Okazaki Castle is classified as a hilltop castle (its layout: Teikakushiki), and is located in Aichi Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Mikawa Province. It is associated with the Honda, Mizuno clans. Dates in use: 1531 - 1873.

Yes, it is a concrete reconstruction but it is a site of some significance as it was the birthplace of one of Japan's most well-known historical figures, Matsudaira Takechiyo, better known to the world as Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Remaining today are sections of stonework & moat. As at early 2010, a turret had been rebuilt. And, as described to me by David LaSpina (who I thank for use of these photos) the turret sits in the middle of the car park.

Timeline

1455	Fortifications were first built nearby by the Saigō clan.
1531	Matsudaira Kiyoyasu, after gaining control of the area, built a small fort at the castle's present site approximately the size of the main enclosure.
1542	An infant, later to be known as Tokugawa Ieyasu, was born.
1549	The Matsudaira lord of the castle was killed. The castle then became the possession of the Imagawa clan, the young Ieyasu becoming hostage.
1560	The Battle of Okehazama. Following Imagawa Yoshimoto's death, Ieyasu gained possession of the castle.
1570	Ieyasu moved his headquarters to Hamamatsu Castle.
1590	The castle was once again improved with the incorporation of stone-clad walls. The castle town was also developed.
1617	A three-story main tower was built.
1873	The castle was decommissioned.
1874	The buildings were demolished.
1959	The several buildings of the main enclosure were rebuilt using concrete.
1993	The Omote Gate was rebuilt.
2007	Further excavations were completed.
2010	The Higashi-sumi Turret was rebuilt using traditional materials & methods.