Frequently Asked Questions
English answers are machine-translated from the property's Japanese information. Please confirm important details with the property directly.
Or browse the answers we’ve already prepared below.
These answers were written by AI from the property's official website. The property has not checked them. Collected on August 3, 2026. Prices and times may be out of date, so please confirm anything important with the property.
Access (1)
How do I get there from the nearest station?
About 20 minutes' walk from Karatsu Station on the JR Karatsu and Chikuhi lines, or about 7 minutes by taxi or car. By car it is about 40 minutes from Taku IC on the Nagasaki Expressway.
Nearby information (1)
Are there other sightseeing spots nearby?
Karatsu has plenty to see, including Karatsu Shrine, famous for the Karatsu Kunchi festival, the Yobuko morning market with its fresh seafood, and Niji-no-Matsubara, counted among Japan's three great pine groves.
Opening hours (1)
What are the opening hours and closed days?
Open 9:00-17:00 (admission until 16:40). Hours may change by season. Closed 29 to 31 December.
Basic information (1)
Why is it also called Maizuru Castle?
The beach and pine grove (Niji-no-Matsubara) spreading out from the castle look like a crane with its wings spread, which is why it is also known as Maizuru, the dancing crane, Castle. The resemblance is clear from the air or from a distance.
Time needed (1)
How long should I allow?
Allow about 30-60 minutes for the keep. Including a walk around Maizuru Park, you can spend 1-2 hours here.
Prices (1)
How much is admission to Karatsu Castle?
Admission to the keep is 500 yen for general visitors (15 and over), 250 yen for elementary and junior high school students, and free for pre-school children. Groups of 20 or more receive 20 per cent off. Using the Maizuru Park lift costs an extra 100 yen for general visitors and 50 yen for elementary and junior high school students (free for pre-school children and those aged 70 and over).
Facility overview (1)
Do I have to climb steps to reach the keep?
There are 222 stone steps from the entrance up to the keep. However, a lift is installed to the left of the entrance (separate charge), so visitors who find stairs difficult can still reach the keep.
Highlights (3)
Are there flower seasons or events?
In Maizuru Park the cherry blossom is at its best in late March, and the wisteria from late April to early May. Seasonal events such as illuminations are also held; please check the official website.
What is on display inside the keep?
The keep houses a local museum displaying historical material from the Karatsu domain, including Karatsu ware. You can learn about the history and culture of Karatsu.
What is the view from the keep?
From the keep you can look out over the Genkai Sea, Iki Island, the sweeping Niji-no-Matsubara pine grove, Matsuura Bridge and the old castle town of Karatsu. The view is especially fine on a clear day.
Parking (1)
Is there parking?
There is a paid car park with space for about 190 cars and about 5 large vehicles.
Other (6)
What is the address?
8-1 Higashijonai, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture
When is it closed?
29 to 31 December.
How much is admission?
Keep admission: general (15 and over) 500 yen, elementary and junior high school students 250 yen, pre-school children free. Groups of 20 or more receive 20 per cent off.
Is there parking?
Parking is available. Please check the official information for details.
How do I get there?
About 20 minutes' walk or about 7 minutes by car from JR Karatsu Station. About 40 minutes by car from Taku IC on the Nagasaki Expressway.
What are the opening hours?
9:00-17:00 (admission until 16:40; hours may change by season)