Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's most famous historical sites, will reopen to visitors from this weekend, according to an announcement by the Kumamoto city government on Tuesday. The move comes two weeks after a magnitude 7.1 earthquake shook the southwestern region of Japan.
The earthquake, which occurred on August 8, caused significant damage across several parts of Kumamoto Prefecture, including cracks in the castle walls and some damage to adjacent structures. Initial assessments by authorities indicated that the damage was not severe enough to warrant a prolonged closure, but comprehensive safety inspections were carried out before allowing visitors to return.
The reopening of Kumamoto Castle is a positive sign for the local tourism industry, which had been heavily impacted by the seismic disaster. The city is making efforts to restore daily life and economic activities, including revitalizing key tourist attractions.
Kumamoto Castle, originally built in the 17th century, is one of Japan's three largest castles and a cultural symbol of the Kyushu region. The castle had been severely damaged in the 2016 earthquake and underwent years of restoration before fully reopening to the public.
Local authorities said they will continue to closely monitor aftershocks and ensure safe conditions for visitors to the castle in the coming period.
