Fukuoka Castle Ruins and Maizuru Park: The Largest Castle Ruins in Kyushu Built by Kuroda Kanbei

Fukuoka Castle Ruins: Kyushu's Largest Castle Governed by the Kuroda Family

Fukuoka Castle, built on Maizuru Hill in Chuo Ward, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is an early modern castle completed in 1607 by Kuroda Nagamasa (son of Kuroda Kanbei) who distinguished himself at the Battle of Sekigahara. Formerly a massive castle with main, second, and third enclosures, it was demolished under the Meiji castle abolition order, with stone walls, moats, and castle gates remaining today.

Views from the Castle Tower Platform

From the surviving castle tower platform, a grand panorama overlooking Fukuoka city, Hakata Bay, and Noko Island spreads out. Views from the elevated position are particularly beautiful at dusk, with Fukuoka's night scenery also enjoyable.

Cherry Blossoms at Maizuru Park

"Maizuru Park" surrounding Fukuoka Castle ruins is Fukuoka's premier flower-viewing spot with approximately 1,000 cherry trees blooming. The "Fukuoka Castle Cherry Blossom Festival" is held annually from late March to early April, with nighttime cherry blossom illumination also conducted.

Korokan and Dazaifu

On the western side of Fukuoka Castle is the "Korokan Ruins Exhibition Hall," where ruins of the guest house that welcomed foreign envoys during the Nara–Heian period can be viewed.

Access

Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Subway Airport Line "Ohori Koen Station" or "Akasaka Station." Located in Fukuoka city's center, combined tourism with Ohori Park and PayPay Dome is also popular.