Kagoshima (Tsurumaru) Castle Ruins
Discover the remnants of Kagoshima Castle, home to the Shimazu clan, featuring reconstructed gate, stone walls and moats, offering a glimpse into samurai history.
Explore the historic Kagoshima Castle, also known as Tsurumaru Castle, the former seat of the powerful Shimazu clan. Though largely destroyed by fire in 1873, the impressive stone walls, moats, and the meticulously reconstructed Goromon Gate (completed in 2020) offer a glimpse into the region's rich samurai history.
A brief summary to Kagoshima (Tsurumaru) Castle Ruins
- 7-2 Shiroyamacho, Kagoshima, Shiroyamacho, Kagoshima, 892-0853, JP
- +8199-222-5100
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during late March or early April to witness the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom around the castle ruins.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the Reimeikan Museum, located within the castle grounds, to learn more about Kagoshima's history.
- Take a walk around the stone walls and moats to appreciate the scale and strategic importance of the former castle.
Getting There
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Walking
From Shiroyama Park Observatory, descend towards the city center. Follow the road leading downhill, passing the Saigo Takamori statue. Continue towards the Reimeikan Museum, located within the Kagoshima Castle grounds. The Goromon Gate is a short walk from the museum entrance. Allow approximately 20-30 minutes for the walk.
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Public Transport
From Kagoshima-Chuo Station, take the Kagoshima City View bus or a local bus towards the city center. Get off at the 'Satsuma Gishihi-mae' or 'Shiyakusho-mae' bus stop. The castle ruins are a 5-minute walk from either stop. Bus fare is approximately ¥170-¥190. A one-day pass for city buses and trams costs ¥600.
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Taxi
From Kagoshima-Chuo Station, a taxi to Kagoshima Castle takes approximately 10 minutes. The fare will be around ¥1000-¥1500, depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available at the station.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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