Shimabara Castle — Attraction in Shimabara

This is the 18th castle I have visited in Japan; historically, I could relate more with this castle mainly because of the fact that I am a Christian. The history of this castle dates back to the rebellion of the Christian community in this part of Japan against the Tokugawa Shogunate that had pursued a policy of discrimination against those of the Christian faith, it was the largest scale rebellion that the Tokugawa government had faced in there 200 year rule of Japan. This castle has extensive history on the events of that rebellion, the deployment of forces to intercept and defend against the government forces, it also has a collection of samurai and western-inspired weapons and armory that were used by soldiers and rebels of the time. The failure of that rebellion led to the enforcement of the proscription of Christians and forceful conversion, and subsequent torture of those that refused to abandon the Christian faith. The official document which outlawed Christianity in Japan is also showcased within this castle and has been perfectly preserved. What struck me the most were the many depictions of the torture and killing of Christians in this region which has an active volcano, and the great lengths that Japanese Christians went through to practice Christianity, even going as far as to mask Christian images and statues to look like those of the Buddhist faith. Due to the lack of foreign missionaries for many years, Christianity in Japan took on a new face and new images of Mary the mother of Christ and even Jesus himself were used in place of those well recognizable by the Roman Catholic Church.

Generally, it was a highly educative trip and entry into this castle cost 400 yen. I highly recommend a visit by castle enthusiasts, Japanese history enthusiasts, and...

We made a short detour to visit Shimabara Castle, and I’m so glad we did. It’s not as famous as some of Japan’s bigger castles, but it has its own quiet charm and unique history. The white five-tiered keep rises gracefully over the surrounding town, and the moat and stone walls give it a classic, picture-perfect look. Even from the outside, it was already beautiful.

Inside the castle, the atmosphere was calm and unhurried—no big crowds, which made it easy to take our time. The exhibits inside were more than just your typical historical displays. They focused a lot on the Christian history of the region, the Shimabara Rebellion, and local samurai culture, which gave it a different flavor compared to other castles I’ve visited. I learned a lot, especially about the hidden Christian communities during the Edo period.

Climbing up the keep, each floor had something different to offer—from armor displays to old photographs—and at the top, we were rewarded with sweeping views of Shimabara city and even glimpses of Mount Unzen in the distance. It was peaceful and surprisingly scenic.

The castle grounds were also worth exploring. There were a few small museums nearby and a tranquil garden area. Everything was well maintained, and the staff were warm and welcoming. It felt like one of those under-the-radar spots that deserves more attention.

Shimabara Castle might not have the grandeur of Osaka or Himeji, but its history runs deep and its quiet elegance leaves a strong impression. If you’re in Nagasaki Prefecture or near Unzen, it’s absolutely...

Historical Gem – Beautiful Experience at Shimabara Castle

Visiting Shimabara Castle was a fascinating and enriching experience! The castle is an impressive structure, meticulously restored, and offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal history. Its towering white walls and traditional architecture are a striking sight, set against the backdrop of beautiful landscapes.

The interior of the castle is equally impressive. It houses an excellent museum with exhibits on the local history, samurai culture, and the Christian rebellion, which makes Shimabara such an important historical site. The artifacts, armor, and swords on display were captivating, giving insight into the lives of the people who once lived here.

The top floor offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains, which was one of the highlights of my visit. It’s a peaceful and scenic spot to take in the natural beauty of the area.

The castle grounds are well-kept and lovely to walk around, especially the serene gardens and moat. If you visit during cherry blossom season, the atmosphere becomes even more magical with blooming sakura trees framing the castle.

Overall, Shimabara Castle is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience a piece of Japan’s cultural heritage. The blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty makes for an...