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Introduction to Kumamoto Castle
One of Japan’s three famous castles, it is also known as Ginkgo Castle, constructed by the renowned general Kato Kiyomasa over approximately seven years starting in 1601.
This vast castle complex spans around 5.3 kilometers in circumference and covers a total area of 98 hectares.
It features three castle towers, 49 turrets, 18 turret gates, and 29 castle gates, showcasing unique construction techniques that make use of stone walls and the natural terrain.
It features three castle towers, 49 turrets, 18 turret gates, and 29 castle gates, showcasing unique construction techniques that make use of stone walls and the natural terrain.
In spring, around 800 cherry trees blossom, including three varieties: Yamazakura, Higozakura, and Somei Yoshino.
The Kumamoto Castle suffered extensive damage due to the collapse of stone walls and the destruction of buildings during the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake.
Amidst ongoing restoration efforts, a special public opening of Kumamoto Castle began in the first year of the Reiwa era, allowing visitors to observe the damage and the restoration process.
Amidst ongoing restoration efforts, a special public opening of Kumamoto Castle began in the first year of the Reiwa era, allowing visitors to observe the damage and the restoration process.
Please take this unique opportunity to experience the appearance of Kumamoto Castle, which can only be seen during this period of restoration work.
Details
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) ・Entry to the castle tower is until 4:30 PM. ・Opening hours may be extended due to events, etc. ・From October 1, 2022, entry and exit on weekdays and Saturdays will only be from the South Gate. ・On Sundays and public holidays, entry and exit are possible from both the North and South Gates. |
|---|---|
| Closed Days | End of the year (December 29 to December 31) ・The park may open during the end of the year. It may also close due to severe weather conditions. Please check the latest information in the “Notices” section. |
| Ticket Offices | ・South Gate Ticket Office (9:00 AM to 4:30 PM) ・North Gate Ticket Office (9:00 AM to 4:30 PM) *Only available on Sundays and public holidays ・Ninomaru Ticket Office (8:45 AM to 4:00 PM) ・Wakuwaku-Za Ticket Office (8:45 AM to 4:00 PM) |
| Admission Fees | ・High school students and above: 800 yen (640 yen for groups of 30 or more paying visitors) ・Elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen (240 yen for groups) ・Children under 6 years old: Free |
| Advance Ticket Purchase (Web) | For those who have decided on their visit date, it is possible to purchase admission tickets (e-tickets) in advance online. Once the purchase is complete, an e-ticket (QR code) will be sent to the registered email address. On the day of the visit, please display the QR code on your smartphone at the entrance, or print the QR code and bring it with you. ・Cancellations or changes to the date and time after purchase are not possible.
・The start date for ticket sales is the 16th of the month prior for entry from the 1st to the 15th of the month, and the 1st of the month for entry from the 16th to the 31st. For example, for entry on April 26th, sales start on April 1st. |
| Official Website | Official website |
Castle Map
Points to Remember When Visiting
・The pathways are slippery when it rains. Please wear non-slip soled shoes when visiting the castle.
・When crowded, please refrain from taking photographs using camera tripods or selfie sticks.
・While pets may not be taken inside the castle park, assistance dogs are allowed to accompany visitors.
・No flames or fires are allowed inside Kumamoto Castle park grounds.
Paid facilities have no indoor smoking areas, so smokers are asked to use the smoking areas next to the Ninomaru Free Rest Area or at Josaien.
・We request that you refrain from eating in observation areas. Drinks are allowed, providing they have lids.
・Visitors needing wheelchairs, including electrically power-assisted ones, may borrow them for free (It is necessary to be accompanied by a helper, and the wheelchairs may not be used on rainy days).
・Baby strollers are allowed to be brought and used.
・During the Grand Unveiling, the area surrounding Kumamoto Castle is expected to be very crowded.
We ask that you take public transportation to come to the castle and allow plenty of time for viewing.
Depending on crowd conditions, entry restrictions may be imposed.
・When crowded, please refrain from taking photographs using camera tripods or selfie sticks.
・While pets may not be taken inside the castle park, assistance dogs are allowed to accompany visitors.
・No flames or fires are allowed inside Kumamoto Castle park grounds.
Paid facilities have no indoor smoking areas, so smokers are asked to use the smoking areas next to the Ninomaru Free Rest Area or at Josaien.
・We request that you refrain from eating in observation areas. Drinks are allowed, providing they have lids.
・Visitors needing wheelchairs, including electrically power-assisted ones, may borrow them for free (It is necessary to be accompanied by a helper, and the wheelchairs may not be used on rainy days).
・Baby strollers are allowed to be brought and used.
・During the Grand Unveiling, the area surrounding Kumamoto Castle is expected to be very crowded.
We ask that you take public transportation to come to the castle and allow plenty of time for viewing.
Depending on crowd conditions, entry restrictions may be imposed.
Last Word
Kumamoto Castle is among the most renowned castles in Japan, a must-see destination that captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty.
In spring, the castle grounds come alive with the vibrant hues of approximately 800 cherry blossom trees, creating a picturesque scene that feels almost surreal.
As night falls, the castle is illuminated, casting a magical glow that further enhances its majestic appearance.
When you visit Kumamoto, make sure to explore the many wonders of Kumamoto Castle!
In spring, the castle grounds come alive with the vibrant hues of approximately 800 cherry blossom trees, creating a picturesque scene that feels almost surreal.
As night falls, the castle is illuminated, casting a magical glow that further enhances its majestic appearance.
When you visit Kumamoto, make sure to explore the many wonders of Kumamoto Castle!