Witness the Rebirth of Kumamoto Castle

Open to the public during reconstruction

Kumamoto Castle suffered significant damage in the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, with reconstruction efforts continuing to this day.

Visitors today will find a special viewing corridor, 350 meters long and approximately six meters high, which offers a unique perspective on the castle, the earthquake damage, and the reconstruction work. Although it is said that it will take approximately 36 years to fully restore the castle to its pre-earthquake condition, it is still an attractive tourist destination and should not be missed by travelers.

The castle tower, which was completely restored some five years after the earthquake, provides an easy-to-understand explanation of the history of Kumamoto Castle from construction to the present through the use of videos and models. Explanations of the exhibits are available in English, Chinese, and Korean, using a dedicated smartphone app.

On June 1, 2020, the reconstruction observation path has opened. At 350 meters long and 6 meters high, it offers unique views of the castle, the damage suffered in the earthquake, and the reconstruction effort. It is said that it will take some twenty years to fully restore the castle to its pre-earthquake state, but it remains a fascinating destination in the present day—and one that no traveler should miss.

Spring is the best time to visit the castle, as you can enjoy the beautiful view of cherry blossoms blooming throughout the castle grounds.

Other historical and cultural attractions are nearby, including the beautifully appointed home of Lafcadio Hearn, also known as Yakumo Koizumi, a Western scholar of Japan, author, and folklorist.

Access: From Hakata Station, take the Kyushu Shinkansen to Kumamoto Station (about 32 minutes), then take the Kumamoto Dentetsu Bus to the Shiyakusho Mae stop (about 14 minutes). The castle is a two-minute walk from the stop.

Kumamoto Castle