Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto-jo

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A renowned castle built by Kiyomasa Kato. The reconstructed castle keep, stone walls, and Honmaru Goten (palace) are breathtaking. Enjoy local cuisine and souvenirs at Josaien.

Castle
Historic Sites

HighlightsPanoramic view from the Reconstructed Castle Keep
Musha-gaeshi Stone Walls
Luxurious Honmaru Goten (Palace)
Learn about the Castle's History at the History Museum
Enjoy Local Cuisine at Josaien

Basic Information

Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Kumamoto

Access: 10-minute walk from the City Hall tram stop or Sakuramachi Bus Terminal Show route

Op.Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM

Cld.Days: December 29th to 31st

Fee: Adults: 800 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students: 300 yen

INFO: The castle keep is equipped with an elevator, making it barrier-free. Multilingual signage and audio guides are available.

HP: https://kumamoto-guide.jp/kumamoto-castle/

Overview

Kumamoto Castle began as Chiba Castle, built in the late 1400s during the Muromachi period. It was expanded and renovated throughout the Edo period, and its name was changed to Kumamoto Castle in 1607. Constructed by Kiyomasa Kato, it was known as a practically impregnable military structure. The distinctive 'Musha-gaeshi' stone walls were designed to prevent enemy invasion, and their craftsmanship still amazes modern architects. While suffering extensive damage in the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, the restoration of the castle keep was completed in 2021. Restoration work is still underway, and visitors can witness this process. Full restoration is expected by 2052. Kumamoto Castle is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a place where you can feel Kumamoto's history, culture, and strong will to rebuild.

Kumamoto Castle

Highlights

Basic Information

Overview

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