Kokura Castle

Kokura Castle was constructed in 1602 by Tadaoki Hosokawa, a feudal lord rewarded with the Kokura region by Tokugawa Ieyasu. The original castle featured a unique architectural style called "Karazukuri," making it the only castle in Japan built with this distinctive design. The castle served as a bastion of power for ruling clans but was destroyed by fire in 1837, partially rebuilt in 1839, and completely reconstructed in 1959.

The castle holds significant cultural importance as it connects to the famous duel between legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi and Sasaki Kojiro on nearby Ganryu Island in 1612. Kokura Castle is listed among the Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles, though the current reconstruction prioritized aesthetic appeal over historical accuracy. The castle grounds serve as a popular cherry blossom viewing spot beloved by locals.

The five-story castle keep now functions as a modern museum and cultural center. The first floor features a high-definition large-screen theater, while the second and third floors display exhibitions related to Kokura's history. Visitors can access the top floor for panoramic views of Kokura city. Adjacent to the castle, the Kokura Castle Garden recreates the former feudal lord's villa with a reconstructed strolling garden based on Edo-era relics and a replica daimyo residence, offering tea ceremony workshops and cultural exhibits.

Kokura Castle is accessible via the Sanyo Shinkansen with direct connections from Fukuoka and Osaka to Kokura Station. From JR Kokura Station, the castle is a 15-minute walk, or 10 minutes from the closer Nishi-Kokura Station on the Kagoshima Main Line. Admission costs ¥350 for adults, ¥200 for middle and high school students, and ¥100 for elementary children. A combination ticket for both the castle and garden costs ¥560 for adults, ¥320 for students, and ¥160 for children.