- Culture
- Saga
Karatsu Castle
The symbol of Karatsu tourism
Karatsu Castle was built by Terasawa Shima-no-Kami Hirotaka, vassal of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, over seven years starting from 1602. It is said that materials from the dismantling of Hizen Nagoya Castle were used when building the castle. The sands extending from the east and west of the castle look like the outstretched wings of a crane, earning it the alternative name "Maizuru (Dancing Crane) Castle". It is also a famous place for cherry blossom trees and wisteria.
The inside of Karatsu Castle’s castle tower was refurbished in 2017. It now makes use of digital signage and introduces tourist routes centered around Karatsu Castle, including tourist facilities, eateries, and souvenir stores. There is also an experience area where visitors can try wearing replicas of the outfits Lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Lord Ogasawara Nagamichi used to wear, including their helmets. Visitors can also take photographs to commemorate the occasion.
Location
| Name | Karatsu Castle |
|---|---|
| Web Sites | (In Japanese) http://karatsu-bunka.or.jp/shiro.html |
| Address | 8-1 Higashijonai, Karatsu-shi, Saga |
| Access | 15 minutes’ walk from JR Karatsu Station |
| Business Hours | 9:00 to 17:00 (Last admission: 16:40) |
| Closed | December 29 to 31 |
| Inquiries | TEL: 0955-72-5697 |
| Admission | Castle Tower Entrance Fee: Adults: 500 yen / Elementary and Junior High School Students: 250 yen Maizuru Park Elevator Usage Fee: Adults: 100 yen / Elementary and Junior High School Students: 50 yen |