Discover Usuki Castle Ruins – A National Historic Site in Kyushu’s Castle Town

On May 4th, Usuki Castle Site, which was officially designated as a National Historic Site this March, hosted a commemorative event filled with rich historical experiences that delighted history enthusiasts.

Guided Tours Reveal Centuries of Castle History

Highlights of the event included guided tours led by the city's curators, offering insights into Usuki Castle’s fascinating history. Visitors learned about Otomo Sorin’s construction of the castle on the former island of Niu in 1556, the successive changes brought by the Ota and Inaba clans, and the castle’s transformation over the centuries.

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Scenic View of Usuki Castle Ruins

Rare Edo-Era Turrets Open to the Public

Special access was granted to the Tatami Turret and the Utono Gate Turret—rare structures from the Edo period, featuring intricate tiered designs known as Jubako-zukuri. Only five examples of this style remain in Japan, two of which are preserved at Usuki Castle.

Rare Turret at Usuki Castle Ruins

A man in samurai attire outside the turret

Rare Turret at Usuki Castle Ruins

Rare Turret at Usuki Castle Ruins

Rare Turret at Usuki Castle Ruins

Rare Turret at Usuki Castle Ruins

Rare Turret at Usuki Castle Ruins

Cannons, Matchlocks, and Samurai Style: History Comes Alive

Spectacular performances by the Bungo Otomo Sorin Gun Squad showcased thunderous cannon demonstrations and authentic matchlock rifle reenactments, including the “nation-breaking” cannon act. Guests also had the chance to experience the weight of matchlock rifles and try on samurai helmets and battle garments, adding an interactive touch to the historical ambiance.

Cannon and Matchlock Performance Outside Usuki Castle Ruin

Cannon and Matchlock Performance Outside Usuki Castle Ruin

Cannon and Matchlock Performance Outside Usuki Castle Ruin

Cannon and Matchlock Performance Outside Usuki Castle Ruin

Cannon and Matchlock Performance Outside Usuki Castle Ruin

The event drew large crowds both in the morning and afternoon sessions, exceeding capacity and highlighting the community’s enthusiasm for celebrating Usuki’s history. Thank you to everyone who joined us in making this day unforgettable!