Kumamoto Castle

The castle extends over 1.6 kilometers from east to west and 1.2 kilometers from north to south, featuring a main keep reaching 30.3 meters in height.

Kato Kiyomasa transformed the initial fortifications between 1601 and 1607, creating a complex system of turrets and gates that withstood numerous conflicts.

The castle represents Japanese military engineering with curved stone walls called musha-gaeshi, purposefully designed to prevent intruders from scaling the fortification.

Visitors can explore thirteen structures designated as Important Cultural Properties, including the reconstructed main tower that reopened to the public in 2021.

The castle endured the 2016 earthquakes with minimal structural damage to its main keep, demonstrating the effectiveness of its construction techniques.

Location: Chūō-ku

Inception: 1601

Founders: Katō Kiyomasa

Height: 29.5 m

Fee: Yes

Made from material: wood, concrete

Part of: 100 Fine Castles of Japan, Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots

Address: 熊本県熊本市中央区本丸1−1 860-0002 熊本市

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 09:00-17:00; December 29-December 31 off

Phone: +81963525900

Email: kumamotojou@city.kumamoto.lg.jp

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

GPS coordinates: 32.80606,130.70597

Latest update: May 27, 2025 20:46