TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Fukuoka Castle (commonly known as Maizuru Castle) is a castle ruin located within Maizuru Park in Chuo Ward, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture. Built by Kuroda Nagamasa in the Keicho era (early 17th century), it served as the center of the Chikuzen Fukuoka domain throughout the Edo period. While the castle tower no longer exists, the vast remains of the Honmaru and Ninomaru citadels, stone walls, turrets, and gate ruins remain, and its great appeal lies in the vestiges of history and the relaxed natural surroundings that can be felt despite its location close to the city center.
Highlights
- Stone walls and moat remains: The remains of large stone walls and moats reveal the civil engineering techniques and castle structure of the time. There are also many photo spots.
- Main citadel and castle tower ruins: The main citadel ruins, located on high ground, offer great views of the city and Ohori Park, and you can enjoy seasonal scenery.
- Restored and preserved turrets and gates: You can get a close-up look at the structures of some of the restored and preserved turrets and gates (displays and explanatory boards are available).
- Maizuru Park and Plantings: Known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, it is crowded with many visitors in the spring. You can also enjoy the beautiful walking paths in the autumn foliage season.
- Nearby museums and exhibits: There are exhibits and information signs introducing the castle's history and excavation findings, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the historical site.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: Accessible on foot from either Ohori Park Station or Akasaka Station on the Fukuoka Municipal Subway Airport Line. It is also convenient to travel by subway from Tenjin or Hakata.
- Bus: The nearest bus stops are "Maizuru Park" and "Ohori Park" on the bus route from Tenjin and Hakata.
- By car: There are paid parking lots in the area, but they tend to get crowded during peak tourist seasons and on weekends and spaces are limited, so we recommend using public transportation.
- On foot: It is within walking distance of Ohori Park, Fukuoka Art Museum, and the Tenjin area, making it convenient to visit all of these places at the same time.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Quick tour: 30 minutes to 1 hour (main points only)
- Leisurely stroll and photography: 1-2 hours (including Honmaru and Ninomaru, observation deck, and surrounding parks)
- Take your time and explore the surrounding areas: Half a day to a full day (if you also want to visit Ohori Park, Fukuoka Art Museum, and nearby cafes)
Nearby spots
- Ohori Park: An urban park centered around a large pond, perfect for boating and walking.
- Fukuoka Art Museum: Located in Ohori Park, it hosts regular special exhibitions.
- Cafes and restaurants around Maizuru Park: There are plenty of eateries to stop by during your stroll.
- Tenjin/Nakasu area: Easily go shopping or dine out on foot or by subway.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets very crowded during the cherry blossom season in spring, the autumn leaves season, weekends and holidays. During cherry blossom season, it is best to visit early in the morning or in the evening, or on a weekday to enjoy the view at your leisure.
- Clothing and Walking: There are many stone steps, slopes, and unpaved walking paths, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Be careful in rainy weather as some areas can be slippery.
- Preservation etiquette: Climbing the stone walls and ruins, graffiti, and collecting prohibited vegetation are strictly prohibited. Please cooperate in protecting the historic site.
- Pets: Generally, pets are allowed, but please be considerate of other visitors and clean up their droppings. Please check the rules of each facility.
- Opening hours and facility information: The park itself is open, but the exhibition facilities and parking lot have different opening hours and closing days, so please check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
