Sannomaru Square

Welcome to Sannomaru Square, a space that serves as both a literal and figurative threshold between the various eras of Fukuoka's history. In the traditional layout of a Japanese castle, the Sannomaru, or 'Third Bailey,' was the…

Adjacent to the square is the Korokan Ruins Museum, a facility built directly over the excavated remains of the ancient diplomatic guest house. This is one of the few places in Japan where you can see the actual foundations of a…

As you stand in the square, look toward the south at the massive stone walls that mark the entrance to the inner castle. These walls were built using the 'uchi-maki' technique, where the core of the wall is filled with earth and…

Near the entrance of the square, you will find a modern visitor center that provides essential context for your journey through the castle ruins. This facility offers maps, historical models, and digital displays that help…

The vast open space of Sannomaru Square itself is one of its most important features. Unlike the dense inner baileys, the square provides a sense of breath and openness within the city. …

Bordering the northern edge of Sannomaru Square is a section of the outer moat that has been preserved. This water feature once extended all the way around the castle, creating a formidable barrier against any approach from the…

In a prominent position within the square stands a large stone marker that commemorates the discovery of the Korokan ruins. This monument was erected to ensure that even those who do not enter the museum are aware of the immense…

As we conclude our time in Sannomaru Square, it is clear that this is more than just an entrance to a park. It is a site of profound historical confluence, where the ancient diplomatic legacy of the Korokan meets the military and…