding plains, allowing garrison forces to monitor both river traffic along the Ōi River and overland convoys traversing the ancient highway.