10 Things to Do at Kumamoto Castle in Kumamoto, Japan
Kumamoto Castle, located in Kumamoto, Japan, is one of the most historically significant and beautiful castles in the country. Built in 1607, the castle is a National Treasure of Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kumamoto Castle is a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of things to do and see here. Here are 10 things to do at Kumamoto Castle.
1. Explore the Castle Grounds: Kumamoto Castle’s grounds are expansive and include several different areas to explore. The Honmaru area is the main castle grounds and includes the castle tower, the main keep, and the Ninomaru Palace. The Ninomaru Garden is a beautiful area with a pond and a teahouse. The Sannomaru area includes the castle’s outer walls, the East and West gates, and the Tatsumi Yagura Turret.
2. Take a Tour: Kumamoto Castle offers guided tours of the castle grounds. The tours are offered in both English and Japanese and are a great way to learn more about the history of the castle.
3. Visit the Museum: The Kumamoto Castle Museum is located in the castle grounds and offers a variety of exhibits about the castle’s history. The museum also has a gift shop and a café.
4. Enjoy the Night View: Kumamoto Castle is especially beautiful at night. The castle is illuminated after dark and the night view is a must-see.
5. Climb the Castle Tower: The castle tower is the main keep of the castle and is open to visitors. Climbing the tower is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the castle grounds.
6. Watch a Performance: Kumamoto Castle hosts traditional performances throughout the year. The performances include traditional music, dance, and theater.
7. Attend a Festival: Kumamoto Castle is the site of several festivals throughout the year. These festivals usually include traditional music, dance, and food.
8. Take a Hike: The castle grounds are surrounded by a lush forest, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore.
9. Shop at the Market: Kumamoto Castle hosts a weekly market every Saturday. The market is a great place to find souvenirs and local crafts.
10. Eat Local Food: Kumamoto is known for its delicious food, and there are plenty of restaurants and food stalls near the castle. Try some of the local delicacies such as karashi renkon (deep-fried lotus root) and satsuma-age (deep-fried fish cake).
Kumamoto Castle is a great place to visit and explore. Whether you’re interested in the castle’s history or just want to take in the beautiful views, there’s something for everyone here. So, make sure to add Kumamoto Castle to your Japan itinerary and enjoy all the things it has to offer.