Tomioka Castle

Tomioka Castle is a Japanese castle on a peninsula in Kumamoto Prefecture, connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. The site features stone walls, gates, and watchtowers from the Edo Period.

Terazawa Hirotaka built the castle between 1602 and 1605 as a reward for his service in the Battle of Sekigahara. During the Shimabara Rebellion in 1637, the site came under attack from Christian rebels but was successfully defended.

The remaining stone walls and towers display the construction methods that were typical during the Edo Period for Japanese castles. Visitors can observe these architectural details directly while exploring the site.

The castle is easily accessible on foot, with free entry to the ruins and visitor center. The best time to visit is during dry weather, when the pathways are safer and clearer.

The castle was deliberately placed on an isolated peninsula to make attacks difficult and maintain control over the surrounding region. This strategic positioning made it one of the hardest fortifications to reach during its era.

GPS coordinates: 32.52890,130.03200

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:51