Kitaoka Shizen Kouen, the burial site of the Hosogawa lords since it was founded by the first Hosokawa lord of Kumamoto, Tadatoshi, was bequeathed by the Hosokawa estate to the city in 1955. In addition to several tombs, it includes many architectural features unique to the early-Edo era, in particular, the karamon (唐門, a type of gate based on Chinese architecture, 唐 meaning “China”; the article notes that there are no records of the gate having toppled since its construction). Closed since the quakes, it reopened on 10/6, though some areas remain inaccessible. Complete restoration is expected to take three years.
The area is a gem, particularly in the fall. The hill is just before Hanaoka-yama, with best access from either the streetcar Gofukumachi or Gionbashi stops. Admission is free for the time being. The area is wonderful for photography and also for shinkansen-spotting. - William