Kumamoto Travel Guide

The Straw Hat Pirates stand proudly as a symbol of hope and recovery.

A shrine dedicated to Kato Kiyomasa, a Sengoku-era warlord; from the shrine grounds, you can look up at Kumamoto Castle’s main keep.

A dolphin-watching spot with a 90%+ encounter rate, where you can observe wild dolphins in the waters of Amakusa.

An exciting harmony of animals, plants, and amusement park fun.

A scenic tapestry of the seasons, where fresh spring greenery and brilliant autumn foliage color the surrounding gorges.

A soothing retreat where crystal-clear waters and pristine forests gently unwind the mind.

A heavenly torii gate standing at the summit of the highest peak in the Amakusa Islands.

A floating aquarium on the waters of Amakusa, where you can enjoy close encounters with dolphins and other marine creatures.

Step into the world of Japanese artisan folkcrafts with hands-on workshops.

Magical dolphin encounters in the Amakusa glittering seas.

A road through the sea lined with 24 utility poles - it appears when the tide goes out.

A roadside station to stop for local bites and the full scenic majesty of Aso.

A treasure trove of Kumamoto food! Enjoy authentic flavors at a long-running local cuisine restaurant.

Enjoy Kumamoto’s traditional flavors in a setting surrounded by beautiful nature.

Enjoy Kumamoto’s soul food, Taipien, at the restaurant where it originated.

The original restaurant to serve Aso’s local specialty, takana-meshi.

Enjoy local specialties at a cozy restaurant filled with hometown flavor and warmth.

Savor the rich umami of “akaushi” at a specialty restaurant.

At the original Kumamoto ramen shop, get hooked on a creamy, rich broth!

Try Kumamoto’s must-eat local dish, Taipien, at a long-established Chinese restaurant.

Enjoy their signature hot dogs made with house-made sausages while taking in the breathtaking views of the Aso landscape.

A dining spot where you can savor high-quality horse meat through a variety of dishes, including sashimi and creative cuisine.

Enjoy exquisite horse meat dishes in the heart of Kumamoto.

Their garlic rice topped with steak made from Aso's famous "Akaushi" beef is very popular.

Savor Kumamoto’s traditional flavors! Japanese sweets with a simple, comforting taste.

An ekinaka (station complex) facility full of gourmet food and souvenirs, showcasing the best of Kumamoto's attractions.

A large multi-complex facility with an integrated bus terminal, serving as a central hub for Kumamoto tourism.

Famous for its "Tanoshu," filled generously with rich, fresh custard cream.

A hotel designed for travelers seeking to explore Aso, offering a new style of travel.

A secluded hot spring inn nestled away in the woods, a distance from the main town of the hidden gem, Kurokawa Onsen.

A hot springs inn perfect for a relaxing day away surrounded by nature.

One of Kyushu’s leading summer festivals, woven together by light and dance.

A summer festival where Approx. 5,000 people dance through the main street of Kumamoto City.

One of only three national fireworks competitions in Japan-and the only one held in western Japan.