Discover the Historic Charm of Hirado Castle
Explore the majestic Hirado Castle, a historical gem in Nagasaki with captivating views and rich cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Hirado Castle
- 1458 Iwanouecho, Hirado, Iwanouecho, Nagasaki, 859-5121, JP
- +81950-22-2201
Hirado Castle, a prominent castle in Hirado, Nagasaki, is a historical marvel that dates back to the 16th century. Its strategic location on a hilltop provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and sea. Originally built as a fortification, the castle has undergone various reconstructions, with the current keep being a beautiful representation of traditional Japanese architecture. Visitors can explore the castle's grounds, which are adorned with cherry blossoms in spring, making it a picturesque spot for photography enthusiasts. As a historical landmark and museum, Hirado Castle showcases artifacts and exhibits that illustrate the rich history of Hirado and its significance during Japan's feudal era. The castle walls tell tales of battles fought and alliances forged, giving insight into the lives of samurai and local rulers. The friendly guides on-site are knowledgeable and eager to share stories that bring the past to life. The ambiance of the castle, coupled with its serene surroundings, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of modern life. For those interested in taking in the panoramic views, a climb to the top of the castle is highly recommended. The effort is rewarded with stunning vistas of Hirado City, the Hirado Strait, and the distant islands. Additionally, the castle's proximity to other attractions makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the rich cultural landscape of Nagasaki Prefecture. Whether one is a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a scenic spot, Hirado Castle promises an unforgettable experience.
Local tips
- Visit during cherry blossom season for stunning floral displays around the castle.
- Consider a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the castle's history.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the climb to the top for the best views.
- Check the castle's opening hours ahead of your visit, as they may change seasonally.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from central Higo, take the Nagasaki Expressway (Nagasaki Toll Road) towards Hirado. Exit at the Hirado Interchange. Once you exit, follow the signs to Hirado city center. Continue on Route 204 for approximately 20 minutes until you reach the area near Hirado Castle. There is parking available near the castle, but be mindful of parking fees, which typically range from 300 to 500 yen per hour.
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Public Transportation (Train and Bus)
To reach Hirado Castle via public transportation, start by taking a train from Higo to Hirado Station. You can take the JR Sasebo Line to Sasebo Station, which takes about 45 minutes. From Sasebo Station, transfer to the Hirado Bus, which operates routes to Hirado city. The bus ride will take approximately 1 hour. Get off at the 'Hirado Castle' bus stop, which is only a short walk from the castle entrance. The total cost for the train and bus rides is around 1,500 yen.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from your location in Higo directly to Hirado Castle. Taxis are available throughout the city. Depending on traffic, the journey may take approximately 30 to 45 minutes and will cost around 5,000 to 7,000 yen. Ensure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Attractions Nearby to Hirado Castle
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Ninety-nine Island Cruise
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Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort
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JMSDF Sasebo Museum Sail Tower
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Ishidake Observatory 石岳展望台園地
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Kujukushima Zoo & Botanical Gardens Mori Kirara
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SASEBO Naval Port Cruise
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Sasebo Port
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Tenkaiho Observatory
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Kujukushima Tourist Park
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Hado Cape
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Saga Prefectural Nagoya Castle Museum
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Nagoya Castle Ruins
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The Kyushu Ceramic Museum
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Sueyama Shinto Shrine.
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Huis Ten Bosch
