Fukuoka Castle Ruins Travel Guide

The Fukuoka Castle Ruins, also known as Maizuru Castle, are located in the heart of Fukuoka City within Maizuru Park. Built in the early 17th century by Kuroda Nagamasa, the lord of the Chikuzen feudal domain, the castle served as a crucial stronghold. The castle was constructed to support Tokugawa Ieyasu during the battle of Sekigahara. The castle was applauded by another warlord, Kato Kiyomasa, who nicknamed it 'the Stone Castle'.Fukuoka Castle was once the largest castle in Kyushu. However, most of the original structures were torn down after the Meiji Restoration in 1870, as the government sought to abolish the feudal system. Today, visitors can explore the remaining stone walls, gates, and turrets, which offer a glimpse into the castle's former glory. The main keep's stone base remains and serves as an observation deck.The castle ruins are located within Maizuru Park, providing scenic walking paths and panoramic city views. The park is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in late March and early April. The park also contains the Korokan Ruins Museum, which displays artifacts from Japan's diplomatic and overseas trade history during the Nara and Heian periods, and the Fukuoka Castle History Exploration Hall.