What this area is like
Kumamoto Castle was badly damaged in the 2016 earthquakes and again in the July 2026 earthquake; the keep and viewing passage reopened on 13 August 2026 while repairs continue. Suizen-ji Jojuen garden has a miniature Mount Fuji.
Plan your visit
Trams run from Kumamoto Station to the castle and Suizen-ji.
Choose your next step
Places to see in this area
Kumamoto Castle
One of Japan’s great castles, with sweeping curved stone walls. Damaged by the 2016 earthquakes and again by the July 2026 earthquake, it is being repaired while visitors tour the keep.
- Access
- About 10 minutes on foot from the Kumamoto-jo / Shiyakusho-mae tram stop.
- Hours
- The keep and viewing passage reopened on 13 August 2026. Usual hours are 9:00–17:00 (to 19:00 in July–August); some areas may stay closed during repairs.
- Fee
- High school and older ¥800; elementary and junior high ¥300.
- Address
- 1-1 Honmaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto
Check the official site for open areas and entrances before you go; these change as repairs continue.
How to plan your time here
- See the castle in the morning, then ride the tram to Suizen-ji Jojuen garden in the afternoon.
- Kumamoto is about 35 minutes from Hakata by Kyushu Shinkansen. After the 2026 earthquake, check rail and road status toward Aso before setting off.
Information checked 26 October 2026. Plans are JapaLens editorial suggestions, not on-site reviews. Hours and fees can change; check the official page before you go.