Fascinating! Very well maintained. The exhibits were nicely explained to make one appreciate history of castle. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Hard to imagine such a nice attraction doesn’t charge admission fee.
The museum is great and is for free. You can view plenty of historical items and descriptions. There are other visuals, like videos and recording available. If you are interested in Japanese history, I can definitely recommend this visit.
I learned so much of the history of Saga. The volunteer guide that accompanied us was fantastic!!! My son who is a history buff got much information from the guide. Everyone there was friendly. Learned the role Saga played in relation to Nagasaki as well as involvement during Meiji uprising. We spent 4+ hours. The “castle” is beautifully restored and one can’t help to wonder the planning and logistics involved in building this castle. There’s no charge for admission or the docent.
It's sad that saga castle did not survive the passing of time, the years of neglect, and the numerous fire incidents that eventually brought it down. This museum however encapsulate a great deal of the history surrounding the castle and the region of Saga. A lot of valuable national treasures are enclosed here and valuable history on the first vaccination in Japan, innovations in railway, and the first most advanced school on western education in Japan. The heritage of the Naomasa clan lives on and I am in awe of the history of this place which largely goes unnoticed by most Japanese folks today. Also, a particularly interesting activity to partake in is the digital photography in fictional outfits of the Edo era, the outfits are selected randomly and I was lucky to get the Samurai outfit ^_^
Visited in January 2020. Reconstruction of the main keep of Saga Castle built in 1838, during the last years of the Edo Period. It is one of the largest wooden reconstructions in Japan. There are historic exhibitions in the museum and it is open to public. Need to remove shoe in locker before entering. Main entrance is located near Naomasa Statue / NHK building