Historical landmark • 1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0001, Japan
Serving as a critical entrance to the historic Edo Castle, Hirakawamon Gate exudes an aura of past grandeur even today. Known as the closest entryway to the main enclosure, this gate is a rare site where one can truly experience the history and culture of the Edo period.
Hirakawamon Gate was also known as the “Otsukaemon”. This name comes from its frequent use by the women of the Ōoku. Kasuga no Tsubone, a noted wet nurse of the third shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu, is said to have used this gate. An interesting tale tells of an incident where she was locked out after curfew, forced to spend a chilly night outside.
The structure of Hirakawamon Gate played a role in the defensive system of Edo Castle. Adopting a square compound design, it was constructed to deter enemy entry. Inside the gate, a smaller portal known as