Kumamoto Castle: A Symbol of Resilience
Discover Kumamoto Castle: Witness history and resilience at one of Japan's most impressive fortresses, currently undergoing a remarkable restoration.
Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's three premier castles, boasts a rich history dating back to 1607. Severely damaged in the 2016 earthquake, it stands as a testament to Kumamoto's spirit, with ongoing restoration efforts blending history and modern technology.
A brief summary to Kumamoto Castle
- 1-1 Honmaru, Kumamoto, Honmaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 860-0002, JP
- +8196-352-5900
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on potentially steep paths.
- Check the official website for the latest information on opening hours, events, and any area closures due to ongoing restoration.
- Consider visiting during the spring to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
- Take public transportation to the castle, as parking can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Allow at least half a day to explore the castle grounds and exhibits thoroughly.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From JR Kumamoto Station, take the Kumamoto City Tram (Line A) to Kumamotojo-mae tram stop. The ride is approximately 15 minutes and costs ¥170. From the tram stop, it's a short walk to the castle entrance.
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Bus
From Kumamoto Station, take the Kumamoto Castle Bus Tour "Shiromegurin" to the Ninomaru parking lot. The one-way fare is ¥160 for adults and ¥80 for children. A one-day ticket is available for ¥400 for adults and ¥200 for children. Alternatively, take any Kumamoto Toshi Bus or Kyushu Sanko bus to Katei Saibansho Mae; the journey takes about 15 minutes and costs ¥170-¥250.
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Taxi
From JR Kumamoto Station, a taxi to Kumamoto Castle takes approximately 3 minutes and costs between ¥1500 and ¥1900.
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Walking
From Kumamoto Station, it is approximately a 30-45 minute walk to Kumamoto Castle. Follow the main road towards the city center, and you will see signs directing you to the castle.
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Parking
If driving, several parking lots are available near Kumamoto Castle, including Ninomaru Parking Lot, Sannomaru 1st and 2nd Parking Lots, Miyauchi Parking Lot, and Sakurano-Baba Tourist Information Office Parking Lot. Parking fees for cars are ¥200 for the first 2 hours and ¥100 per hour thereafter. For buses, the fee is ¥500 for 2 hours, with ¥200 for each subsequent hour.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Tsujunkyo Bridge
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Tachibana Museum Yanagawa
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kumamoto Castle Great Ginkgo
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Kumamoto Castle Honmaru palace
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Uto Yagura
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Katō Shrine
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Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Center
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Inari Shrine
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Bizen-bori moat
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Miyukizaka
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Kumamoto Castle Park (Ninomaru Hiroba)
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Statue of Kato Kiyomasa
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Shimotori Shopping Arcade
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Natsume Soseki Former Residence
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Essential places to dine
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Higo Sushi
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Milk
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Akaushi Restaurant Higo Local Cuisine Yoka-Yoka
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Takamori Dengaku no Sato
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Jirocho
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Jungle Soup Curry
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皿屋福柳 筑後支店 うなぎレストラン UMORI
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Higo Yokamon Ichba Market
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Uto City Mall
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Mano
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Beat
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DJ's Bar MAZE
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BAR Thank
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Jeff's World Bar
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Bar All Sunday
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Bar Magic Shift(マジックバーシフト)
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BAR MIDORI
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International Bar Detour
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Rock Bar DAYS
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bar lente
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bar colon
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ティー
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Jelly & Belly
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夜香木 yakoboku
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