Kumamoto Castle
Kumamoto Castle suffered extensive damage in the 2016 Earthquake. The Castle is under reconstruction and although the castle itself is not open, some of the grounds and viewing areas are currently open. See below for further details about planned castle unveiling.
Kato Kiyomasa directed the building of Kumamoto Castle in 1601-1607. Kumamoto is Japan’s third largest castle after Osaka Castle and Nagoya Castle.
Kato was acclaimed. as a master architect and the Kumamoto castle is fitted with multiple defences, including portholes for dropping stones and other missiles onto attachers below, archery holes and false walls. Kumamoto Castle has never been successfully attacked.
Kumamoto castle has extensive grounds that cover 98ha and a circumference of 5.3km! Throughout the grounds are extensive walls, gates, turrets, moats and storehouses.
The extravagant Golden Honmaru Goten Palace was reconstructed and opened in 2008, although smaller then the original palace, it houses intricate awe-inspiring artworks.
Kumamoto Castle Grand Unveiling
Kumamoto Castle is still under restoration after the 2016 earthquakes, however, the reopening of the castle or “Grand Unveiling’ is planned in three stages, with stage 1 already open.
Stage 1. Viewing areas – Open from October 2019
Stage 2. Specially designed observation pathway – Opening on 29th April 2020.
Stage 3. Completion of the Tenshukaku reconstruction and opening of the interior – scheduled for Spring 2021.
For up to date information on the unveiling and maps check out the official Kumamoto Castle Grand Unveiling Website.
Tickets
Currently the viewing areas are only open on Sundays and National Public Holidays. For up to date ticket information, prices and opening times, check out the official Kumamoto Castle Website.
How to get here
From JR Kumamoto Station catch the Kumamoto Castle Loop Bus (Shiromegurin)
Operates from 9am to 5pm daily leaving every 15-20 minutes
Need more info?
Kumamoto Castle official site.
Japan Visitor
Japan Guide Kumamoto Castle
Japan Guide blog article with pictures of the damage to the castle and reconstruction.
