Detailed History and Overview of Kumamoto Castle

 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Kumamoto Castle
2. History of Kumamoto Castle
3. Highlights of Kumamoto Castle
   

Introduction

Kumamoto Castle, located in Chuo Ward, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is one of Japan’s three premier castles. Known for its beautiful exterior and formidable defenses, it is affectionately called "Ginkgo Castle." Built in 1607 by Kato Kiyomasa, the castle encompasses a vast area with numerous structures, making it historically and culturally significant.

This article provides a detailed overview of Kumamoto Castle, covering its history and key attractions.

1. Overview of Kumamoto Castle 

Kumamoto Castle is located in Chuo Ward, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, and is widely recognized as one of Japan’s three premier castles. Known as "Ginkgo Castle," it was built by Kato Kiyomasa in 1607 and boasts a vast area and formidable defensive structures.

The castle covers an area of approximately 980,000 square meters with an outer perimeter of about 9 kilometers. Its structures include curved stone walls, three main keeps, 49 turrets, 18 turret gates, and 29 castle gates. The central keep comprises a six-story main keep and a four-story secondary keep, both reconstructed in 1960 with reinforced concrete to faithfully replicate their original appearance.

Kumamoto Castle has a turbulent history. During the Satsuma Rebellion in 1877, many buildings were destroyed by fire but were later rebuilt through the efforts of Kumamoto citizens. The Honmaru Goten Palace within the castle was reconstructed in 2008 to commemorate the 400th anniversary, using original materials and techniques. The 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes caused significant damage, but restoration efforts are ongoing. The main keep's restoration was completed in 2019, with full restoration expected by 2037.

Around the castle are approximately 800 cherry trees, attracting numerous visitors in the spring. During the cherry blossom season, the castle is beautifully illuminated at night. The castle grounds feature exhibits on the castle's history and architecture, and the reconstructed Honmaru Goten Palace is a major attraction. Visitors can enjoy the grand stone walls, moats, and multiple turrets.

2. History of Kumamoto Castle 

Kumamoto Castle has endured numerous battles and natural disasters, preserving its majestic form through the ages. Here is a detailed history:

　 1. Early Construction and the Era of Kato Kiyomasa (1588 - 1611)

The history of Kumamoto Castle dates back to 1588 when Kato Kiyomasa became the lord of Higo Province (present-day Kumamoto Prefecture) and began renovating the old Kumamoto Castle. From 1601 to 1607, Kiyomasa constructed the current Kumamoto Castle using advanced techniques of the time. Known for its sturdy structure and excellent defensive mechanisms, the castle was completed in 1607. After Kiyomasa’s death in 1611, his son Kato Tadahiro inherited the castle but was later replaced by the Hosokawa clan in 1632.

　 2. The Hosokawa Era and Edo Period Development (1632 - 1871)

During the Hosokawa clan's rule, the castle underwent further expansion and fortification. Throughout the Edo period, Kumamoto Castle served as a political, economic, and cultural center. Numerous buildings and gardens were established, and the castle town flourished. The castle housed the domain school Jishūkan, where samurai and scholars received education.

　 3. The Satsuma Rebellion and Preservation in the Meiji Era (1877 - 1933)

In 1877, during the Satsuma Rebellion, Kumamoto Castle was besieged by Satsuma forces, leading to intense fighting. The main keep and Honmaru Palace were destroyed by fire during this battle. After the war, parts of the castle were used as a military base, and some structures were rebuilt by the Meiji government. In 1933, Uto Turret and 12 other turrets were designated as National Treasures, with the stone walls and moats also being protected as historical heritage.

　 4. Reconstruction and Cultural Heritage Designation in the Showa Era (1960 - 1980)

In 1960, the main keep and secondary keep were reconstructed using reinforced concrete, restoring Kumamoto Castle's grandeur. The castle was designated as a Special Historic Site in 1955, and restoration of the Honmaru Palace began in the 1970s. During this period, the castle was developed as a tourist attraction, welcoming numerous visitors.​

　 5. Heisei Restoration and the Kumamoto Earthquake (1998 - Present)

From 1998, restoration work on the Honmaru Palace progressed, and it was officially opened in 2007 to commemorate the 400th anniversary. However, the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes caused significant damage, prompting extensive restoration efforts. Major restoration work was completed in 2019, but full restoration is expected to take several more decades. The castle is partially open to the public while restoration continues.​

3. Highlights of Kumamoto Castle 

Kumamoto Castle continues to captivate visitors with its grand structure and rich history. Here are some main highlights:

　■ Main Keep

The main keep of Kumamoto Castle stands at six stories tall and is a major tourist attraction. Reconstructed with reinforced concrete in 1960, it houses a museum detailing the castle's history and architecture. Exhibits on the first floor focus on Kato Kiyomasa's era, highlighting the castle's design and defensive features. The top floor offers panoramic views of Kumamoto City, making it a prime spot during cherry blossom season.​

　■ Honmaru Goten Palace

Honmaru Goten Palace, the former residential part of Kumamoto Castle, has been restored and opened to the public. Reconstructed in 2008 to commemorate the castle's 400th anniversary, the palace uses original materials and techniques, showcasing luxurious decorations and the lifestyle of the samurai. The grand hall and barrier paintings are notable features, providing a glimpse into the opulent life of the period. Exhibits also detail the castle's history and reconstruction process.

　■ Turrets

Kumamoto Castle has multiple turrets, with "Uto Turret" being particularly significant as one of the few surviving structures. Standing three stories tall and approximately 19 meters high, it contains preserved defensive equipment and armories. Uto Turret has maintained its original form for over 400 years, surviving the Satsuma Rebellion and the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake. It is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

　■ Stone Walls

The castle's stone walls are renowned for their beauty and technical precision. Featuring a unique curved design called "musha-gaeshi," these walls enhance defensive capabilities by preventing enemy infiltration. Designed by Kato Kiyomasa, the curved slopes provide superior self-support and earthquake resistance. Despite damage from the 2016 earthquake, many of Kato's original stone walls remained intact, offering expansive views of the castle grounds.

　■ Cherry Blossom Viewing

Kumamoto Castle is famous for its cherry blossoms, with about 800 cherry trees on the grounds. Every spring, numerous tourists visit to enjoy hanami (flower viewing), with the nighttime illumination creating a magical atmosphere. The main cherry blossom varieties are Somei Yoshino and Yamazakura, blooming from late March to early April. Popular viewing spots include Ninomaru Square and the area around Kato Shrine, offering a beautiful contrast between the castle and cherry blossoms.

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 Conclusion 

Kumamoto Castle continues to captivate visitors with its grand structure and rich history. From its construction by Kato Kiyomasa to the present day, the castle has endured many battles and natural disasters, enhancing its value. Ongoing restoration efforts ensure that Kumamoto Castle's legacy is preserved for the future.

When visiting, take the time to appreciate its historical background and beautiful scenery, fully enjoying Kumamoto Castle's charm. It is an important site for understanding Japanese culture and history and will continue to be loved by many.