Kokura Castle was built in 1602 by Hosokawa Tadaoki.

This castle’s keep has a distinctive architectural feature called “karazukuri” in which the 5^th floor is bigger than the 4^th floor; at the time of its construction, it was the only castle of its kind in Japan.

In addition, it has a style of stone wall called “nozura-zumi,” which uses natural stone instead of quarried stone, and eight separate gates, such as the Otemon Gate and Keyakimon Gate.

There are also many things to see inside the castle itself, including a learning zone with introductions to the history and culture of Kokura Castle, and an observation zone with panoramic views over Kokura.

And it is also renowned for its 300 cherry trees, which bloom in spring, and the autumn colors of zelkova and gingko trees.