VOL.203 MAY 2025
[SPRING SPECIAL ISSUE] VARIOUS VARIETIES OF CHERRY BLOSSOMS IN JAPAN (PART 2): ADMIRING THE CHERRY BLOSSOMS AT CASTLES IN JAPAN
Enjoying the Cherry Blossoms at Kumamoto Castle as Reconstruction Advances
Cherry blossoms with Kumamoto Castle viewed from the Miyukizaka slope in Kumamoto Castle Park.
Kumamoto Castle, an iconic symbol of Kumamoto City, which flourished as a castle town, is known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. We spoke with a person in charge of managing the castle.
Kumamoto Castle is located in the heart of Kumamoto City, facing the Ariake Sea. The city lies in the northwestern part of Kumamoto Prefecture, in the central region of Kyushu. Built in 1607 by KATO Kiyomasa1, who was active from the late 16th to the early 17th century, Kumamoto Castle is a renowned fortress known for its solid defensive structure, showcasing the finest castle construction techniques of the time. One of its defining features is the musha-gaeshi (‘warrior-repelling’) stone walls, which are steeply inclined from bottom to top to prevent enemy invasions.
Kumamoto Castle Park, which houses Kumamoto Castle, boasts many cherry blossom trees. A staff member of the Kumamoto Castle General Office, Kumamoto City Government Office, shares insights into the best spots to view the blossoms: “One of the most famous photo spots at Kumamoto Castle is the Miyukizaka slope, located on the south side. Here, you can enjoy a row of Somei-Yoshino cherry trees. Somei-Yoshino are also planted in front of the castle keep, and many visitors come to photograph the beautiful blossoms with the keep in the background.”
Along the path from Ninomaru Square, located on the west side of the keep, towards the Nishi-otemon Gate, the Somei-Yoshino trees bloom in a tunnel-like formation, creating a stunning spring landscape. It is an ideal place for a leisurely walk while enjoying the flowers.
Approximately 560 cherry trees are planted around Kumamoto Castle. In addition to Somei-Yoshino, visitors can also see varieties such as Yama-zakura, Chihara-zakura, and Gyoiko-zakura2.
“Chihara-zakura is a variety of Yama-zakura that originated in Kumamoto. It is loved by the local people, with its characteristic white petals. These trees are planted near the statue of KATO Kiyomasa and have become a popular photo spot. Additionally, at Sannomaru Park, you can also see Gyoiko-zakura, which blooms with light green flowers.”
Photo: Kumamoto Castle General Office
Kumamoto Castle suffered severe damage in the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake. Since then, efforts to rebuild have been underway, and by 2021, the restoration of the castle keep was completed. Work continues in other areas, but many sections are now open to the public.
“We are holding special tours where visitors can observe the damage and the restoration process of Kumamoto Castle. While the beauty of the cherry blossoms is certainly something to enjoy, we also hope visitors will take notice of the progress being made in the recovery from the Kumamoto Earthquake.”
Photo: Kumamoto Castle General Office
The Kumamoto Castle Spring Festival is held every year in spring. The event showcases performances such as Japanese taiko drumming, offering visitors a chance to experience the region’s history and culture. Also, from late March to late April, the cherry blossoms are illuminated at night, allowing visitors to enjoy hanami (‘cherry blossom viewing’) in a magical atmosphere.
“The night-time cherry blossom illumination is especially recommended. It’s a beautiful scene where Kumamoto Castle and the blossoms come together perfectly.”
With the ongoing restoration of Kumamoto Castle, why not take the opportunity to enjoy the stunning spring views, where cherry blossoms and history come together in a breathtaking scene?
- 1. Born in 1562 and passed away in 1611, he was a warrior who served under TOYOTOMI Hideyoshi and became the lord of Kumamoto Castle in 1588. He focused on the development of rice paddies and trade in Kumamoto. Known for his expertise in castle construction and flood control, he was involved in building other castles as well.
- 2. Chihara-zakura is a variant of the Yama-zakura. It was named after a location in Kumamoto City where it was discovered. The blossoms are large and white. Gyoiko-zakura features pale green flowers, named for their resemblance to the color of ancient costumes worn by nobility (gyoi). (See Rare Pale Green Gyoiko-zakura Cherry Blossom Trees, in the April 2024 issue of HIGHLIGHTING Japan)
- 3. A three-story wooden castle structure located at the northwest corner of Kumamoto Castle’s keep.
By TANAKA Nozomi
Photo: Kumamoto Castle General Office; PIXTA