Kumamoto Castle reopened to visitors on Wednesday, roughly two weeks after a magnitude-7.1 earthquake struck the region on July 28, with the city government deeming the site safe despite extensive damage to stonework and structures.
The quake toppled sections of the castle's iconic stone walls at roughly 40 locations and caused cracks in the main keep, while additional damage was found in 59 spots including dislodged window frames and chipped ornamental shachihoko roof ornaments. Kumamoto City confirmed safety across public areas and moved quickly to resume operations, allowing tourists to once again ascend the main keep.
The castle, which suffered severe destruction in the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes including the collapse of two nationally designated turrets, has been undergoing long-term restoration targeted for completion in fiscal 2052.