Musashizuka Park is located in Kumamoto City. It's the grave site of the famous swordsman, Miyamoto Musashi. Musashi's life has been portrayed in countless films as well as literature. But it’s Musashi's own treatise on strategy, The Book of Five Rings, which he allegedly conceived and wrote at the nearby cave of Reigandō, that he’s perhaps most renowned for. The book is not only studied by martial artists, but also business managers and students of philosophy. If you're interested in the life of Miyamoto Musashi or samurai history in general, a trip to Musashizuka Park is highly recommended while in Kumamoto.
- 1 min read
The Grave of Miyamoto Musashi
Musashizuka Park in Kumamoto

Community writer

Statue of Miyamoto Musashi demonstrating his two-sword style of swordsmanship.

The grave of Miyamoto Musashi surrounded by his retainers.

Statues of komainu, or lion-dogs, stand guard at many shrines throughout Japan.

The weathered statues enhance the historical ambience of the environment.

The kanji characters read the name, Musashi.

This large stone marker reads Musashizuka Park.

The grave of the swordsman, Shinmen Munisai, who also happens to be Musashi’s father.

A plaque illustrating some of Musashi's sword techniques.

The park also contains a beautiful Japanese garden.

Cross this bridge to get to Musashi's grave.

While visiting, take your time to relax or go for a stroll. There is an excellent souvenir shop next to the park filled with various Musashi-themed items.

Gnarled rocks adorn the landscape.

Entranceway to the park.
Explore nearby
Join the discussion
Tristan Scholze
10 years ago
I used to live near there and drive by this area regularly when I first came to Japan, but I had no idea something of this magnitude was there! Treasures are hidden all over Japan, but this is special--even if you're not really into samurai and swordsmanship.
Yui Yamaguchi
10 years ago
Back in 80's, Miyamoto Musashi was very popular because of NHK TV drama and my teacher at school often talked about him at class room. I didn't know this park was named after him!
I agree and will fix that! By the way, I love your Japan in Pictures FB page. Very happy to see your images within my news feed.
Cathy Cawood
10 years ago
Interesting article, Bradford. Many people are interested in Musashi! But I think slide 2 would make a more striking first picture!
4 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Kurume’s Shrines By the River
Fukuoka -
2
FamilyMart's Choc Mint Fair is Back for 2025
Food -
3
The History of Japan: Era by Era
Culture -
4
Kyushu Craftsmanship and Traditions Heritage Tour
Article -
5
Hokkaido Full Immersion Tour
Hokkaido -
6
Luxury Glamping at Bettei Shiki
Tochigi -
7
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
8
Mt. Fuji Hike 2025: New Safety Rules & Registration Guide
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
9
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
10
An Enriching Getaway in Ome City
Tokyo - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
4
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
5
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
6
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
7
Adachi Fireworks
Tokyo -
8
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
9
Tokyo Pride
Tokyo -
10
Black Eggs of Owakudani, Hakone
Kanagawa