2025 Kumamoto Prefecture Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

I recently traveled to Kumamoto 🙋♀️ When it comes to Kumamoto, horse meat is a must-try, and this restaurant is so famous that you can't go wrong visiting it❣️ Even though it was a weekday, the restaurant was bustling with customers☺️ ▶︎ Sugano-ya Horse Grilled Course…6,500 yen ・Small dish (Horse marrow with ume and hijiki) ・Yukhoe salad ・Four types of local appetizers ・Four types of horse sashimi ・Simmered dish (Horse tendon stew) ・Fried dish (Almost all-meat cutlet) ・Four types of grilled horse meat ・Rice ・Soup ・Dessert Additional items for the course: ・Liver sashimi…950 yen ・Upgrade rice to lean meat sushi…800 yen A la carte additions: ・Salted tongue ・Premium short rib ・Fried offal The course is highly recommended as it allows you to try a variety of dishes in small portions. If you're unsure, go for the course and add any extra dishes that catch your eye. The appetizers included Kumamoto specialties like karashi renkon and hitomoji guruguru, which were delightful to sample in small portions. The four types of horse sashimi were: ・Marbled ・Lean meat ・Koune (horse mane fat) ・Futae (rare cut) It was a treat to enjoy rare cuts, but I personally loved the lean meat the most♪ The four types of grilled horse meat were: ・Harami (skirt steak) ・Karubi (short rib) ・Binta (cheek meat) ・Filet Each cut was incredibly tender and delicious♡ The liver sashimi can be ordered separately, but if you order the course, you can add it at a discounted price, which I highly recommend. Also, the fried offal we added as an a la carte item was absolutely delicious and paired perfectly with drinks. As expected of a famous restaurant, the service was excellent🥰 Sugano-ya Shinshigai Branch 📍 2-10 Shinshigai, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture 🈺 17:00–22:00

May is the best season to explore Kyushu, and we recommend a healing travel route filled with nature and culture! 🌿 Starting from Kumamoto, hop on the adorable "Kumamon Train" 🚋 and embark on a journey with the popular mascot Kumamon. Next, head to Aso Onsen Street to relax your body and mind in the hot springs♨️, followed by a visit to the majestic Takachiho Gorge, where the breathtaking valley scenery will leave you in awe 🌄. Don't miss the Kuju Dream Suspension Bridge, where you can challenge your courage on the high-altitude walkway while enjoying panoramic mountain views 🌉. Then, visit Yufuin, a favorite spot for art lovers, to explore unique shops and savor delicious desserts 🍰. Finally, make your way to Dazaifu Shrine to pray for good fortune ⛩️. The entire trip is leisurely paced, allowing you to fully experience the charm of Kyushu. 💕

#Kumamoto 🏯 Historical Highlights • Kumamoto Castle: One of Japan’s most impressive castles, originally constructed in the early 1600s by renowned samurai Katō Kiyomasa. Although damaged during the 2016 earthquakes, restoration efforts are ongoing, and parts of the castle are open to visitors.  • Suizenji Jojuen Garden: A beautifully landscaped Japanese garden that replicates the 53 post stations of the Tokaido, the road connecting Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo). • Reigandō Cave: The secluded cave where legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi spent his final years and wrote “The Book of Five Rings.”  ⸻ 🌿 Natural Attractions • Mount Aso: One of the world’s largest active volcanoes, featuring a vast caldera and picturesque landscapes. It’s a popular destination for hiking and enjoying panoramic views.  • Nabegataki Falls: A serene waterfall located in the nearby town of Oguni, offering visitors the unique experience of walking behind the cascading water.  ⸻ 🎭 Cultural Experiences • Kumamon: The city’s beloved bear mascot, Kumamon, is a cultural icon in Japan. You’ll find his image adorning various products and attractions throughout the city.  • Local Festivals: Kumamoto hosts several traditional festivals, including the Fujisaki Hachimangu Festival, featuring parades with elaborately decorated horses and participants in traditional attire.  ⸻ 🍜 Culinary Delights • Basashi: A local delicacy of thinly sliced raw horse meat, often served with soy sauce and garlic. • Kumamoto Ramen: Known for its rich, pork-based broth flavored with garlic, this ramen variant is a must-try for food enthusiasts. ⸻ 🚆 Accessibility Kumamoto is well-connected by the Kyushu Shinkansen, making it easily accessible from major cities like Fukuoka and Kagoshima. The city also serves as a convenient base for exploring other parts of Kyushu. Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -

#NewYearNewTrip How to take a bus to Takachiho Gorge from Kumamoto Station 1. Book a round-trip bus ticket, starting from Kumamoto Station to Takachiho Miyazaki 2. Get on the bus at Kumamoto Station terminal 7 3. Travel time is about 3 hours, stopping once to use the restroom near Aso 4. When you arrive at Takachiho Bus Terminal, take a taxi to Takachiho Gorge or walk 5. On the way back, get on the bus at the same place, Takachiho Bus Terminal, and get off at Kumamoto Station

This month, I flew to Kumamoto Prefecture from Haneda Airport on JAL. When I arrived at Aso Kumamoto Airport, I rented a car and drove around Aso and explored Kumamoto Castle. Kumamoto Castle was crowded with many foreign tourists. However, since it was still early September and the temperature was high, everyone seemed tired, so it was essential to stay hydrated. I had some delicious Kumamoto ramen around Kumamoto Station. And, as expected, there were a lot of Kumamons. On the packaging of sweets, on window panes, and on car license plates, it was a town full of Kumamons! Why not try Kumamoto Prefecture! #100TravelStyles #trip #KumamotoPrefecture #solotrip #airplanetrip2024 #kumamototrip #kumamotocastle

#Sakura2024 Kumamoto Prefectural Office A photo spot for Luffy from One Piece. The leaves are changing color beautifully. A new landmark. Let's take a photo with the statue of Monkey D. Luffy at Kumamoto Prefectural Office. This statue was built to honor Professor Oda, the author of One Piece. Because in the severe earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture in April 2016, many houses collapsed. Dozens of people died. Professor Oda donated money to help the people of Kumamoto, his hometown. The amount of 800 million yen, which will be divided into 2 parts: 500 million yen will be donated in the name of "Luffy" and the other 300 million yen will be donated in the name of Professor Oda himself. This caused the Governor of Kumamoto Prefecture to build a memorial statue of Luffy in Kumamoto to honor Professor Oda. The statue is placed in front of Kumamoto Prefectural Office. Anyone who is a One Piece fan must not miss this. Come take a picture and in this project, there are also statues of many One Piece characters, such as Sanji / Usopp / Chopper / Brook / Zoro / Franky / Robin / Nami / Jinbe 📌Kumamoto Prefectural Office ⏰Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day 🚈Transportation: Take the tram and get off at Shiritsu Taiikukan-mae Station and walk for about 10 minutes

#Japan must-visit photo spots 🍂🍂 Once you leave Hakata Station, about 40 minutes away -- you'll come to Kumamoto, which is full of autumn! 🍁 How to get there: From Hakata to Kumamoto, it’s about 40 minutes by Shinkansen. Moreover, you can ride this Shinkansen for free unlimited times within the specified period as long as you have a Kitakyushu JR pass. The Shinkansen is divided into reserved and unreserved seats. Riding in reserved seats must be reserved with a JR pass. Or you can directly board the bus with JR pass to sit in free seats ✨️ (peak season time: it is recommended to reserve reserved seats in advance 🤣🤣). 💰If you buy a one-time ticket instantly: JPY4700 (As at 202311) #OverseasTravel #AutumnRecommendation #JapanTravel #FukuokaTravel #Fukuoka #Kumamoto #Autumn

Kusasenri Plains is perfectly located to see the Aso mountain range's Nakadake volcano spewing smoke. In the center of this vast plain, which is 1km in diameter, is a small rainwater pond where cows and horses often gather. The changing scenery from season to season is another attraction here.

Takachiho Gorge was originally a lava flow that erupted from Mount Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture, flowing along the Gokasegawa River and was suddenly cooled. In 1934, this place was designated as a national scenic spot, a national natural monument, attracting a large number of visitors. In the gorge, there is "Manai Falls" which was selected as one of the 100 representative waterfalls of Japan, the waterfall flows down from a height of about 17m, which is really attractive! You can rent a boat to experience the vibrant nature in the gorge, typically this "Manai Falls". You can look up at the waterfall from such a close distance that the water spray seems to cover you, it is an experience that cannot be found anywhere else.

#Overseas Travel #Japan Travel #Kumamoto Prefecture #Japan The great thing about Kikuchi Valley is that it has been selected as one of the top 100 scenic spots. -Japan's Top 100 Forests for Forest Bathing - Kumamoto Green 100 Views -Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls There are hiking trails along the stream, which can especially feel the coolness in the hot summer.. It is recommended for summer vacation😎😎 The Kikuchi Gorge is about 4 kilometers long. The source is the undercurrent that gushes out of the Aso outer rim mountain, so it is also called the Kikuchi water source. Address: 5026 Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture transportation: Take the Kumamoto Electric Railway bus bound for Kikuchi from JR Kumamoto Station, get off at Kikuchi Square after 1 hour and 10 minutes, and take a taxi for 30 minutes

It is a famous natural hot spring resort in Kumamoto Prefecture, surrounded by beautiful nature and an atmosphere of an old Japanese village. There are hotels and ryokans that warmly welcome tourists. This hot spring town was awarded 2 stars by the Michelin Green Guide for Japan in 2009. 💧 Another unique feature of Kurokawa Onsen is the all-you-can-use hot spring pass called “Nyuto Tegata”. It is a ticket made of wooden boards with cute designs that you can keep as a souvenir. With this pass, you can choose to use 3 hot springs out of 24 hot spring hotels in Kurokawa Onsen, each with its own unique hot spring baths. Most have both indoor and outdoor hot springs to choose from, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery around you while soaking in the hot springs. 🌟 In winter, around Every year from January to March, Kurokawa Onsen holds the Kurokawa Onsen Bamboo Lantern Illumination or “Yuakari”, where the entire town is decorated with bamboo lanterns, creating a dreamy atmosphere with glowing lights. It is a beautiful sight and leaves a lasting impression on visitors. This is another highlight that should not be missed.

"Aoi Aso Shrine" Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture Day 5 of the Kyushu Trip Boasting a history of over 1200 years, it was the first shrine in Kumamoto Prefecture to be designated as a national treasure.  The thatched roof of the main hall is very tasteful, and the shrine has a calm atmosphere that evokes nostalgia. ⛩ However, the Kuma River flooded due to the heavy rains in Kumamoto in 2020, and Aoi Aso Shrine was also flooded.  The scars of the damage are still fresh in the surrounding area.  (See second photo) When I actually visited, there were people working towards reconstruction.  #shrine #freespot I hope for a speedy recovery. 

A hot spring area located very close to Aso ♨️  The atmosphere is amazing with many hot spring inns lined up!!  When you buy a hot spring tour pass, you can choose 3 day-trip hot springs at your favorite inns!  The color of the water and the scenery are all different depending on the hot spring, so you can enjoy your hot spring tour!!  Why not try to conquer all the baths😊 #KurokawaOnsen #HotSprings#CoupleTrip #KumamotoPrefecture #SupportTourism #HotSpringTrip

Located very close to Kurokawa Onsen in Kumamoto Prefecture♨️ Yamatake is a restaurant that has been remodeled from an old house First of all, it has an irori hearth and is a hot spot with a great atmosphere🍵 The standard menu is cute pickles and local cuisine made with wild yam! #Kumamoto #KumamotoPrefecture #HotSpringTrip #HotSpring #LocalCuisine #TourismSupport #GourmetTrip

#hotelcation Hotel Nikko Kumamoto is located in the city center with very convenient transportation. It is close to shopping and dining. It is close to the famous attractions Kumamoto Castle and Minister Kumamon's Office. The room is large, neatly organized and the mattress is comfortable. The breakfast is very rich, must try 👍👍 #hotelcation

#sakura-no-Baba Johsaien is located in Sakuranobaba, at the foot of Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s three major castles. It is a popular tourist attraction designed to enhance the appeal of the old castle town and convey to visitors the food, history and cultural traditions of #kumamoto #japan #travelinspiration #happynewyear

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip Tsujunkyo Bridge, located in Yamato Town, Kumamoto Prefecture, is a stone aqueduct bridge built in the Edo period. The famous scene of water gushing out from the bridge is sure to surprise you when you see it for the first time, saying, "What? Water coming from a bridge!?" This bridge was built to send agricultural water to the other side of the mountain, and you will be impressed by the high level of civil engineering technology at the time. The water is released during events, and the powerful spray of water against the blue sky is very beautiful✨ When I actually visited, I was soothed by the beauty of the arch of the bridge and the tranquility of the surrounding nature. The scenery, where history and nature are in harmony, is also perfect for photos📸 It's perfect for a leisurely stroll with your partner, or a trip to experience history on your own. [Access] About 1 hour 40 minutes by car from JR Kumamoto Station Take the express bus from Kumamoto city and get off at "Tsujunbashi-mae" and walk for a short distance Tsujunbashi #stone arch bridge #water discharge event #domestic travel #couple travel #solo travel #Kumamoto history #great view spot

Located in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture, "Manda Pit" is part of the Miike Coal Mine, which thrived from the Meiji to Showa eras and is now registered as a World Cultural Heritage site. The brick buildings and massive winding machines allow visitors to feel the pulse of the industrial era. When you visit, you’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere that conveys the passion and effort of the people who worked in the mines. The guided tours provide detailed insights into the workings and history of the coal mine, satisfying your intellectual curiosity📚✨. With many retro buildings perfect for photography, this spot is a must-visit for history enthusiasts! Whether you’re strolling leisurely as a couple or immersing yourself in history on a solo trip, Manda Pit is highly recommended. Embark on a journey to connect with Kumamoto’s "industrial heritage"—an experience not to be missed. 【Access】 Approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Arao Station About 1.5 hours by car from Kumamoto City

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip The Kuma River, which flows through the southern part of Kumamoto Prefecture, is known as one of the three major rapids in Japan, and is an outdoor spot where you can enjoy rafting and river rafting. The experience of cutting through the wind in a clear stream surrounded by nature is truly an extraordinary adventure! When I actually tried rafting, I was excited to the max with the thrill of the rapids and the exhilaration of the splashes! However, in places where the flow was calm, there were moments when I was soothed by the tranquility and beauty of the river, and I was able to refresh my mind and body✨ There are also hot springs scattered around the area, so it's great to take a relaxing soak after an activity♨️ Perfect for an active date with your partner or a challenge on a solo trip. If you want to "experience" the nature of Kumamoto, you can't miss the Kuma River! [Access] Within walking distance from JR Hitoyoshi Station (depending on the rafting reception location) About 2 hours by car from Kumamoto city Kuma River #Rafting experience #Clear stream adventure #Domestic travel #Couple trip #Solo trip #Kumamoto outdoor #River rafting trip

Amakusa Gokyo, a series of five bridges connecting the Uto Peninsula to the Amakusa Islands in Kumamoto Prefecture, is renowned as one of Kyushu's most scenic driving routes✨. This route runs between the blue sea and sky, offering unique designs and views for each bridge. The scenery from the car window feels like a scene straight out of a movie. Especially at sunset, the silhouette of the bridges against the setting sun creates a romantic atmosphere🌅. Driving along this route, you can enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, and stopping at roadside stations or observation decks along the way adds to the fun. It's perfect for a couple's drive date or a solo trip to explore stunning views! Begin your Amakusa journey with these five bridges. Experience the awe-inspiring route surrounded by the sea and sky. 【Access】 Approximately 2 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station Take National Routes 57 and 324 from Uto City towards Amakusa Amakusa Gokyo

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip Sakitsu Church in Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture is a Roman Catholic church quietly standing in a fishing village. Its beautiful Gothic-style building and quiet appearance with the sea as a backdrop are like a painting✨ In 2018, it was registered as a World Heritage Site as "Hidden Christian Heritage Sites in the Nagasaki and Amakusa Regions". When you actually visit, you will be deeply moved by the unusual design of the inside of the church, which is covered with tatami mats, and the unique atmosphere that blends Japanese and Western styles. The sight of people quietly praying and the scenery of the church coexisting with the daily life of the fishing village🙏 Perfect for a quiet time with your partner or to reset your mind on a solo trip. Please experience a trip that touches on the history and faith of Amakusa. [Access] About 3 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station About 40 minutes by car from Amakusa City Sakitsu Church #WorldHeritage #PrayerSpace #DomesticTrip #CoupleTrip #SoloTrip #AmakusaTourism #SilentBeauty

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip The Amakusa Shiro Museum in Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is a facility where you can learn about the life of Amakusa Shiro, a central figure in the Shimabara-Amakusa Rebellion that took place during the Edo period, and Christian culture. It stands on a hill overlooking the beautiful sea, and you can experience history and faith in a quiet atmosphere. Inside the museum, videos and exhibits are used to clearly introduce the life of the time, the history of persecution, and Shiro's charisma, so even if you're not familiar with history, you can enjoy the content. ✨ When I actually visited, I was moved by his way of life and the deep faith of the people of Amakusa. The time I spent quietly reflecting while looking out at the sea was a special moment on my trip. 🌊 It's recommended for historical exploration as a couple, or as a way to reset your mind on a solo trip. Please experience a trip to experience the "island of prayer" of Amakusa. [Access] About 2.5 hours by car from JR Kumamoto Station About 20 minutes by car from Amakusa city Amakusa Shiro Museum #Christian culture #History exploration #Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Prayer in Kumamoto #Amakusa sightseeing

【Laputa Road & Milk Road】A magical road above the clouds🚗☁️ Known as one of the most scenic driving routes in Aso, "Milk Road" is a must-visit. Among its highlights is the spot famously called "Laputa Road." In the early morning, when a sea of clouds spreads out, the road appears as if it’s floating in the sky, creating a truly enchanting view✨. The name comes from the world depicted in the Studio Ghibli film "Castle in the Sky." When you visit, you’ll be moved by the stunning contrast of clouds and mountains stretching before your eyes. The tranquility and crisp air of the early morning feel like they cleanse your soul🌄. This route is irresistible for driving enthusiasts, perfect for a romantic outing as a couple or a reflective solo journey. Experience the "miraculous scenery" woven by Aso’s natural beauty for yourself. 【Access】 About 30 minutes by car from JR Aso Station About 1.5 hours by car from Kumamoto City *Please note that access to Laputa Road may be restricted at times, so it’s recommended to check in advance.

Kurokawa Onsen, located in Minamioguni Town, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, is one of Japan's most popular hot spring destinations. Nestled quietly in the mountains, this charming hot spring town is lined with traditional inns, exuding a nostalgic atmosphere. The highlight here is the "Nyuto Tegata" (hot spring pass) for a unique hot spring hopping experience♨️. I personally visited three different hot springs, each offering distinct water qualities and ambiance, making it feel like a luxurious journey through various hot springs✨. The view of nature from the open-air baths was pure bliss. At night, the town is gently illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for strolling in a yukata. Whether you’re spending a relaxing time as a couple or seeking quiet solitude, Kurokawa Onsen is the ideal place to rejuvenate both your mind and body. 【Access】 About 50 minutes by car from JR Aso Station About 2 hours by car from Kumamoto City

Located in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Kikuchi Gorge is a nature-rich valley situated on the northern side of the Aso Outer Rim Mountains. The scenery, featuring crystal-clear streams, moss-covered rocks, and deep green foliage, feels like stepping into a storybook world ✨. In summer, it becomes a popular spot for those seeking cool relief, while in autumn, the gorge is vividly painted with colorful leaves 🍁. When I visited, the serene space, filled only with the sounds of flowing water and birdsong, brought an immediate sense of calm. The well-maintained walking trails make it easy for beginners to explore safely. Surrounded by air rich in negative ions, just taking a deep breath here is enough to feel refreshed 🌿. Whether you're a couple looking to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace or someone seeking quiet solitude, Kikuchi Gorge is the perfect destination. If you want to experience the natural beauty of Kumamoto, this spot is a must-see! [Access] Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Kumamoto Station About 30 minutes by car from Kikuchi City center

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip [Greenland] A day full of smiles at one of Kyushu's largest amusement parks 🎢🎡 "Greenland" in Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture is a comprehensive leisure facility that boasts the largest scale in Kyushu! From thrilling rides to family rides, there are over 80 types of attractions, so you'll never get bored no matter how many times you come ✨ Particularly popular are the thrilling roller coasters and the Ferris wheel with a beautiful night view 🎠 The park is spacious, and you can enjoy seasonal events and illuminations. When I actually visited, I was able to return to my childhood and laugh, scream, and spend the best day relaxing 😊 Perfect for a date with your partner or a change of pace on a solo trip. If you're going to "have fun to your heart's content" in Kumamoto, Greenland is a must-see! [Access] About 10 minutes by bus from JR Arao Station About 1.5 hours by car from Kumamoto city Greenland #Kyushu amusement park #thrilling attractions #domestic travel #couples travel #solo travel #Kumamoto leisure #smiley holiday

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip Yamaga Onsen, located in the northern part of Kumamoto Prefecture, is a historic hot spring resort that has been loved as a hot spring resort since ancient times. The soft spring water is also known as a "beautiful skin bath," and your skin will be smooth after a bath✨ In the center of the town is the Yachiyoza Theater, a nationally designated important cultural property, which still conveys the atmosphere of a Meiji era playhouse. In addition, at the Yamaga Lantern Festival held in the summer, you can see the fantastic sight of women dancing with gold lanterns on their heads, and time passes as if you are in a dream🎐 When I actually visited, I was soothed by the tranquility of the hot spring town and the depth of history. We recommend strolling around in a yukata and enjoying local Japanese sweets and souvenirs! You can spend a relaxing time with your partner or immerse yourself in history alone. If you want to feel the "Japanese atmosphere" of Kumamoto, Yamaga Onsen is a must-see. [Access] About 1 hour and 10 minutes by car from JR Kumamoto Station About 1 hour by express bus from Kumamoto city Yamaga Onsen #beautiful skin bath #Yachiyoza #domestic travel #couple travel #solo travel #Kumamoto Onsen Town #lantern festival

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip "Shichijo Melon Dome" in Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture is a popular roadside station where delicious things from Kumamoto are gathered, mainly Shichijo melons, a local specialty. The dome-shaped building is the landmark, and when you enter, the sweet aroma of melon spreads out 🍈✨ When you actually visit, you will find a wide variety of sweets and juices made with melon, all of which are exquisite! The melon soft cream in particular is rich yet refreshing, perfect for the hot season 🍦 It also has a wide selection of local vegetables and souvenirs, making it the perfect place to stop by during your trip. Recommended for couples on a road trip, or for solo travelers exploring the food. If you want to taste the "sweet happiness" of Kumamoto, you can't miss Shichijo Melon Dome! [Access] About 1 hour and 10 minutes by car from JR Kumamoto Station About 15 minutes by car from Kikuchi city Shichijo Melon Dome #MelonHeaven #RoadsideStationGourmet #DomesticTrip #CoupleTrip #SoloTrip #KumamotoSweets #DriveTrip