Kumamoto Castle, Castle in Chūō-ku, Kumamoto, Japan
Kumamoto Castle is a feudal castle in the Chūō-ku district of Kumamoto City, Japan, built on a low hill and made up of wide courtyards, defensive stone walls, and several multistory towers. The main keep stands at the highest point of the compound, with paved paths running between gates, auxiliary towers, and open plazas at different elevations.
The warlord Kato Kiyomasa began construction in the early 17th century, replacing an older fortress with a far larger and more fortified complex. Much of the site was destroyed during a samurai uprising in the 19th century, and reconstruction work has continued across different periods ever since.
The castle grounds draw large crowds during cherry blossom season, when visitors spread blankets under the trees and spend hours outdoors. In summer and autumn, festivals take over the outer courtyards, with performers in period dress and traditional music filling the air.
The towers can be entered and explored inside, but the staircases are steep and wooden, and some passages have low ceilings, so comfortable shoes are a good idea. The grounds cover a large area, and walking the full circuit from the outer gates to the main keep takes a good part of the day.
Ginkgo trees were deliberately planted within the walls to provide food during sieges, since their seeds are edible. Several of these trees are still standing on the grounds today and are among the oldest living things on the site.
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