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.
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
