Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hirado Castle (Hirado City) is a historic structure built on a small hill overlooking the city of Hirado Island, and served as the center of politics and defense during the Edo period as the base of the Hirado Domain and Matsuura clan. Hirado was also known as a port town that traded with countries such as the Netherlands and Britain during the Edo period, and is located at the hub of local culture linked to that history of trade and diplomacy.
The castle remains include the main citadel, second citadel, stone walls, and turrets, and from the castle tower (reconstructed) you can see Hirado Port, Hirado Bridge, and Hirado Island's ria coastline. The panoramic view of the cityscape and the scenery interwoven with the sea and castle is a major attraction, making it a popular photo spot. There is also a museum on site that displays historical documents, armor, swords, and more, where you can learn about Hirado's history and trade.
Highlights
- Castle tower and observation deck: A panoramic view of Hirado Port, Hirado Bridge, and the surrounding islands. Beautiful evening and night views.
- Stone walls, main citadel, and second citadel ruins: Enjoy walking around and taking in the atmosphere of the stonework and enclosures that remain throughout the castle hill.
- Document exhibits: There are often exhibits of armor, old maps, and documents related to Hirado's foreign trade (relationships with the Netherlands and Britain).
- Photo spot: The scenery of the port town seen from the castle gate, stone steps, and seawall is perfect for taking photos.
- Seasonal scenery: Cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves, and the beautiful contrast between the sea and the castle.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Public transportation: The nearest public transportation hub is in the Sasebo area. If you are coming from JR Nagasaki, get off at Sasebo Station and take a bus from the Sasebo Bus Center bound for Hirado (takes about 40-60 minutes). Routes and times change depending on the season and day of the week, so please check in advance.
- By car: Take the Nishikyushu Expressway, cross the Hirado Bridge, and head to Hirado city. There is a parking lot at the base of the castle, and you can walk up to the castle from there (we recommend checking the availability and number of parking spaces in advance).
- Taxi: It is also convenient to take a taxi from Sasebo, Hirado Port, or Hirado Pier.
- Note: Public transport may have limited service on some routes, so please check timetables and operating information in advance, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Tour only (view of the castle tower and a quick look at the main exhibits): Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Relaxed viewing (including leisurely walking around the museum and stone walls, and taking photos): Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours
- If you are sightseeing in the surrounding area (castle + surrounding spots): Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Hirado Bridge: A photo spot where you can enjoy the modern bridge and the Hirado seascape.
- Dutch Trading Post Ruins and Historical Sites: A spot that introduces the history of Hirado's overseas trade.
- Matsuura Historical Museum (a museum related to the Matsuura clan): Contains historical materials related to local history and the Matsuura family.
- Hirado's churches and historic townscape: Buildings and old townscape influenced by the introduction of Christianity.
- Hot springs and local gourmet spots: Restaurants serving seafood and local cuisine, day-trip hot springs, etc.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The number of visitors increases during tourist seasons (cherry blossom viewing in spring, Golden Week, autumn foliage viewing) and consecutive holidays. Be aware of crowded parking lots and public transportation.
- Shoes and clothing: There are many stairs, slopes, and stone steps inside the castle, and the ground can be unstable in places, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. It can be slippery in rainy weather.
- Accessibility: As this is a historic site, there are many steps and stairs, and some areas are difficult to navigate with wheelchairs or strollers. Please check the access instructions in advance.
- Exhibits/Photography: There may be some areas of the exhibits within the museum where photography is prohibited. Please follow the signs and instructions of the staff.
- Countermeasures against nature and seasons: There are days when the sea breeze is strong and the temperature feels low. In summer, you will also need to take measures against the sun, heat, mosquitoes, and insects.
- Manners: To protect the historic site, please observe basic manners such as not entering fenced or restricted areas and taking your trash with you.
*Transportation times and operation status, admission fees and opening hours, parking information, etc. may be subject to change, so we recommend checking the latest information on the official website or tourist association before visiting.
