Fukuoka Castle (Maizuru Park)
The grand ruins of Fukuoka Castle in Fukuoka City offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history and provide spectacular views of the surrounding area. Located just a 20-minute walk west from Tenjin Station, the castle is situated within Maizuru Park and is accessible by train, subway, or bus. With its impressive walls and strategic position, Fukuoka Castle played a significant role during the Edo period and was the residence of Fukuoka’s ruling nobility until 1868.
The walls of Fukuoka Castle are immense and serve as a defining feature of the historic site. Several concentric walls lead visitors higher and higher above the city, culminating in a viewing platform at the center. From this platform, visitors can enjoy panoramic 360-degree views of Fukuoka City, showcasing the castle’s strategic importance and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The castle was originally built for the daimyo Kuroda Nagamasa and served as the residence for Fukuoka’s ruling nobility. However, over time, many of the original structures decayed, were demolished, or burned down. Despite this, the inner castle was designated a National Historical Site in 1957, recognizing its cultural significance and historical value.
One of the highlights of visiting Fukuoka Castle is exploring the castle grounds during sakura season. The castle grounds are home to hundreds of cherry trees, and a festival is held every year to celebrate the blooming of these beautiful flowers. During this time, the castle grounds can get crowded with visitors who come to witness the stunning cherry blossoms. However, for the rest of the year, visitors can enjoy the peacefulness and tranquility of the castle grounds without the large crowds.
Adjacent to Fukuoka Castle is Maizuru Park, which offers additional attractions and historical sites to explore. One notable discovery within the park is the ruins of a korokan, an ancient guest house for foreign diplomats. This finding further emphasizes Fukuoka’s importance as a port of entry to japan during the Heian period. The korokan in Maizuru Park is the only one of its kind to be discovered in Japan, making it a unique and significant archaeological site.
In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Maizuru Park also houses several sports facilities, adding to its appeal for visitors of all interests. The park borders Ohori Park to the west, creating a green corridor within the city where visitors can enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
Overall, a visit to Fukuoka Castle and Maizuru Park provides a unique opportunity to delve into Fukuoka’s history and enjoy the beauty of its natural surroundings. Whether it is exploring the grand ruins of the castle, admiring the cherry blossoms during sakura season, or discovering the ancient korokan in Maizuru Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the chance to experience the rich heritage and stunning views that Fukuoka Castle has to offer.
Address And Maps Location:
1 Jonai, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka-ken
Subscribe, follow @idbcpr and idbackpacker.com