Kumamoto Castle, located in the heart of Kumamoto City, is a must-see destination for any traveller to the region. Construction of the castle began in the early 1600s and took about 7 years to complete. In April of 2016, Kumamoto was hit by a devastating earthquake, which severely damaged many structures at Kumamoto Castle. After several years, some buildings were able to be reopened to the public, and many more are expected to reopen over the next several decades.
Kumamoto Castle played an essential role through out Japanese history. During the Seinan Civil War (1877), Samurai Saigo Takamori was dissatisfied with the Meiji government and attempted to revolt against the government, amassing an army. As one of Japan’s strongest castles, Kumamoto Castle housed Japanese Imperial Officers during this period of unrest. The siege lasted two months, but thanks to the fortifications of the Castle grounds, the government withstood the attempted siege, ultimately leading to the rebels’ retreat.
The original castle keep was destroyed around this time, and a replica made out of ferro-concreate was constructed in the 1960’s. Today, the castle keep consists of two towers – the main 6-story tower, and a smaller 4-story tower. For the best views of Kumamoto city, be sure to view the city from the main tower.
Kumamoto Castle is also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring, and the grounds come alive with pink and white blossoms. The castle is also lit up at night, providing a beautiful backdrop for photos and a unique perspective of the castle. Within the Kumamoto castle park is over 800 cherry blossom trees, making it one of the best spots to view Cherry blossoms in Kyushu.
Following the 2016 Earthquake, which severely damaged the castle, renovation work has been underway to restore it. The castle keep was recently opened, following being closed for nearly 5 years. Renovation work continues, and some areas of the castle will be inaccessible from time to time; work is expected to conclude in 2042.
Explore Kumamoto
Top Attractions
Okoshiki Beach
Scenic beach with unique sunset views
Takahashi Inari Shrine
Small shrine with torii lined path
Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
Serene forest shrine with lantern lined paths
Kumamoto Castle
Scenic Castle and famous cherry blossom viewing spot
Suizenji Garden
17th Century Garden in Kumamoto
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 9:00am-5:00pm
- 800JPY
- Average Time Spent: 1 Hour
- Official Website
Accessing Kumamoto Castle
The Kumamoto Castle can be reached using the Kumamoto City Trams. From Kumamoto Station, take the A-Line tram to Kumamoto Castle/City Hall Station. This will take approximately 15 minutes costing 170JPY one way. From Kumamoto Castle/City Hall Station, the walk to Kumamoto castle is only 200 metres.
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Where to Stay
Hotel Route-inn Kumamoto Ekimae
Comfortable hotel, conveniently located directly outside of Kumamoto station, making it a great place to use as a base for exploring Kumamoto.
Hotel Nikko Kumamoto
Found in the heart of Kumamoto and mere minutes from Kumamoto Castle.
Candeo Hotels Kumamoto Shinshigai
Modern Japanese Ryokan, with stunning facilities, gorgeous indoor and outdoor onsen and beautiful gardens.