What other travelers are saying about Kumamoto Castle
really worth a visit. but maybe later? check when they will finish their restoration (full) i think it will be better. now you can only observe a part of it. but it is already wonderful. just prepare to be stunned and tired your legs with these stairs
It is quite a beautiful castle and is currently undergoing repairs from a recent earthquake.
Do note that there are stairs all the way to the 7th floor, but you can seek the guards' help to use the lift if you require it.
All signages are in Japanese, though there is a QR code that allows you to listen to the English translation. (Not sure about other languages). It is one of the better preserved castles in Japan, though I do like the Matsumoto Jo slightly better.
There is ample paid parking around the grounds or it is a 15-20 minutes' walk from Sakuramachi.
Beautiful and historically rich site. The castle and museum are separate but both worth visiting. Great mix of traditional architecture and informative exhibits. It was very hot during my visit — highly recommend bringing a fan, water, hat, or sunglasses. A must-see spot in Kumamoto!
Simply a must see if you are in Kumamoto. Damaged in the 2016 earthquake, the city has been gradually repairing sections of the castle surroundings. Currently has a temporary bridge and walkway installment to goes from the entrance to the main courtyard. Very wheelchair friendly, with elevators if you want to avoid the many steps. The government aims to have all the renovations completed within two decades, but I think the temporary walkway installment adds to the charm as it gives a better vantage point then standing on the ground would've. The cost of entry is 800 yen for just the castle, 850 yen for a bundle ticket with the castle museum, and 1100 yen for the three locations, which I personally do not recommend. The best value is the 850 yej for two attractions, as the castle museum has some really cool exhibits, especially the 3D projection of the damage the earthquake caused.
Beautifully restored. It’s also interesting how the museum has presented the timeline in its entirety. I wished there were more English translations as most of the information was provided in Japanese. It is overall a nice place and reasonable price to enter. There is a small museum in another location where the ticket can be bought together at the castle entrance. I do recommend adding that on since it’s only JPY50 more.
