Kokura was a castle town that functioned as the starting point to reach many areas in Kyushu.

Kokura was a castle town that functioned as the starting point to reach many areas in Kyushu. (Photo: Perri Silverstein)

Kokura Castle

Exploring the castle grounds

Perri Silverstein Jul 10, 2013 - 1 min read

Kokura was a castle town that functioned as the starting point to reach many areas in Kyushu.

Be sure to wash your hands before entering the shrine area of Tsukimi Tei.

Did you know Tsukimi Tei means "moon viewing pavillion"?

You will be sure to spot some cute kitties wandering the castle grounds.

Here we see many ema—wooden wishing plaques.

Tsuyu (rainy season) brings out the most beauty in the hydrangea flowers.

This little buddy is a komainu (lion-dog), a fixture of Shinto tradition, and he works to guard the inner shrine.

One of the many torii you will find.

No fortress is complete without a cannon.

Modernity and antiquity are forever intertwined in Japan. Pictured here is the Riverwalk Kitakyushu mall and the entrance to Kokura Castle.

The mechanical diorama inside the castle that aims to display the history of Kokura.

On display at the tower of the castle is "Senkyakubanrai," a brushwork painting of a male tiger. One of the largest paintings of its kind.

On the fifth floor of the castle, enjoy 360 degree views of the area.

The pinnacle of Kitakyushu sightseeing is without a doubt Kokura Castle, which today serves as a museum of sorts. Before entering the imposing castle, meander amongst the shrines, torii (traditional Japanese gates) and greenery in the castle park. Make a wish and ring the bells at Tsukimi Tei or pick up an o-mikuji (fortunes written on strips of paper) if you are feeling superstitious. The stark contradiction of the Riverwalk Kitakyushu mall and its angular shapes set against the traditional Japanese sites is perfectly suited for this “land of contrasts.”

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Find out more about Kokura Castle.

Perri Silverstein

Perri Silverstein @perri.silverstein

A free spirit who loves cats, ramen, nail art and of course, travel.