History
In reaction to the growing strength of the Chinese in the 7th century, the Yamato Imperial Court began building some defenses and early warning fortifications in Kyushu. Kikuchi Castle is thought to have been built to provide logistical support and reinforcements for Kii and Ono Castles. As the threat from the mainland waned, so did the necessity of these castles and they eventually fell into disrepair.
Visit Notes
In 1997 a grain storehouse and barracks were reconstructed and in 1999 the octagonal tower was rebuilt. The park was designated a National Historical Site in 2004
| Castle Profile | |
|---|---|
| English Name | Kikuchi Castle |
| Japanese Name | 鞠智城 |
| Alternate Names | Kikuchi-jo |
| Founder | Yamato Imperial Court |
| Year Founded | late 7th century |
| Castle Type | Mountaintop |
| Castle Condition | No main keep but other buildings |
| Designations | Next 100 Castles, National Historic Site |
| Historical Period | Pre Edo Period |
| Features | turrets |
| Visitor Information | |
| Access | 60 min bus from Kotsu Center (Kumamoto) |
| Visitor Information | Free; open 9:30am - 5:15pm; closed Mondays except National holidays when it's closed the following day; closed Dec 25 - Jan 4 |
| Time Required | |
| Website | http://www.kofunkan.pref.kumamoto.jp/kikuchijo/index.php |
| Location | Yamaga, Kumamoto Prefecture |
| Coordinates | 33° 0' 8.39" N, 130° 47' 17.95" E |
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| Admin | |
| Added to Jcastle | 2009 |
| Admin Year Visited | Viewer Contributed |
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