The massive walls and black keep of Kumamoto Castle rarely fail to impress, but they aren't the only highlight on the castle grounds. During the Edo Period (1603-1868), this one-story structure just outside the main keep was used as a residence for daimyo lords and their families. It burned down during the Satsuma Rebellion of 1877 but has been painstakingly rebuilt - often incorporating original artifacts where possible - over the course of the last decade. An absolute must-see are the painted walls and doors of the reception rooms.
Mandy Bartok @mandy.bartok
Japan resident for 10 years, with time spent in Okinawa, Kumamoto and Tokyo.
