Hirado Castle

Hirado Castle (平戸城), also known as Kameoka Castle, is a historic castle located in the city of Hirado, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. The castle was originally built in the 17th century on the ruins of an earlier fortification, and served as the seat of the Matsura clan, who ruled over the Hirado Domain during the Edo period.

The castle is renowned for its unique architectural style, which blends traditional Japanese elements with European influences, reflecting Hirado’s history as a major trading port with the West. The castle’s main tower, or tenshu, is a three-story wooden structure with a distinctive red tile roof. Although the original castle was dismantled in the Meiji era, the current structure is a faithful reconstruction completed in 1962.

Visitors to Hirado Castle can explore the castle grounds, which include the main tower, several turrets, gates, and stone walls. The interior of the main tower houses a museum that exhibits artifacts and documents related to the castle’s history and the Matsura clan.

The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the Hirado Strait and the nearby islands. The castle grounds are also home to a beautiful Japanese garden, which is particularly lovely during the cherry blossom season in spring.

Hirado Castle is a significant cultural landmark in Japan, and it is particularly notable for its role in the country’s history as a center of trade and cultural exchange with the West. The castle is a popular destination for tourists interested in Japanese history and architecture, and it offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Getting there

By Bus

From Hirado Bus Terminal:

• 15-20 minute walk to the castle
• Take a bus to Yukokan (猶興館) bus stop:
• 5 minute walk to the castle

By Car

• Free parking lot available next to the tourist information center at the bottom of the hill
• 10 minute uphill walk from the parking lot to the castle gate

Details

Hours	February 1st to September 30th / 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM October 1st to March 31st / 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission	Adults: 520 yen High school students: 310 yen Elementary school and junior high school students: 200 yen
Phone	+81 950-22-2201
Address	1458 Iwanouecho, Hirado, Nagasaki 859-5121
Official Website	https://hirado-castle.jp/