Nagoya Castle Ruins

Nagoya Castle was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi as a base for the Japanese invasions of Korea (the Bunroku–Keicho campaigns). For seven years—from the start of the war in 1592 (Bunroku 1) until Hideyoshi’s death and the subsequent withdrawal of the daimyo—Nagoya Castle served as the main headquarters. The castle grounds covered about 17 hectares, making it one of the largest in Japan at the time. Today, the Nagoya Castle ruins and 23 related historic sites scattered within a 3 km radius are designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan. Next to the ruins is the Nagoya Castle Museum, where exhibits cover the culture and history centered on the castle as well as preservation and maintenance projects. Excavations are still ongoing, and you can view excavation progress and reconstructions via the “VR Nagoya Castle App,” making it enjoyable even on a smartphone. The museum also rents tablets so you can learn in greater depth. Access: by car, about 30 minutes from Karatsu via National Route 204, or about 70 minutes from Taku IC (Nagasaki Expressway) via Routes 203 and 204. By public transportation, take a bus bound for Yobuko from JR Chikuhi Line “Nishi-Karatsu Station,” get off at “Nagoya Castle Museum Entrance,” or take a taxi about 5 minutes from the “Yobuko” bus stop.