Kumamoto

Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan's three most important and spectacular castles, along with Himeji and Matsumoto. Originally built in 1607 by the feudal lord Katō Kiyomasa, it is a symbol of resilience due to its imposing military architecture and its recent restoration following the devastating 2016 earthquake (a special elevated walkway allows visitors to closely observe the reconstruction work without interfering with the construction)..It is famous for its curved stone walls, called musha-gaeshi, specifically designed to prevent enemies from scaling them. The complex features a six-story main keep (Daitenshu) and a smaller auxiliary keep (Shotenshu). The grounds are home to approximately 800 cherry trees, making it a prime destination during sakura (cherry blossom) season between late March and early April.