Complete Guide to Kumamoto Castle: History, Highlights, and Reconstruction of Japan’s Three Great Castles
Kumamoto Castle, located in Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most representative castles. Built by Kato Kiyomasa, a renowned castle builder, it is counted as one of Japan’s “Three Great Castles,” alongside Himeji Castle and Matsumoto Castle. Also known as “Ginkgo Castle,” this castle, with a history of over 400 years, suffered significant damage in the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, but restoration work is currently underway, and it is gradually regaining its magnificent appearance.
History and Construction Background of Kumamoto Castle
Construction by Kato Kiyomasa
The history of Kumamoto Castle begins in 1588 with Kato Kiyomasa, who was granted the northern half of Higo Province (present-day northern Kumamoto Prefecture) by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Initially, Kiyomasa Kato resided at Kumamoto Castle, but feeling the need for a stronger fortress, he began construction of a new castle on the Chausuyama plateau in 1591.
Construction was temporarily suspended due to the Bunroku-Keicho War (the Japanese invasions of Korea), but resumed in earnest in 1601 and was finally completed in 1607 (Keicho 12). This castle was built using the most advanced technology of the time and with immense labor, becoming a masterpiece that embodied the pinnacle of Kato Kiyomasa’s castle-building skills.
The Hosokawa Era
In 1632, after the Kato family was dispossessed of their domain, Hosokawa Tadatoshi entered the castle as the lord of Higo Province with a 540,000 koku (unit of rice production) territory. For approximately 240 years thereafter, until the Meiji Restoration, the Hosokawa family used Kumamoto Castle as their residence and governed the Kumamoto Domain. During the Hosokawa era, the castle was maintained and renovated, and it continued to function as the center of the domain’s administration. ### The Satsuma Rebellion and Kumamoto Castle
Kumamoto Castle played a crucial role in the Satsuma Rebellion, which broke out in 1877 (Meiji 10). Besieged by the Satsuma army led by Saigo Takamori, Kumamoto Castle served as a government base, with the government forces fighting a siege for over 50 days. Just before this battle, major such buildings as the keep and the main palace were destroyed by a fire of unknown origin. However, the castle’s strong defensive structures repelled the Satsuma army’s attacks, demonstrating the excellence of Kato Kiyomasa’s castle-building techniques.
Architectural Features of Kumamoto Castle
Warrior-Repelling Stone Walls
One of the most distinctive features of Kumamoto Castle is its stone walls known as “Mushagaeshi” (warrior-repelling). These uniquely curved stone walls, with a gentle slope at the bottom and a steeper gradient towards the top, serve a defensive function that makes enemy intrusion difficult. These stone walls are also called “fan-shaped slopes” and are known as a symbol of Kato Kiyomasa’s castle-building techniques.
The stone walls reach a maximum height of approximately 20 meters, and their beautiful curves are considered a masterpiece of Japanese architecture, combining functionality and artistry.
Structure of the Castle Tower
Kumamoto Castle originally had two castle towers: a large tower and a small tower. The current castle tower is a reinforced concrete reconstruction completed in 1960 (Showa 35). The large tower has six floors above ground and one basement floor, and is approximately 30 meters tall.
The interior houses a museum exhibiting the historical and cultural artifacts of Kumamoto Castle, and the top floor offers an observation deck with panoramic views of Kumamoto city. Its black-based exterior contrasts sharply with the white walls of Himeji Castle, conveying a sense of strength and dignity.
Restoration of the Honmaru Palace
In 2008 (Heisei 20), the Honmaru Palace was faithfully restored to its Edo period appearance. The vast palace, spanning approximately 3,000 square meters, is adorned with magnificent screen paintings and intricate carvings, allowing visitors to experience the living space of a feudal lord of that era. In particular, the “Shokun-no-ma” room, a highly formal room decorated with gold leaf and vibrant colors, was where the feudal lord received important guests.
2016 Kumamoto Earthquake and the Road to Recovery
Damage Caused by the Earthquake
The Kumamoto earthquakes, which occurred on April 14th and 16th, 2016, caused extensive damage to Kumamoto Castle. The castle suffered serious damage throughout, including the collapse of turrets and stone walls designated as important cultural properties, and the falling of roof tiles from the main keep.
In particular, nationally designated important cultural properties such as the East Eighteen-Bay Turret and the North Eighteen-Bay Turret collapsed or were severely damaged, and approximately 30% of the stone walls, or about 80,000 square meters, collapsed. This damage is considered one of the largest in the history of Kumamoto Castle.
Basic Plan for Restoration and Reconstruction
After the earthquake, Kumamoto City formulated the “Kumamoto Castle Restoration Basic Plan” and decided to proceed with restoration in stages over approximately 20 years. The total project cost is estimated at approximately 64 billion yen, and restoration work is progressing with the use of national government support and donations from all over the country.
Restoration work was carried out with priorities, and the restoration of the main keep was given priority. Restoration work on the main keep was completed in October 2019, and the interior was reopened to the public in June 2021. Currently, restoration work on the stone walls and turrets are still ongoing.
Establishment of a Special Public Viewing Route
Even during the restoration work period, Kumamoto Castle is open to tourists as much as possible. A “special viewing route” has been established, allowing visitors to see the construction work up close. From this passageway, you can observe the dismantling and rebuilding of the stone walls, as well as the restoration process using traditional construction methods, providing a valuable opportunity to learn about the realities of cultural property preservation.
Main Highlights of Kumamoto Castle
Uto Yagura (Uto Turret)
The Uto Yagura is one of the few remaining Edo period structures at Kumamoto Castle and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. With a structure of five floors above ground and one basement floor, it is a large turret, sometimes called the “third keep.” It survived the Kumamoto earthquake, demonstrating the high level of Edo period construction technology.
While the interior is not open to the public, its imposing appearance can be seen from the outside. The contrast between the black clapboard exterior and the white plaster is beautiful, making it a symbolic presence of Kumamoto Castle.
Two Types of Stone Walls
Near the Inui Yagura (Inui Turret) within Kumamoto Castle, there are distinctive stone walls known as “two types of stone walls.” This is a valuable spot where you can see the old stone walls from the time of Kato Kiyomasa and the newer stone walls from the time of the Hosokawa family side by side, allowing you to observe the evolution of castle construction techniques all at once.
The stone walls from Kiyomasa’s time were built using the nozura-zumi method, where natural stones are stacked as they are, while the stone walls from the Hosokawa period used the uchikomi-hagi method, where processed stones are densely stacked. You can really feel the evolution of technology over time.
Sukiyamaru Second Floor Grand Hall
The Sukiyamaru Second Floor Grand Hall is a building located in the southwest corner of the main enclosure and was restored in 2005. This building has an elegant design with a tea room and was used as the private space of the feudal lord. From the grand hall, you can see the city of Kumamoto and Mount Aso, making it a popular spot for its spectacular views.
Kato Shrine
Within the main enclosure of Kumamoto Castle is the Kato Shrine, dedicated to Kato Kiyomasa. Founded in 1871 (Meiji 4), this shrine is a place of worship for Kiyomasa Kato and attracts many visitors. From the shrine grounds, you can see the castle tower up close, making it a popular photo spot.
Every July, the “Kiyomasa Festival” is held, featuring events such as a warrior procession.
Tourist Facilities Around Kumamoto Castle
Sakura-no-Baba Jōsai-en
Adjacent to the Ninomaru parking lot of Kumamoto Castle, “Sakura-no-Baba Jōsai-en” is a tourist exchange facility that opened in 2011. The “Sakura-no-Koji” (Cherry Blossom Lane), which recreates an Edo-period castle town, features approximately 20 shops, including restaurants serving Kumamoto’s local cuisine and souvenir shops selling traditional crafts.
“Wakuwaku-za” offers exhibits where visitors can learn about the history and culture of Kumamoto Castle in a fun way, making it an enjoyable facility for both children and adults. It serves as a base for Kumamoto Castle sightseeing and is visited by many tourists.
Kumamoto City Hall 14th Floor Observation Lobby
The 14th floor of Kumamoto City Hall features a free observation lobby offering panoramic views of Kumamoto Castle. This is a valuable viewpoint, providing a great vantage point for viewing the castle tower, stone walls, and the overall layout of the castle grounds, making it ideal for photography. It is open from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays.
Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art
Located within the Ninomaru Park of Kumamoto Castle, the Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art houses and displays art and antiques related to Kumamoto. Its collection of art and crafts passed down through the Hosokawa family is particularly extensive, including national treasures and important cultural properties.
Access and Tourist Information for Kumamoto Castle
Access Methods
Access by Train:
- From JR Kumamoto Station, take the city tram (streetcar) and get off at the “Kumamoto Castle/City Hall” tram stop, then walk for about 10 minutes.
- From Kumamoto Station to Kumamoto Castle, it’s about 20 minutes by city tram.
Access by Bus:
- From Kumamoto Station, take the Kumamoto Castle sightseeing bus “Shiromegurin” for about 15 minutes.
- From Sakuramachi Bus Terminal, it’s about a 10-minute walk.
Access by Car:
-About 30 minutes from the Kyushu Expressway Kumamoto IC.
- Parking is available at the Ninomaru Parking Lot (paid).
Opening Hours and Admission Fees
Opening Hours:
- March to November: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
- December to February: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Last entry 4:00 PM)
Admission Fee:
- Adults: 800 yen
- Elementary and Junior High School Students: 300 yen
- Preschool Children: Free
*Please note that the open areas and fees may change depending on the progress of restoration work. Please check the official website for the latest information.
Best Season for Visiting
Spring (Late March to Early April):
Kumamoto Castle is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, with approximately 800 cherry trees adorning the castle grounds. The combination of the castle tower and cherry blossoms is particularly spectacular, attracting many visitors. The trees are also illuminated at night, allowing visitors to enjoy the cherry blossoms after dark.
Autumn (Mid-November to Early December):
The autumn foliage season is also beautiful, with ginkgo and maple trees changing color, vividly coloring the castle grounds. The golden leaves of the large ginkgo tree, which gave the castle its nickname “Ginkgo Castle,” are especially magnificent.
Summer:
The lush green castle grounds are cool and refreshing, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the fresh greenery.
Winter:
Kumamoto Castle, covered in snow, also has a charming atmosphere, and with fewer tourists, you can enjoy a leisurely visit.
Cultural Value and Preservation Activities of Kumamoto Castle
Designation as a National Special Historic Site
Kumamoto Castle ruins were designated as a National Special Historic Site in 1955 (Showa 30). Special Historic Sites are designated for sites of particular importance among historic sites, and there are only 63 such sites nationwide (as of 2024). This demonstrates the extremely high value of Kumamoto Castle in Japanese history and culture.
Important Cultural Property Buildings
Kumamoto Castle has 13 buildings designated as National Important Cultural Property (before the earthquake). These include the Uto Turret, Kenmotsu Turret, and Akazu-no-mon Gate. These buildings are valuable cultural heritage that convey the architectural techniques of the Edo period to the present day.
One-Time Castle Lord System
Kumamoto City has implemented the “One-Time Castle Lord” system to preserve and restore Kumamoto Castle. Donations of 10,000 yen or more are issued a “Castle Lord Certificate” and a “Castle Lord Pass.” Presenting the Pass grants benefits such as free entry to Kumamoto Castle and surrounding facilities.
This system contributed significantly to fundraising for reconstruction after the Kumamoto earthquake, attracting support from across Japan. By 2024, approximately 200,000 people had become “One-Time Castle Lords,” raising a total of approximately 5 billion yen in donations.
Tips for Enjoying Kumamoto Castle
Recommended Sightseeing Route
Standard Course (Approx. 2 hours)
- Gather information and purchase souvenirs at Sakura-no-Baba Jōsai-en
- Enter the castle through Hohoate-gomon Gate
- Visit the Sukiyamaru Second Floor Grand Hall
- Visit the Honmaru Palace
- Visit the Tenshukaku (Castle Tower)
- View the Uto Turret from the outside
- Visit Kato Shrine
- View the two types of stone walls
In-Depth Course (Approx. 3-4 hours)
In addition to the standard course, this course includes viewing the restoration work via a special viewing path, having a picnic in Ninomaru Plaza, and visiting nearby art museums and museums.
Best Photo Spots
- Kato Shrine Grounds: A classic spot for close-up photos of the castle tower.
- Ninomaru Plaza: A great spot to photograph both the castle tower and the Uto Turret together.
- In front of the Nagabei Wall: A combination of Japan’s longest wall (approximately 242 meters) and stonework.
- City Hall 14th Floor Observation Lobby: A panoramic view of the entire castle complex.
- Gyokobashi Bridge: A great spot to photograph the entire castle from a distance.
Combine with Kumamoto Cuisine
After sightseeing at Kumamoto Castle, enjoy some local Kumamoto cuisine.
- Horse Meat Sashimi: A Kumamoto specialty of horse meat sashimi
- Kumamoto Ramen: Characterized by a rich pork bone-based soup and garlic chips
- Karashi Renkon: A local dish of lotus root stuffed with spicy miso paste and deep-fried
- Ikinari Dango: A Japanese confection made with sweet potato and red bean paste wrapped in wheat flour dough
- Taipeien: A local Kumamoto dish of vermicelli soup
There are many restaurants in Sakurano-baba Jōsaien and the Shimotori and Kamitori arcades.
Future Prospects for Kumamoto Castle
The restoration work on Kumamoto Castle is progressing with the aim of completion in fiscal year 2037. Traditional techniques are being used for the restoration of the stone walls, and the basic policy is “original-location restoration,” returning each stone to its original position.
The restoration work is not merely repair, but an important project to pass on the value of Kumamoto Castle to future generations castle. Even during construction, the remained open to the public as much as possible, serving as a “symbol of recovery” and giving courage and hope to many people.
As of 2024, the main keep, the Honmaru Palace, and special viewing pathways are open to the public, attracting approximately 2 million tourists annually. While complete restoration will still take time, watching the process unfold is one of the highlights of visiting Kumamoto Castle.
Summary
Kumamoto Castle is a representative Japanese castle, a masterpiece of castle construction techniques by Kato Kiyomasa, and a valuable cultural heritage site with over 400 years of history. Although it suffered significant damage in the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, restoration work is steadily progressing, and the castle is gradually regaining its former glory.
With its numerous highlights, including the warrior-repelling stone walls, the majestic main keep, and the magnificent Honmaru Palace, visitors can experience the pinnacle of Japanese castle architecture. It is also known as a famous spot for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty throughout the seasons.
When you visit Kumamoto, be sure to visit Kumamoto Castle and experience its history, culture, and the efforts toward reconstruction. Kumamoto Castle embodies not only past glory but also hope for the future, serving as a “symbol” of reconstruction” that will deeply move visitors.