Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan's three famous castles, featuring both the main and small towers side by side. Constructed by Katō Kiyomasa over a period of six to seven years starting in 1601, its magnificent and grand structure is truly impressive. The castle grounds are vast, extending 5.3 kilometers around and covering a total area of 98 hectares, housing a huge fortress that includes the main towers, 49 turrets, 18 turret gates, and 29 castle gates.

During the Satsuma Rebellion in 1877, the castle was besieged for over 50 days, showcasing its incredible defensibility. However, just before the outbreak of the conflict, a fire destroyed the main tower and the honmaru palace. It was rebuilt in 1960 using reinforced concrete, acquiring its current appearance.

The distinctive stone walls, known as "musha-gaeshi," were designed to thwart enemy invasions. The honmaru palace consists of multifunctional buildings and was restored in 2008. Within Kumamoto Castle, there are various facilities, such as an art museum and plaza, that families can enjoy, and in spring, 800 cherry trees bloom beautifully.

Currently, restoration work is ongoing at Kumamoto Castle, and a "special exhibition of Kumamoto Castle" is being held, allowing for public access to the interiors of the towers. From the observation lobby, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the castle, and the beautifully illuminated Kumamoto Castle at night offers a stunning sight. Kumamoto Castle is an important tourist destination symbolizing Japan's history and culture, and its majestic presence and historical significance make it well worth a visit.

Basic Information

Spot Name
Kumamoto Castle
Location
〒860-0002 1-1 Honmaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan 
Access
<Accessibility to Ninomaru Plaza>
■ From Sakuramachi Bus Terminal:
- About 10 minutes by Kumamoto Castle Loop Bus "Shiromegurin." Get off at Kumamoto Castle Ninomaru Parking Lot, which is right there.
- About 15 minutes on foot via Sakurano Baba Josaien. (There is a free shuttle bus from Sakurano Baba Josaien to Ninomaru Parking Lot.)
■ From JR Kumamoto Station:
- About 30 minutes by Kumamoto Castle Loop Bus "Shiromegurin." Get off at Kumamoto Castle Ninomaru Parking Lot, which is right there.
- About 20 minutes by streetcar (Line A to Kengunmachi) from Kumamoto Station front tram stop. Get off at Kumamoto City Hall, then about 15 minutes on foot via Sakurano Baba Josaien.
Parking
There is a paid parking lot available (for details, please check the official Kumamoto Castle website).
Business Hours
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM)
Fees
High school students and above: 800 yen
Elementary and middle school students: 300 yen
Preschool children: Free
Contact Information
Phone Number:096-223-5011
Official Website

Map

Kumamoto Castle Movies

熊本城の見どころ
【熊本グルメ】2泊3日熊本うまいモンめぐり旅/熊本城
【熊本観光】熊本旅行におすすめの観光スポット&グルメをご紹介します!
【熊本県熊本市】熊本旅行モデルコース、ここに行けば間違いなし!!「熊本城」「水前寺公園」、馬刺しや太平燕などの熊本グルメを堪能
【熊本】熊本市ひとり旅〜熊本観光!絶品グルメと必見スポットまとめ✨モデルコース〜
【熊本観光】熊本観光で絶対に行きたい王道&定番の人気スポット
【行ってみたいお城!熊本城の歴史】行ってみたいお城第4位!重要文化財~熊本城の歴史~
阿蘇山〜熊本城【観光】 IN 熊本県
Kumamoto Tourist Attractions
View List
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