Park • 2-chōme-14-1 Gōtokuji, Setagaya City, Tokyo 154-0021, Japan
Setagaya Shiroato Park, located in the heart of Setagaya Ward, was once part of Setagaya Castle. This small park still retains historical traces.
Strolling through the park, you can catch a glimpse of the former castle walls. The steep stone walls and empty moats remain, inviting visitors to imagine Setagaya Castle from the 14th century. It's like a little adventure to walk along the undulating path, which is rarely experienced in daily life.
Explanatory boards are set up next to the stone walls. By reading detailed explanations, you can imagine what the castle was like in the past. In a space isolated from daily life, you can spend precious time immersed in the spirit of the ancient samurai.
The collaboration with the adjoining Gotoku-ji Temple is also appealing. While unable to pass through the temple's main gate, there are still places where you can overlook the temple grounds and the main hall, allowing you to reflect on the history of Setagaya. The Setagaya Archives and History Museum is also nearby, providing a good opportunity to learn about the local culture.
Setagaya Shiroato Park may be small, but it encapsulates the history of Setagaya. With new discoveries at every step, it sparks a sense of adventure. When visited along with surrounding facilities, it should make for a wonderful day to fully experience the charms of Setagaya.