Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto Castle, known as one of Japan's three greatest castles, is located at the center of Kumamoto City, whose water supply is sourced completely from natural groundwater. Covering an area of 98 hectares, the castle grounds are home to a number of features created through ingenious architectural technologies, such as curved stonewalls that straighten out vertically at the top and moats designed to utilize the nearby river. Although the castle complex suffered devastating damage from the Kumamoto Earthquakes in 2016, the subsequent restoration work on the tower was completed in 2021, becoming a symbol of Kumamoto's recovery efforts. Until the entire planned restoration work is completed in 2052, visitors can view the recovery process from a designated route.

Another attraction of the castle is Sakuranobaba Josaien, a specially created commercial complex inspired by a castle town of the Edo period (1603-1868). It includes the Kumamoto Castle Museum Wakuwakuza, which allows you to go on a castle tour (in a designated area) dressed in historical costumes, such as samurai and ninjas. Within walking distance of this complex is the Kumamoto Food Stall Village, a cool dining spot featuring photogenic lanterns, offering a variety of local delicacies from Kumamoto.