日本最大級の門です
1 / 10

Tsurumaru Castle Ruins

4.6
·491k reviews·Kagoshima, Japan

Explore the historic remnants of Tsurumaru Castle, once the seat of the powerful Shimazu clan, offering a glimpse into feudal Japan.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
日本最大級の門です

Tsurumaru Castle Ruins

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the historic remnants of Tsurumaru Castle, once the seat of the powerful Shimazu clan, offering a glimpse into feudal Japan.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A peaceful historical site with impressive stone walls and beautiful adjacent gardens."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The grounds have uneven terrain, so good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Visit Sengan-en Garden

Combine your castle visit with the adjacent Sengan-en Garden for stunning views and history. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tsurumaru Castle Keep Site

Tsurumaru Castle Keep Site

Central area of the ruins

Imagine the former grandeur of the castle keep. The foundation stones offer a glimpse into its past scale.

Castle Moat and Walls

Castle Moat and Walls

Perimeter of the ruins

Walk along the impressive stone walls and imagine the defensive strategies of feudal Japan.

Sengan-en Garden Views

Sengan-en Garden Views

Adjacent to the castle ruins

Enjoy scenic views of the castle ruins framed by the beautiful Sengan-en Garden.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Tsurumaru Castle Ruins

To avoid the midday sun and larger tour groups, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the grounds. Consider checking local event schedules for festivals that might impact crowds.

Navigating the Castle Grounds

Tsurumaru Castle Ruins are primarily an outdoor historical site. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. While there are informational signs, consider downloading a local history app or guide for a richer understanding of the site's significance.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Cooler temperatures, fall colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

MATCHA FINDS ON AMAZON PT. 14 ✿ matcha brand: kimikura tea’s kagoshima blend _____ #matcha #matchatok #amazonmatcha #matchafinds #matchagirl #matchareview #matchalover #matchalatte #amazonfinds #amazon
@emwada
72.5K likes • 795.3K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The grounds have uneven terrain, so good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Visit Sengan-en Garden

Combine your castle visit with the adjacent Sengan-en Garden for stunning views and history. :camerawithflash:

truly my favorite organic matcha powder i’ve found thus far. trust me on this one. i’ve tried 100000s :) Kimikura Matcha Kagoshima #matcha #organicmatcha #matchapowder #matchalatte
@itsemmygirl
24.4K likes • 259.3K views
11 April 2024. Kagoshima, Japan 🇯🇵. #ultimateworldcruise #royalcaribbean #RoyalComeback #serenadeoftheseas #worldcruise2023 #worldcruise2024 #usa #singapore #indonesia #malaysia #asia #joytotheworldsg #solotravel #lifegoals #solofemaletravelers #sgtravel #fyp #trending #viral #kagoshima #japan #Audreyhepburn #kagoshimacitymuseumofart #japanesecuisine🇯🇵 #nabehotpot #tsurumarucastleruins #statueo...
joytotheworldsg
5 likes • 85 views

Learn Local History

Consider a guided tour or app to fully appreciate the historical significance. :world_map:

Hydrate Well

Especially in warmer months, carry water as you explore the open grounds. :droplet:

📍Kirishima, Kagoshima #et_recommends Discover the rich history and breathtaking views of Kirishima, Kagoshima! 🇯🇵✨ From the historic sites linked to the legendary Saigo Takamori to the stunning hot springs, Kirishima offers an unforgettable experience for history buffs and travelers alike. Enjoy a soak in an affordable Airbnb with a private onsen and explore these must-see spots: 🗺️ Highlights: *...
explore_translation
6 likes • 323 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The grounds have uneven terrain, so good walking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Visit Sengan-en Garden

Combine your castle visit with the adjacent Sengan-en Garden for stunning views and history. :camerawithflash:

Learn Local History

Consider a guided tour or app to fully appreciate the historical significance. :world_map:

Hydrate Well

Especially in warmer months, carry water as you explore the open grounds. :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the expansive grounds of Tsurumaru Castle Ruins, offering a glimpse into Kagoshima's past. The adjacent Sengan-en Garden is frequently praised for its beauty and scenic views. Some visitors note that the ruins themselves are primarily stone remnants, so managing expectations for grand structures is key.

What People Like

Historical atmosphere
Expansive grounds
Scenic views (with Sengan-en)

What People Dislike

Mostly stone remnants

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Kagoshima Chuo Station, you can take a local bus towards the city center. Several bus lines stop near the castle ruins. Alternatively, a taxi will take approximately 10-15 minutes. :bus: :taxi:

Yes, there is a parking lot available for visitors. However, it can fill up during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended. :car:

It's a pleasant walk if you are staying in the central Kagoshima area, taking about 20-30 minutes. Enjoy the city sights along the way! :walking:

The closest tram stop is 'Tsurumaru Castle Entrance' (Tsurumaru-jo Iriguchi), which is a short walk from the ruins. :tram:

From Kagoshima Airport, take the airport limousine bus to Kagoshima Chuo Station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to the castle ruins. :airplane: :bus:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Tsurumaru Castle Ruins themselves are generally free to enter and explore. However, any adjacent museums or specific garden areas might have admission fees. :ticket:

The castle ruins are typically open from morning until early evening. It's best to check the official Kagoshima City website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally. :clock:

Yes, Sengan-en Garden, located adjacent to the castle ruins, does have an entrance fee. It's a separate attraction with its own ticket pricing. :yen:

The castle ruins are generally not illuminated or accessible after dark. It's recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the site. :moon:

As the ruins are free, there are no discounts. However, combo tickets might be available if you plan to visit Sengan-en Garden and other local attractions. :discount:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the remnants of the castle's stone walls, the moat, and the foundation of the former keep. Informational signs provide historical context. :stone: :water_wave:

A visit to the ruins themselves can take about 1-2 hours, depending on your interest. If you plan to also visit Sengan-en Garden, allocate an additional 2-3 hours. :stopwatch:

Restroom facilities are usually available near the entrance or visitor information areas. :toilet:

The main paths are relatively flat, but some areas may have uneven terrain or stairs. It's advisable to check accessibility information beforehand if you have specific concerns. :wheelchair:

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! Capture the historical atmosphere and scenic views. :camerawithflash:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there might be small snack stands or cafes within the adjacent Sengan-en Garden, the castle ruins themselves do not typically have dining facilities. :coffee:

The area around the castle and Sengan-en Garden offers various dining options, from traditional Japanese cuisine to casual eateries. Explore the nearby streets for local specialties. :ramen: :sushi:

Picnicking is usually permitted in designated areas, but it's always good practice to clean up after yourself and respect the historical site. :sandwich:

Don't miss trying Kurobuta pork (Kagoshima black pork), Satsuma-age (fried fish cake), and local shochu. :pork: :fish_cake:

Many Japanese restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes like tempura or tofu. It's best to inquire about specific dietary needs when ordering. :leafy_green:

📸 📸 Photography

The stone walls, the moat, and the panoramic views from higher points are excellent for photography. The juxtaposition of ruins with nature is also very photogenic. :camera:

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities for capturing architectural details. :sunrise: :sunset:

Drone usage is typically restricted in historical sites and public parks to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. Always check local regulations before flying. :drone:

Focus on the scale of the remaining walls and the strategic placement of the moat to convey the castle's defensive past. :shield:

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide shots and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive grounds. :camerawithflash:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tsurumaru Castle Ruins offer a great outdoor space for families to explore. Kids can enjoy running around the open grounds and imagining knights and samurai. The scale of the stone walls can spark their imagination about historical defenses. Reddit While there aren't specific play areas, the historical aspect can be made engaging with storytelling about the Shimazu clan. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the park-like setting. Reddit

Pairing the visit with the adjacent Sengan-en Garden can also be beneficial, as the garden offers more visual interest with its landscapes and teahouses. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the moat and any elevated areas. Comfortable shoes are a must for little explorers navigating the historical terrain. :child: :parkwithtrees:

🚶 Budget Travelers

Tsurumaru Castle Ruins are an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as the main castle grounds are free to enter. Reddit This allows for a significant historical experience without any admission cost. You can spend hours exploring the remnants of the castle walls and moat. :moneywithwings:

To keep costs down, pack your own snacks and water, or look for local convenience stores for affordable refreshments. Reddit While Sengan-en Garden has an entrance fee, it's often considered worthwhile for its beauty and views. Consider purchasing a combined ticket if available for other Kagoshima attractions to save money. Public transportation, like buses and trams, are generally inexpensive ways to reach the site. :bus: :tram:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Tsurumaru Castle

Tsurumaru Castle, originally known as Kagoshima Castle, was the seat of the powerful Shimazu clan, rulers of the Satsuma domain for centuries. Construction began in the early 17th century, and it served as the clan's primary residence and administrative center. The castle was designed with a unique 'Tsurumaru' (crane's circle) layout, featuring a central keep surrounded by a series of moats and walls, a testament to its strategic importance. It played a significant role in Japanese history, particularly during the Meiji Restoration.

While the original wooden structures were largely destroyed by fire in 1873, the impressive stone walls and moats remain, offering a tangible connection to its past. The site is now a public park, allowing visitors to walk through the historical grounds and imagine the castle as it once stood. The adjacent Sengan-en Garden, also a Shimazu estate, provides a beautiful contrast and further insight into the clan's lifestyle and aesthetic sensibilities. InstagramReddit

Exploring Tsurumaru Castle Ruins is an opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the architectural ingenuity and historical weight of feudal Japan. The scale of the remaining fortifications hints at the castle's former might and the influence of the Shimazu clan. It's a place where history whispers from the stones, inviting contemplation and discovery. Reddit

Exploring the Castle Grounds and Sengan-en Garden

The Tsurumaru Castle Ruins are primarily an open-air historical site. Visitors can wander through the remnants of the castle's formidable stone walls and the expansive moat system. The foundation of the main keep is still visible, giving a sense of the castle's original scale and grandeur. Informational plaques are scattered throughout the grounds, providing context about the castle's history and its significance to the Shimazu clan. Comfortable footwear is essential, as the terrain can be uneven in places. Reddit

Adjacent to the castle ruins lies the exquisite Sengan-en Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden that was once part of the Shimazu villa. This garden offers breathtaking views of Kagoshima Bay and Sakurajima volcano, often framed by the castle's remaining structures. Instagram Visitors can stroll through meticulously maintained gardens, enjoy traditional teahouses, and learn about the unique 'borrowed scenery' (shakkei) technique employed in its design. The combination of historical ruins and the serene beauty of Sengan-en Garden provides a well-rounded cultural and scenic experience. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2