Overlook the Castle Town from the Hilltop Shrine Honoring the Kikuchi Clan
About this spot
A shrine honoring the Kikuchi clan, a samurai family that fought valiantly for the Southern Court during the Northern and Southern Courts period in Kyushu, situated on a hilltop at the site of the clan's former castle. Walking up the stone steps along a tree-lined path, the quiet shrine grounds offer a gentle panoramic view of Kikuchi's castle town and pastoral landscapes. The on-grounds history museum houses materials related to the Kikuchi clan, offering the charm of experiencing the story of this clan that prospered in this region for centuries. Also beloved as a flower viewing destination where the path becomes a tunnel of cherry blossoms in spring, you can spend moments enveloped in a dignified atmosphere, quite different from the freshness of the gorge.
Tips
The path features stone pavement and stone steps, so wear comfortable shoes. The shrine grounds are a place of quiet prayer, so take your time and breathe deeply while paying your respects. If time permits, combining a leisurely walk through Kikuchi town at the foot of the shrine is also recommended.
Best time to visit
Approximately 40 minutes required. In the clear morning light, the view of the castle town from the shrine grounds is especially crisp.
Access & map
〒861-1331 Kikuchi-shi, Kumamoto Prefecture, Kumafu 1257
Model course featuring this spot
Kikuchi: Kikuchi Gorge and Kijochi Castle - Clear Streams, Negative Ions, and Ancient Romance
Kumamoto
Explore features & model courses
Like this spot? Sign up free to save it to your own booklet as a plan or a want-to-go.