Exclusive Private Tour: Fukue Castle, Japan’s Last Sea Castle

【This is a private plan.】 ・Exclusive Access to a Historic Site This tour offers special access to parts of Fukue Castle, Japan's last sea castle, that are normally closed to the public. It provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look at a significant piece of Japanese history. ・A Deep Cultural Dive with a Local Expert More than just a sightseeing walk, this is a "Goto Cultural Experience." A knowledgeable guide will uncover the hidden stories and secrets of the castle, providing deep insights into the island's unique history and heritage. ・A Special and Artistic Souvenir As a thank you for participating, you will receive a beautifully crafted "Goshi-in" (a castle stamp *Not available for purchase) designed in the traditional Japanese paper-cutting art style called "Kiri-e." This is not a typical souvenir but a unique and artistic memento of your visit.

Itinerary

1. A Stroll Through History: The Samurai Residence Street Located just a short walk from Fukue Castle, this street was once home to the domain's high-ranking samurai. The area's most striking feature is the unique "Kobore-ishi" (spilling stone) walls, where round stones are piled loosely on top of the main walls. It is said that these stones served as a defense mechanism, designed to collapse and make noise if an intruder tried to climb over. The contrast between the mossy stone walls, black wooden fences, and lush greenery creates a serene, nostalgic atmosphere, making you feel as if you have traveled back to the Edo period. (30 min)
2. Discover the ruins of Japan's last sea castle, uniquely surrounded by the ocean on three sides. The highlight is the "Shinji-ga-ike", a traditional garden pond shaped like the Kanji character for "Heart" (心). Framed by local black volcanic rocks and camellias, this National Place of Scenic Beauty offers a tranquil glimpse into the aesthetic world of the Goto samurai. (1h 0min) Admission included

Meeting & end point