Majestic Black-and-White Castle Walls and Tower

Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's three great castles, is located in Chuo Ward, Kumamoto City. Built between 1601 and 1607, it was designed by the renowned samurai Kato Kiyomasa and later managed by the Hosokawa clan. Nicknamed "Ginkgo Castle" due to the ginkgo trees within its grounds and the golden autumn scenery. The castle features a "fan-shaped slope" design, making it highly defensible, and is considered one of Japan's top three castles alongside Osaka Castle and Nagoya Castle. The castle suffered damage during the Satsuma Rebellion in 1877, and its main keep was reconstructed in 1960. In 2016, the Kumamoto earthquake caused significant destruction, and restoration efforts are ongoing. By 2025, the main keep and some areas will reopen under the name "Kumamoto Castle Special Opening," symbolizing the spirit of the samurai. Main Keep: The black-and-white exterior with golden roof tiles houses exhibits of Kato Kiyomasa's artifacts and the earthquake recovery process. Recommended Route (Approx. 1.5-2 hours): • Ninomaru Square: Upon entering, reach the square, a free area ideal for capturing panoramic views of the main keep, especially in the morning light. • Ticket Booth and Kato Shrine: Purchase tickets (¥800, includes access to the main keep and Honmaru Palace) and visit Kato Shrine (free) to pray and buy lucky charms (¥500-1,000). • Main Keep: • Six floors showcasing Kato Kiyomasa's armor, earthquake recovery videos, and a model of Kumamoto Castle. • Observation deck on the top floor offers views of Kumamoto City and Mount Aso (visible on clear days). • No elevator; visitors must climb steep stairs (about 100 steps). Those with mobility issues can stop at the first floor. • Honmaru Palace (partially open): Features restored grand halls and gold-leaf murals, displaying the lifestyle of the Hosokawa clan. • Stone Walls and Turrets: Some areas have been restored post-earthquake. Uto Turret (a national treasure, ¥300, open 9:00-16:30) showcases 17th-century architecture. • Sakuranobaba Josaien (5-minute walk): A complex with a historical exhibition hall (¥300) and a food street offering local delicacies (wagashi ¥500, Kumamoto ramen ¥1,200). Nearby Cuisine: • Sakuranobaba Josaien (5-minute walk): • Warajiya: Kumamoto horse meat sushi (¥1,500), a Kyushu specialty with a tender texture. • Akaushi Don: Aso red beef bowl (¥1,800), juicy meat served with miso soup. • Higo Marunoya: Kumamoto ramen (¥1,200), rich pork bone broth. • Kumamoto Ginsai-an (10-minute walk, ¥800): Matcha shaved ice and ginkgo wagashi with views of the main keep. • Umazakura (near Kumamoto Station, 10 minutes by tram, ¥3,000): Horse meat kaiseki cuisine, reservation required.