Karatsu Castle (“Dancing Crane Castle”)
Karatsu Castle, the iconic landmark of Karatsu City, was constructed over three years by Terasawa Hirotaka, the first lord of the Karatsu domain, and completed in 1608. Strategically built on a peninsula surrounded by the sea on three sides and supplemented by water moats, the castle was later dismantled in 1871 following the abolition of the feudal domain system. The site was eventually converted into a public park, and the main keep was reconstructed in 1966 as a cultural tourism facility.
The castle’s design is both imposing and poetic: its five-story main tower is flanked by two stretches of coastline that evoke a crane with outstretched wings, earning it the nickname “Dancing Crane Castle.” Inside, the keep houses historical exhibits including samurai-era documents, weapons, armor, and examples of Karatsu pottery. The fifth floor serves as an observation deck, offering panoramic views of the sea. Visitors can access the main keep via stone steps or an elevator.
Surrounded by cherry trees, wisteria, and other seasonal flora, the castle grounds also function as a scenic flower park, blending history with natural beauty throughout the year.
English Official Site: Karatsu Castle https://karatsujo.com/en/
English Official Site about Karatsu: Karatsu https://www.karatsu-kankou.jp/en/
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