Access the castle from the paid parking lot in front of Karatsu Castle (24-hour operation, starting from ¥100 for the first hour; motorcycles are free). It's a 20-minute walk from the parking lot to the main keep. There's also a paid elevator available. Note that it's a short walk from Karatsu Station. Show route
Op.Hours
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Cld.Days
Irregular holidays
Fee
Adults: ¥500, Children: ¥250, Infants: Free
INFO
The castle keep's interior is made of concrete, five stories high, and lacks an elevator. Exhibits focus on items related to Karatsu, particularly ceramics. The top floor offers excellent views. Photography is prohibited on the 2nd and 3rd floors. Climbing the stairs to the top of the keep rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Karatsu city, Karatsu Bay, Takashima Island, and the Niji-no-Matsubara (Rainbow Pine Grove) stretching out below.
Karatsu Castle, built in 1607, is a historic castle and a symbol of Karatsu City in Saga Prefecture. From the main keep, you can enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Genkai Sea and Nijinonomatsubara, a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty.
Karatsu Castle once thrived as the political center, serving as the residence of the feudal lord of the Saga domain. Today, it's a beloved tourist attraction.
The castle's history began in 1602 when Nabeshima Naoshige became the lord of the Karatsu domain and constructed a castle on the current site. After several renovations, it took on its present form.
The highlight of Karatsu Castle is undoubtedly its magnificent scenery. From the observation deck of the main keep, you can see the Karatsu Bay and the city spreading out before you. The sunset view is especially beautiful and attracts many visitors.
Furthermore, surrounding Karatsu Castle are other tourist spots like Nijinonomatsubara and Karatsu Shrine, making it a perfect destination for a full day of sightseeing.
Nijinonomatsubara is a pine grove stretching south of Karatsu Castle, designated as a national Place of Scenic Beauty. The approximately 4-kilometer-long pine grove is considered one of Japan's three major pine groves, renowned for its beauty. You can enjoy leisurely strolls through the pines, or simply relax and admire the ocean view from within the grove.
Karatsu Shrine, located north of Karatsu Castle, is a shrine that has been long revered by the locals. Its annual autumn festival, "Karatsu-kunchi," held every September, is a vibrant and famous celebration.
Karatsu Castle offers a fantastic blend of history and nature. Visit Karatsu Castle and experience its grandeur and rich history for yourself.
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