Karatsu Castle
Karatsu Castle things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Located in the quaint Japanese city of Karatsu, Karatsu Castle is a magnificent historical treasure that entices tourists with its alluring aura. Japan's rich feudal heritage is reflected in its striking Edo-period architecture and famous black front. The enormous magnificence of the castle, situated against a backdrop of tranquil gardens and a surrounding moat, will astound you as you approach. History buffs will discover a wealth of displays, relics, and documents that vividly depict the lives and times of the castle's previous residents within the castle. Visitors can experience firsthand what it was like to live in a Japanese feudal castle thanks to the well-preserved apartments and hallways. The chance to climb to the higher floors of Karatsu Castle and take in expansive views of the city and the charming coastline is one of its highlights. When the surrounding sakura trees flower in the cherry blossom season, the view from the summit is particularly stunning. Karatsu Castle is a fascinating and informative experience, but be aware that, in comparison to other Japanese castles of a similar size, the interior may feel a little cramped. Still, this doesn't take away from the castle's and its surrounds' overall charm.
Manpreet SinghManpreet Singh
10
Pro: it's a beautiful castle that dominates the local landscape. It has amazing views. The 2 hr bus from Fukuoka was worth it just to see the view from the top deck of the castle. There's an incredible view of the sea and nearby islands on one side, and rivers and mountains on the other. The castle is beautiful from the outside, and the entrance was relatively cheap at ¥500. Also, the place is climate controlled. The exhibits have a decent range of pottery, swords, armour, and graphics depicting the region's history. Con: this is a rebuilt castle with a bad interior design, with the tiling looking like it's from a bathroom from the 1990s. There aren't many views until you get to the top deck , because they've remodelled the interior to be more of a museum. For the museum: There is almost no english, and the QR code you scan to read more about the castle asks you to download an app that currently isn't working ( at least on my phone which is a Google Pixel 8). They should just make the place bilingual with Japanese and English so it is easier for the majority of foreign tourists. If you don't care about history, this point won't bother you too much.
Nathan fNathan f
30
I couldn’t fault this place, I absolutely loved it. As good as Himeji castle! Very informative displays about the area and castle, and wonderful views from the top of the castle. Affordable entry, and no crowds! A genuine hidden gem of Japan. There is an elevator around the back which will take you half way up for 100 yen - recommended. Great for the mobility impaired, because even great views are afforded from the elevated courtyard. Check out the map near the stairs to find out where it is (you walk past the school on your left). Admission was 500 yen. There is an official app you can download, which interacts with QR codes displayed throughout the exhibit. This shows the information displayed on the wall in English (no other languages available). Don’t catch the elevator back, because there is lots to see on the walk down. Just be mindful of the stairs. They’re older than time (some would be original I assume), and I almost rolled my ankle coming down. Hold on to the rail. Definitely scope this one out if you’re in the area. It’s roughly 90 mins from Fukuoka by car.
Evalyn VentureEvalyn Venture
10
Karatsu castles is one of the great tourist point in Karatsu, Saga, Japan. Lots of people visit through out the weekend and normal days. Karatsu castle remind us of the old Japan when the past kings were ruling the kingdom. In Karatsu castle there are two floors which have some ancient pottery collection as well as old swords, spears and the culture of Japan's people. Scenery from the tower's top floor is Marvelous. You can see Karatsu town as well as the ocean which is spectacular view. The most amazing thing is that there is a veil tree is more than 140 years old and people are still trying to save that tree. Overall Karatsu castle is one of the most beautiful castle I have ever seen. Definitely going to visit again.
Anil JariyaAnil Jariya
20
This was a tough location to rate because I did enjoy it, but it wasn't as informational as Osaka castle nor did the gift shop have Yuri on Ice merch or much of anything that I was interested in bringing back as a souvenir. I would say that it was hard to get to, but Osaka castle was as well, as goes any castle of this design. If you're in the area and looking for something to do then this is a nice option. If you're into YOI then it's fun, they have cut outs from the show. Getting pictures with the castle in the background though are really the money shots.
Shannon KaudererShannon Kauderer
30
The views from the FREE garden are awesome, wondering there was very relaxing. A bit steep so be ready to sweat if it’s hot 😁 I actually didn’t pass the paying point (first floor inside the castel is free too) since after seeing a lot of japanese castel they look really similar from the inside to me. The view from the top might be worth it though. Once you’re back down i’ve been to the beach near by, gives a very nice picture with the sea/beach/hill with the castle on top.
Peregrin RIFIANOPeregrin RIFIANO
10
Nearby Attractions Of Karatsu Castle
Karatsu Shrine
Former Karatsu Bank
Former Takatori Residence
Former Oshima Residence
Nishinohama Beach
Kawamura Art Museum
Karatsu Shrine
4.2
(607)Click for details
Former Karatsu Bank
4.3
(332)Click for details
Former Takatori Residence
4.4
(279)Click for details
Former Oshima Residence
4.1
(85)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Karatsu Castle
Genyou
うなぎ 竹屋
Tea & Space Kikouan
ガスト 唐津店
居酒屋大八車
Kameyama
Nagisakan Kimura
Dondon-tei Karatsu
Ryukoken
スタンドニュー丸八(まるはちラーメン)
Genyou
4.1
(486)Click for details
うなぎ 竹屋
4.5
(311)Click for details
Tea & Space Kikouan
4.4
(218)Click for details
ガスト 唐津店
3.6
(235)Click for details
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
8-1 Higashijonai, Karatsu, Saga 847-0016, Japan
Map
Phone
+81 955-72-5697
Call
Website
karatsujo.com
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.1
(2.8K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
Description
Karatsu Castle is a Japanese castle located in Karatsu, Saga Prefecture, Japan. It is a hirayamajiro, a castle built on a plain rather than a hill or mountain. At the end of the Edo period, Karatsu castle was home to the Ogasawara clan, daimyō of Karatsu Domain. It was also known as "Dancing Crane Castle".
attractions: Karatsu Shrine, Former Karatsu Bank, Former Takatori Residence, Former Oshima Residence, Nishinohama Beach, Kawamura Art Museum, restaurants: Genyou, うなぎ 竹屋, Tea & Space Kikouan, ガスト 唐津店, 居酒屋大八車, Kameyama, Nagisakan Kimura, Dondon-tei Karatsu, Ryukoken, スタンドニュー丸八(まるはちラーメン)
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