Karatsu Castle
Karatsu Castle is a historic castle located in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, Japan. This castle was built by Terasawa Shimanokami Hirotaka, a retainer of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It took seven years to complete, starting from the 7th year of the Keicho era (1602), and subsequently became the center of the Karatsu Domain.
Karatsu Castle was constructed on a land-connected island called Mantouzan, making it a fortress surrounded on three sides by the sea and rivers. Within the castle, stone walls and moats were established, creating a strong defensive system. A magnificent donjon stands within the castle, and from its observation deck, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the Genkai Sea and the picturesque Niji no Matsubara.
The current Karatsu Castle was built in 1966 as a cultural tourism facility and is now utilized as a local history museum. Inside the castle, visitors can view valuable materials and exhibits related to the history and culture of the Karatsu Domain, and gain insights into local culture, such as Karatsu pottery.
Surrounding Karatsu Castle is Maizuru Park, which is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and wisteria flowers, making it a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing). Additionally, the castle is illuminated at night, providing a striking view.
Karatsu Castle combines historical value and beauty, and is cherished as a symbol of Karatsu City. It is worth visiting for its exhibits and scenic landscapes, as well as for experiencing the local history and culture.
Karatsu Castle was constructed on a land-connected island called Mantouzan, making it a fortress surrounded on three sides by the sea and rivers. Within the castle, stone walls and moats were established, creating a strong defensive system. A magnificent donjon stands within the castle, and from its observation deck, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the Genkai Sea and the picturesque Niji no Matsubara.
The current Karatsu Castle was built in 1966 as a cultural tourism facility and is now utilized as a local history museum. Inside the castle, visitors can view valuable materials and exhibits related to the history and culture of the Karatsu Domain, and gain insights into local culture, such as Karatsu pottery.
Surrounding Karatsu Castle is Maizuru Park, which is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and wisteria flowers, making it a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing). Additionally, the castle is illuminated at night, providing a striking view.
Karatsu Castle combines historical value and beauty, and is cherished as a symbol of Karatsu City. It is worth visiting for its exhibits and scenic landscapes, as well as for experiencing the local history and culture.
Basic Information
- Spot Name
- Karatsu Castle
- Location
- 〒847-0016 8-1 Higashijōnai, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture
- Access
- ■ By Car
7 minutes from JR Karatsu Station
■ On Foot
20 minutes from JR Karatsu Station - Parking
- Tojo Castle Parking Lot
- Regular vehicles: 190 spaces
1 hour or less: 100 yen
1 to 2 hours: 300 yen
More than 2 hours: 400 yen
(Nighttime rate is a flat 300 yen)
- Large vehicles: 5 spaces
1 hour or less: 400 yen
1 to 2 hours: 900 yen
More than 2 hours: 1300 yen
(Nighttime rate is a flat 1000 yen)
Motorcycle parking lot
Capacity: 25 spaces
Rate: Free - Business Hours
- 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:40 PM)
*Opening hours may change depending on the season. - Regular Holiday
- December 29 to December 31
- Fees
- General admission: 500 yen
Elementary and junior high school students: 250 yen
Preschool children: Free
*Group discount: 20 or more persons, 20% off - Contact Information
- Phone Number： 0955-72-5697
- Official Website
