Majestic Southern Landmark

#️⃣ #KumamotoCastle #HistoricCity #Post-EarthquakeRebirth A Magnificent Southern Castle 🏯 Located in the heart of Kumamoto City, Kyushu, Japan, Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan's three most famous castles (along with Nagoya Castle and Osaka Castle). Built in 1607 by the Warring States period general Kato Kiyomasa, the castle boasts an intricate design, renowned for its steep stone walls and magnificent castle tower. Kumamoto Castle serves not only as a fortress of military defense but also as a symbol of Kumamoto's history and spirit. Wandering through Kumamoto City, visitors can admire the towering black castle tower, winding stone walls, and the "Musha-returning" stone walls, once used to repel enemy forces. These unique structures bear witness to the wisdom and fortitude of feudal Japan. The Impact of Earthquakes: Scars of 2016 🌍 In April 2016, two powerful earthquakes struck Kumamoto Prefecture, with the epicenters just over ten kilometers from the city center. Kumamoto Castle bore the brunt of the damage, with many buildings instantly destroyed: • Tiles on the castle tower slid off, leaving large sections of its black-and-white exterior damaged. • Massive stone walls collapsed, and even the once sturdy "Musha-returning" tower could not withstand the forces of nature. • Observation towers collapsed, with the "Uto Turret" at one point in danger. After the earthquake, Kumamoto Castle resembled a scarred warrior. For local residents, this was not only the destruction of cultural heritage but also the loss of their spiritual foundation. The Road to Reconstruction: A Long and Perseverant Journey 🛠️ Following the earthquake, the Japanese government and the city of Kumamoto immediately began emergency repairs. The reconstruction of Kumamoto Castle was not merely a restoration of the buildings, but a cultural and historical revitalization project. • 2019: The exterior of the main castle tower was restored, and it once again stood tall on the Kumamoto skyline, a symbol of rebirth. • 2020: Part of the castle tower's interior will be open to the public, allowing visitors to experience the castle's restoration progress firsthand. • Stonewall Restoration: Due to its massive scale, the project is expected to take over 20 years to complete. The construction team must replace the original stones piece by piece, a meticulous and painstaking task. Today, upon entering Kumamoto Castle, one can still see the large scaffolding and construction areas, but one can also sense the power of "construction in progress"—the castle is gradually being restored to its former majesty. Kumamoto Castle Today: A Symbol of Post-Earthquake Rebirth ✨ Today, Kumamoto Castle has become an international model for post-disaster reconstruction. Visitors can explore the following routes: • Castle Observation Deck: Offers panoramic views of Kumamoto City and the castle grounds. • History Exhibition Hall: Explains the castle's construction history and the extent of the earthquake damage. • Scenic Trail: A dedicated area allows visitors to observe the construction process up close, offering a rare "living history" experience. For locals, Kumamoto Castle is more than just a castle; it symbolizes the indomitable spirit of Kumamoto. Information: 1. Access: Approximately 15 minutes by tram from Kumamoto Station. 2. Best Time: Kumamoto Castle is particularly romantic during the cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn foliage in autumn. 3. Duration: Allow 2–3 hours to fully experience the castle tower and surrounding facilities. 4. Respect the Construction Area: Access to some areas is restricted due to restoration work, so it is recommended to check official announcements in advance. Kumamoto Castle is a renowned castle steeped in history and spirit. From the wisdom of its construction during the reign of Kato Kiyomasa, to the devastation it suffered after the 2016 earthquake, to its resilient recovery today, it bears witness to the power of time, nature, and the human spirit. Visiting Kumamoto Castle is more than just a castle; it is a journey through a story of devastation and rebirth. It reminds us that even in the face of the most severe trials, with perseverance and faith, reconstruction and hope will surely bloom again. 🕰️Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission 4:30 PM) 🏖️Environment/Facilities: Main keep, historical exhibition hall, viewing path, surrounding park, and seasonal flowers 📍Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 860-0002, Japan 💰Average Cost: Adults approximately JPY 800, Children approximately JPY 300