The seaside castle known as the Dancing Crane
The centerpiece of Saga Prefecture's city of Karatsu , Karatsu Castle is a hilltop castle. It is also known as "Maizuru Castle," because the castle resembles the head of a crane (or tsuru, in Japanese), and the curving coastline resembles a crane spreading its wings.
Quick Facts
From the observation deck, you'll have a 360-degree view of the city
There is a lush Japanese garden outside, and an abundance of cherry blossoms and wisteria bloom around the castle in spring
How to Get There
From Karatsu Station, you can either take a five-minute cab ride or walk for about 20 minutes.
Water Castle
One unusual feature only seen among a few other castles is that part of this fortress rises directly out of the water. Completed in 1608, the castle originally had no keep. But the Dancing Crane was rebuilt in 1966 and is now a museum showcasing remnants of the domain's samurai past, including displays of armor and weaponry.
The latest information may differ, so please check the official website
* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.