What to know
The ruins of Fukuoka Castle (福岡城跡, Fukuokajōato) sit in central Maizuru Park, named after the castle's alias, Maizuru Castle. During the Edo Period (1603–1868), it was the largest castle on Kyushu, but it was almost entirely dismantled after the Meiji Restoration as an unwanted symbol of the feudal past. Today, only ruined walls and a few turrets remain.
Fukuoka Castle was built in the early 17th century by Kuroda Nagamasa, who became lord of the Chikuzen domain (part of modern Fukuoka Prefecture) after supporting Tokugawa Ieyasu at the Battle of Sekigahara. The Kuroda clan ruled from the castle for over 200 years until the feudal system was abolished in 1870.
The best time to visit is usually from late March to early April, when Maizuru Park becomes the city's top cherry blossom spot. Many walking paths are lined with cherry trees, creating a tunnel of flowers, and there are plenty of grassy areas for hanami parties under the blossoms.
Among the few surviving or reconstructed castle buildings are some gates and guard towers scattered across the grounds. Parts of the moat system also remain, most noticeably along Maizuru Park's northern border and in front of the pond in neighboring Ohori Park.
The Fukuoka Castle Ruins are a 10–15 minute walk from Ohori Koen Subway Station.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Always open
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- Free (except during seasonal illumination events)
- English name
- Original name
- Fukuoka Castle Ruins
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.