If you’ve been wanting to support Kumamoto Castle’s long-running earthquake recovery effort, the donation window is back open. The Fukko Joshu (復興城主 — Castle Recovery Lord) reception desk, located next to the Ninomaru Rest House inside the castle grounds, closed briefly after an earthquake struck on July 28 (Tuesday). Following a safety inspection of the building, the desk reopened on July 31 (Friday) and is now accepting donations again.
Unfortunately, the only options for donating to help reconstruct the castle are through cash donations at this donation window or at the Kumamoto Castle office, or via domestic bank transfer, so if you don’t live in Kumamoto or don’t have a bank account, there is no way easy way for you to donate. A more welcoming donation scheme is supposedly in the pipeline, and we’ll post info here if there are any new developments.
The Fukko Joshu program lets supporters — including foreign visitors and residents — make a monetary donation toward the castle’s restoration and receive recognition as an honorary “Castle Recovery Lord.” It’s one of the most meaningful ways to contribute directly to one of Japan’s most beloved historic landmarks, which has been undergoing painstaking repairs since the April 2016 earthquake. The program’s benefits were updated in April 2026, so it’s worth checking what donors receive before you visit.
One important caveat: while the donation desk is open, Kumamoto Castle itself remains temporarily closed to the public as safety inspections of the broader grounds are still ongoing following the July 28 quake. There is no confirmed reopening date at this time. The castle’s official website and social media channels will carry updates as soon as the all-clear is given, so check there before heading out.
If you’re planning to visit once the castle reopens, special guided tours of the restoration works were previously offered this summer — keep an eye out for similar opportunities in the coming months.
Source: Kumamoto City Tourism Guide
