What is Nakatsu Castle?
Nakatsu Castle (Nakatsu-jō) is a historic castle located in Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture, and is known as one of Japan’s three great "water castles."
The castle was built by the famous Sengoku-era commander Kuroda Kanbei (Kuroda Kanbee), and later the Hosokawa and Okudaira clans served as its lords.
✅ A spectacular spot also called the “castle floating on the sea”!
✅ A historic site linked to Kuroda Kanbei
✅ Houses valuable historical materials and displays of arms and armor!
Nakatsu Castle is recommended not only for history lovers but also for travelers who want to enjoy stunning scenery!
Highlights of Nakatsu Castle
1. The beautiful scenery known as the “castle floating on the sea”
Nakatsu Castle is counted among the three great water castles of Japan (Nakatsu Castle, Takamatsu Castle, and Imabari Castle).
At high tide seawater flows around the castle, making it appear as if the castle is floating on the sea.
Recommended photo spots
- The outer moat: The reflection of Nakatsu Castle on the water is beautiful!
- Observation spots near the river mouth: Enjoy views that change with low and high tide
You can enjoy photogenic scenery where history and nature blend together!
2. A castle associated with Kuroda Kanbei
Nakatsu Castle was built by the brilliant Sengoku-era strategist Kuroda Kanbei.
He served under Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and is known for laying the foundations of the Fukuoka Domain.
Points of interest for history fans
- Exhibition rooms inside the main keep (tenshukaku) where you can see armor and weapons related to the Okudaira family
- The castle museum where you can learn about Sengoku-period tactics and castle structure
It’s a place where you can feel Kanbei’s strategic genius and the history of the Sengoku period!
3. Spectacular views from the main keep
The current Nakatsu Castle was rebuilt in the Showa period, but the views from the main keep are breathtaking.
From the top floor of the castle you can see the distant mountains, Nakatsu City, and the sea all at once.
Recommended scenic viewpoints
- View of the Seto Inland Sea from the castle: The contrast of the blue sea and the castle is beautiful!
- Nighttime illumination: Enjoy Nakatsu Castle in a magical atmosphere
Especially at sunset, the golden sea and the castle silhouette make an unforgettable view!
4. Plenty of nearby sightseeing spots
Near Nakatsu Castle there are many places where you can feel history and enjoy local cuisine.
Recommended nearby sights
- Former residence of Yukichi Fukuzawa / Fukuzawa Memorial Hall (a museum honoring the great person born in Nakatsu)
- Ao no Dōmon (Blue Cave) (a tunnel hand-carved during the Edo period)
- Yabakei (a spectacular spot famous for autumn foliage)
The Nakatsu area is a place where you can enjoy history, nature, and culture all at once!
Enjoy Nakatsu’s local specialties too!
Nakatsu is famous nationwide as the holy land of karaage (fried chicken)!
You can also enjoy seafood from the Bungo Strait.
Recommended local dishes
- Nakatsu karaage: Juicy fried chicken often called Japan’s best karaage
- Oysters from the Buzen Sea: Fresh seafood to enjoy in winter
- Grilled mackerel sushi (yaki-saba sushi): Delicious sushi made with rich mackerel
After sightseeing, try the local flavors!
Practical information for travelers
1. Access to Nakatsu Castle
By train
- About a 15-minute walk from JR “Nakatsu Station”
By bus
- Using Nakatsu city tourist buses is convenient
By car (parking available)
- About 1 hour by car from Oita Airport
- About 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Fukuoka City
2. Recommended accommodations
Recommended hotels & ryokan
- Grand Plaza Nakatsu Hotel (convenient, close to the station)
- Nakatsu Sunrise Hotel (affordable and comfortable)
- Hachimen-yama Kogane Onsen Kogane Sanso (a hot-spring inn)
Staying overnight is a great way to fully enjoy Nakatsu’s charms!
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
✅ Nakatsu Castle offers spectacular views as a “castle floating on the sea”
✅ A historic castle linked to Kuroda Kanbei
✅ Attractions include views from the main keep and nighttime illumination
✅ Local specialties like Nakatsu karaage are delicious!
✅ Nearby attractions such as the former residence of Yukichi Fukuzawa and Yabakei are also great
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to visit Nakatsu Castle?
A: If you only tour the castle and main keep, it takes about 30–40 minutes, but if you visit the museum and nearby sights you’ll need about 2–3 hours.
Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Spring (cherry blossom season) and autumn (fall foliage) are particularly recommended!
Q: How much is the admission fee to Nakatsu Castle?
A: Adults 400 yen, elementary and junior high students 200 yen (subject to change)
Please visit Nakatsu Castle to enjoy both history and spectacular views!
