Saga: Cosplayers of Popular Manga ‘Kingdom’ Hold Event in Creator’s Hometown

The Yomiuri Shimbun

15:21 JST, April 4, 2026

KIYAMA, Saga — The 404-meter-high Mt. Kizan is steeped in history. Located in Kiyama, Saga Prefecture, the mountain is even attracting cosplayers thanks to the popular manga “Kingdom.”

Kii Castle, a mountain fortress that is now in ruins, is believed to have been built in 665 by order of Emperor Tenji. It was shortly after Japan — then known as Wa —launched an expedition into the Korean Peninsula and was defeated by joint Chinese-Korean forces.

The castle was built to protect Dazaifu, the former administrative center of Kyushu, from attacks by China and Korea. The area was also a key transportation hub. Around the 16th century, powerful warlords from Kyushu and Yamaguchi, such as the Otomo and Ouchi clans, waged fierce power struggles in northern Kyushu.

“Kingdom” is a historical manga set in a turbulent time in China during the B.C. years, long before the reign of Emperor Tenji. However, the author, Yasuhisa Hara, is a native of Kiyama Town and it is said that his experiences growing up surrounded by the nature and history of his hometown inspired him to create the story set in ancient China.

In early November, an event took place at the Kii Castle ruins to enjoy the atmosphere of ancient times. Cosplayers who love “Kingdom” reached out to the town and asked if they could hold cosplay photo events at the ruins. The town believes such events will be helpful.

At the event, cosplayers dressed as characters from “Kingdom” posed for photos with families.