Hello there!
This is Maru, your Sarukuma writer 🙂🙃

Today I’d like to introduce you to a wonderful spot located in Ninomaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto City:
“Ninomaru Square” (Ninomaru Hiroba).

It’s such a beloved local gathering spot that it almost needs no introduction (^^;;

But there’s a special seasonal sight you can only see right now, so let me share a quick tour with you (=^^=)

The square sits right next to Kumamoto Castle, and there’s a paid parking lot available.

The space is wide open and dotted with countless trees,
so you’ll see families with kids playing, people enjoying picnics,
and everyone simply relaxing in their own way!

I even remember catching a comedy impersonation show here
by Japanese entertainer Korokke when my parents came to visit 😆

There are some posted requests for visitors to keep in mind.

During the Edo period, this site was home to the residences of high-ranking samurai retainers and the domain school known as “Jishukan.”

Then in the Showa era, schools were built here,
and after they were eventually relocated, the area was transformed into the open square we see today.

These days, a viewing path has been created along the side facing Kumamoto Castle.
It has railings too, so even families with small children can stroll safely.

And of course, just beyond the railing you can catch a great view of Kumamoto Castle as it continues to be restored!

And at the far end of the square, you’ll find a fascinating open-air display of stones beyond the railing!

This particular photo shows stones piled up just outside the square near the Ninomaru Gomon Gate ruins…
but look closely — every single stone is numbered! 😮

I’d heard about it before, but seeing it in person really hits home — what painstaking work this restoration must be.

There are also models and explanations showing how the stone walls are stacked.

You’ll come across genuine historical landmarks that let you really feel the weight of the past.

Recommended Highlights

One of my top picks is this “Grandpa Suda”…

just kidding — it’s a Sudajii (Castanopsis sieboldii)

It’s a type of chinquapin tree. I jokingly nicknamed it “grandpa” because
it just has this dignified, wise old presence! lol
There are several majestic giant trees like this scattered around the square.

Standing in front of these grand old trees,
I couldn’t help but hum that famous Japanese commercial jingle —
“This tree, that tree, oh what a curious tree~ ♪♪”
Though I’m guessing the younger moms out there might not catch the reference (^^;;

Another must-see (which most visitors already know about) is the famous Inui Yagura turret, which can be admired up close from here. It still bears the scars of the earthquake, which is a bit heartbreaking to see.

There were also students here, listening intently to a guide’s explanation.
When older relatives or grandparents come to visit Kumamoto, this would be a perfect place to walk around together.

Right beside the parking lot, there’s a rest area for visitors.
It’s well stocked with vending machines too.

And there’s even a private nursing room with a lock!!

You’ll find a diaper changing station as well.
And if you need hot water for baby formula, the staff will happily prepare it for you.
Talk about thoughtful service!

The restroom near the rest area is currently under construction 💦
It’s scheduled to reopen on December 12th.

There are additional restrooms at the rear of the parking lot as well.
For anything else, please refer to the information board on site.

There’s also a brand-new Ninomaru Ticket Office that has been added to the site.

This is the ticket office for the special viewing path of Kumamoto Castle.
I’ll be sure to introduce that more thoroughly in a future post!

And here’s a heads-up about some upcoming events you won’t want to miss!

From November 20th to December 6th, Ninomaru Square will be glowing with the magical “Take-Akari” Bamboo Light Festival.

The former Hosokawa Gyobu Residence will also open to the public for special viewing along with a stunning autumn-leaf illumination event!

Don’t miss out on these unforgettable autumn experiences~ 🍂🍁

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At Sarukuma, we share lunch spots, parks, and indoor play ideas tailored for families with kids in Kumamoto.
We’d love for you to follow along(*´∀｀*)

Information

Parking	Paid parking lot	Restrooms	Available
Vending Machines	Available	Diaper Changing Station	Available at the rest area
Hand Washing	Available	Suitable Age	From 0 years old
Playground Equipment	None	Allowed Play Items	Balls, etc.
Shaded Areas	Available	Change of Clothes Needed	Not necessary
Water Play	None	Eating in the Park	Allowed
Hazardous Areas	None	Nursing Space	Available at the rest area