- Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, Kumamoto Prefecture 860-0002, Japan
- Phone: +81 96-352-5900
- Fax: +81 096-351-2954
- Official website: manyou-kumamoto.jp
- Ticket price: $ 4.5
- Working hours: 8: 00-17: 30 (from April to October), 8: 30-16: 30 (from November to March)
A large area and many ancient buildings make Kumamoto Castle one of the most impressive in Japan . Restoration work was carried out here for 60 years, and in 2008 a museum was opened. However, in April 2016 there was a terrible earthquake, and the castle suffered serious damage. Nevertheless, today you can look at the massive fortresses from the outside. Repair of the whole castle will take at least 20 years.
Description of sight
Kumamoto has a rich history. It was built as a fortress. Many times it was subjected to destruction and fires, but it was always restored. Inside the main building was created a museum with an exposition telling about the construction and restoration of the original interior.
The present building of the palace was built using modern materials and methods. Visitors can see the exact reconstruction of the interior decoration of the reception rooms. The castle impresses with its stone walls with a total length of 13 km and moats, as well as turrets and warehouses.
The tower of the Yuto turret is one of the few buildings that survived all adversity. It exists since the time of construction in the XVII century. There is also a unique underground passage leading to the building of the palace and the former residence of the Hosokawa clan, about 500 m to the north-west.
On the territory of the castle, 120 wells with drinking water were dug, walnut and cherry trees planted. From the end of March to the middle of April, about 800 cherry blossoms bloom and create a fantastic view. At night, the main palace is illuminated, and it can be seen from afar.
Tragedy
On April 14, 2016, an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.2 points occurred. The stone wall at the foot of the fortress was partially destroyed, some of the palace's decorations fell from the roof. The next day the earthquake recurred, but already by a strength of 7.3 points. Some designs were completely broken, the castle itself withstood little damage. The two towers were badly damaged, the roof tiles fell from the roof, but it was laid in such a way that, falling off in the event of an earthquake, do not damage the interior of the building.
Repair work will be carried out with special care. All stones, even small ones, will be numbered and installed exactly as before. This is possible using old photographs and documents. Restoration will be long, but the Japanese are going to use the recovery process to attract tourists.
How to get there?
Kumamoto Castle is located in the center of the city of the same name in Japan. From JR Kumamoto station by tram can be reached in 15 minutes, the fare is $ 1.5.