kumamoto day trip

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Kumamoto Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Kumamoto in One Day

Kumamoto is the capital city of Kumamoto Prefecture and is located on the west coast of Kyushu Island . While many travellers may not know much about Kumamoto, the city has many historical temples and shrines , including one of the top three premier castles in Japan. Moreover, you can see all the best attractions in Kumamoto in one day!

Besides all the tourist attractions in the city, there are many things to see beyond Kumamoto City. One of the top things to do in Kumamoto is visiting Mount Aso as a day trip . And it is not complicated at all to visit the active volcano, you can even visit the volcano without a car.

So if you want to visit a castle, temples, museums, Japanese gardens and sample some of the best cuisines in Kyushu, then follow my 1-day Kumamoto itinerary!

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Table of Contents

Kumamoto Day Trip: What you need to know

Before starting your Kumamoto itinerary, take a look at my post on everything you need to know before going to Japan . I included a lot of information including how to get around Japan and other travel tips.

Here are a few additional travel tips that you may find useful for spending a day in Kumamoto City:

• SUGOCA is the prepaid IC card for Kyushu. It is a rechargeable smartcard where you can take public transportation including bus, train and etc.
• You can see all the attractions in Kumamoto in 1 day
• Walking is the best way to see most attractions in Kumamoto
• Kumamoto City Tram can take you to major attractions like Kumamoto Castle , Suizen-ji Jojien Garden and many more places. Each ride costs ¥170 or buy the one day pass for ¥500 or use SUGOCA.

How to get to Kumamoto Japan

Aso Kumamoto Airport is 17km from Kumamoto City. However, only domestic flights fly into the small airport. If you are flying internationally, you may have to fly into Fukuoka Airport , Kagoshima Airport or other major airports in Japan.

But if you are flying into Aso Kumamoto Airport, you can take an airport limousine bus directly into the city.

• Airport limousine bus : from Aso Kumamoto Airport to Kumamoto Station (45 minutes; ¥800). Check Kyushu Bus website for timetable and fares

If you are coming from Fukuoka or Kagoshima , taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) is the fastest way to get to Kumamoto. Check Hyperdia for schedules and fares . Here are a few sample routes below.

Fukuoka to Kumamoto

• Kyushu Shinkansen : from JR Hakata Station to Kumamoto Station (40 minutes; ¥5,030 (covered by JR Pass except for Nozomi and Mizuho trains)

Kagoshima to Kumamoto

• Kyushu Shinkansen : from Kagoshima-chuo Station to Kumamoto Station (56 minutes; ¥6,870 (covered by JR Pass except for Nozomi and Mizuho trains)

Map: Best Things to Do in Kumamoto Japan

Most Kumamoto attractions are within the city centre so it is possible to see Kumamoto in one day. Especially when most attractions are in walkable distance or you can take the efficient city tram.

I pinned all the top things to do in Kumamoto on the interactive map below.  Red pins are all the must-see attractions   on the Kumamoto day trip ,  green pins are other things to see outside Kumamoto City , and  yellow pins are Kumamoto accommodations .

Kumamoto 1-Day Itinerary: What to See in One Day

1, 2, 3, & 4. kumamoto castle.

Built in the early 1600s, Kumamoto Castle is one of the best castles in Japan, along with Himeji Castle in Himeji , and Matsumoto Castle in Nagano. The main palace is six stories high while the smaller tower is four stories high . And 13 different structures on the premise are designated as important cultural properties.

Along with the main castle, also look for  Kato Shrine , Kumamato-jo Inari Shrine , and the impressive Honmaru Goten Palace .

However, Kumamoto Castle suffered a lot of damages from the earthquake in 2016 . The main towers and other buildings in the castle complex suffered severe damages; many walls crumbled and roofs collapsed.

Kumamoto Castle requires extensive repair and is closed to the public at the moment. During your visit, you may only see a small part of the damaged castle which be seen from the perimeter of the castle ground.

As of June 1, 2020, construction continues but there is an elevated walkway (¥500 to enter) where you can see parts of the inner castle ground. But all the buildings remain closed.

5. Honmyo-ji Temple

Located on a hillside, Honmyo-ji Temple is one of the best temples in Kumamoto where you can see a great view of the city.

Take the tram to Honmyo-ji Temple and walk up a flight of stairs until you reach the Niomon Gate , a giant guardian gate made with concrete. The function of the large gate is similar to Nio statues , guardian statues protecting the temple from evil spirits and demons.

Also look for the Chuomon Gate (middle gate), the main temple, and walk all the way to the top to Honmyoji Park and see a gorgeous view of the city. At the top of the hill is Kato Kiyomasa ‘s grave. He was a fierce warrior and was responsible for the rebuild of both Kumamoto Castle and Nagoya Castle.

6. Sakuranobaba Johsaien Castle Town

At the base of Kumamoto Castle is a popular tourist attraction called Sakuranobaba Johsaien Castle Town .

Newly opened in 2011, there is a shopping arcade with 23 shops selling souvenirs uniquely to Kumamoto, a tourist information centre, and an interactive historical display where you can learn about Kumamoto’s history. And if you are hungry, sample a few snacks where you can only find in Kumamoto.

7. Eat Kumamoto Ramen at Kokutei

Kumamoto ramen uses thicker noodles, unlike Hakata ramen in Fukuoka . The broth is made with tonkotsu pork, similar to Hakata ramen but has hints of chicken broth in it as well.

What differentiates Kumamoto ramen from other types of ramen is the addition of kogashi garlic . The aromatic garlic flavour is injected into the broth as it is sprinkled on top of the ramen.

Try a bowl of Tamago-iri ramen ¥900 at  Kokutei . The restaurant specializes in Kumamoto ramen since 1957. A bowl of Tamago-iri ramen includes two eggs, chashu (roast pork), black Chinese mushrooms, seaweed, kogashi garlic, green onions and of course, thick ramen noodles in tonkotsu broth.

Make sure you slurp the noodles as loud as you can. It is considered to be polite to slurp! It means the noodle is delicious!

8. Suizen-ji Jojuen Garden

One of the main highlights of Kumamoto is the Suizen-ji Jojuen Garden .

The big Japanese garden with a beautiful lake was built in the 17th-century. Each tree, pond, and every other detail was carefully designed. The garden represents parts of the 53 stations of the Tokaido , a vital road from Edo to Kyoto . Part of the garden includes a miniature landscape of Mt. Fuji.

While you are there, enjoy Japanese tea at the teahouse.

Admission for the garden is ¥400.

9. Contemporary Art Museum, Kumamoto (CAMK)

Since opening in 2002, the Contemporary Art Museum, Kumamoto (CAMK) displays modern contemporary Japanese artwork and features artists from Kumamoto and Kyushu Island .

While the museum changes the exhibitions from time to time, there are permanent displays including the ceiling lighting artwork by James Turrell and glass installation artwork under the staircase by Yayoi Kusama .

Check the CAMK website for information about the latest exhibition.

Admission is ¥1,000.

10. Try other Kumamoto food

Just because you are travelling on your own, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try the local specialties. Eating solo is very common in Japan!

For dinner, try some of the local Kumamoto food, including:

• Taipinyen – a large bowl of vermicelli in soup with lots of vegetables, with either pork or chicken broth, various toppings like crab meat, pork, mushrooms, egg, corn, etc. Taipinyen can only be found in Kumamoto.  Kourantei Shimotori makes a delicious bowl of Taipinyen . 
• Dagojiru – flat dumplings in a broth made of soy sauce and miso, served with daikon, carrots and vegetables.
• Red Wagyu Donburi – a rice bowl topped with red wagyu beef raised in Aso, Kumamoto.
• Basashi – tender pieces of raw horse meat sashimi, a popular Kumamoto regional dish.
• Ikinari Dango – sweet dumplings with yams, red beans, and wrapped in thin dough made with wheat flour. They can be made on the spot and its a Kumamoto favourite!
• Homare no Jindaiko – a gelatin snack with red bean paste from Hokkaido. The dessert treat is packaged in a tin container and is great as a souvenir.

11. Shimotori Shopping Arcade

Your friends and family must be so jealous of your trip to Japan. So why not bring back a few souvenirs for them?

A great place to shop is the Shimotori Shopping Arcade , where you will find over 511 meters of the covered shopping street. It is the largest shopping arcade in Kumamoto Prefecture .

Many major Japanese cities have an old-style covered shopping street called shotengai . And in Kumamoto, you will find everything you want in these shopping arcades. Many Kumamoto souvenirs have the Kumamon , the mascot of Kumamoto Prefecture, on the packaging. You will see Kumamon almost everywhere in Kumamoto!

There are also restaurants and bars in the shopping arcade. It is a great place to end your day in Kumamoto.

Kumamoto: Things to Do outside of the city

Mount Aso is an active volcano in Kumamoto Prefecture. At the highest peak, Mount Nakadake , it has one of the world’s largest caldera, a volcanic crater. The crater measures 25 kilometres and has a circumference of over 100 kilometres. Within the crater, it has emerald green hot water.

However, due to continuous volcanic activity, it may or may not be possible to see the crater up-close. Check the latest condition and see if it is possible to see the crater.

But even if you can’t see the crater, there are many hiking trails on the mountain. Plus you can ride horses during the warmer months at Kusasenro-ga-hama , which is just next to the Aso Volcano Museum .

All of these activities make the perfect Kumamoto day trip. And you can visit Mount Aso without a car !

Where to Stay in Kumamoto as a solo traveller

There are excellent accommodations near Kumamoto Station and in the centre of the city , which may be more convenient.

However, budget accommodation isn’t very cheap in Kumamoto. Expect to pay at least ¥2,700 per night for a bunk bed. But the bunk bed is very comfortable and clean.

• Check prices & reviews: Agoda

Are you going to follow my Kumamoto one day itinerary?

And there you have it – all the best things to do in Kumamoto City! And best of all, you can see all the attractions in one day by following my efficient Kumamoto 1-day itinerary.

And while you are travelling in Kyushu Island , make sure to get off the beaten track and visit other cities and take day trips from Kumamoto, like visiting Mount Aso .

Let me know what you think of this one day itinerary or if you have any suggestions to make it better.

Thank you for reading my Kumamoto itinerary post

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Solo Travel to Japan: 17 best cities for solo travellers
• Things I wish I knew before going to Japan
• 11 Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• Japanese Food Culture: 11 must-try food
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Kyushu region

• 10-day Kyushu Island itinerary
• 25 Best things to do in Fukuoka Japan
• Day trip to Dazaifu from Fukuoka
• Day trip to Mount Aso from Kumamoto
• 11 Top things to do in Kagoshima Japan
• 1-5 day Okinawa itinerary without a car
• Where to stay in Naha Okinawa: 6 boutique hotels
• Okinawa food guide: 26 best food

Like this blog post? Pin it on your Pinterest board!

queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Where to stay in Tokyo for first time traveller: 6 Tokyo Accommodations (with honest reviews)

Where to Stay in Kyoto for First Time Traveller: Best Areas and Hotel Reviews

Teshima Island: How to Get to Teshima & Things to Do on the Art Island in Japan

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Kumamoto to Mount Aso: How to Get There & What to Do

Kagoshima travel guide: 12 top things to do in kagoshima japan, ms travel solo.

• Downtown Kumamoto City
• Sightseeing

Where to Buy Limited One Piece Statue Figures in Kumamoto

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Kumamoto is a city with a rich history and unique culture, famed for both the enormous Kumamoto Castle and its delicious cuisine. Downtown, you’ll find fantastic food at reasonable prices, great shopping spots, plenty of hole-in-the-wall bars and ramen shops, and impressive cultural attractions like the aforementioned castle. This guide will tell you all you need to know to make your visit to Kumamoto City a great one.

The city of Kumamoto lies smack-dab in the middle of the island of Kyushu. Its central location and good access to transportation makes it a great launchpad for travel around Kyushu. The city itself lacks the urban sprawl you see in bigger cities like Tokyo and Fukuoka, so you can hop on a train and be out in the countryside in minutes.

But while you’re in the city, there’s plenty to see, do, and eat, so this guide is here to offer you recommendations on the top things to do if you’ve got a day to spend in Kumamoto. I’ll also list some extra activities futher afield if you’ve got a day or two extra and are looking to explore the natural side of Kumamoto Prefecture.

Table of Contents

About Kumamoto City

First up, a quick explanation about Kumamoto. Kumamoto City is centered around Kumamoto Castle, both geographically and culturally. The castle was built by Lord Kato Kiyomasa in the early 1600s. In contrast to castles built by rulers to show off their wealth, Kumamoto Castle was built to be an impenetrable fortress, with huge stone walls and winding, maze-like passageways.

Directly to the east of the castle, you’ll find the main downtown shopping and eating areas of Kumamoto, centered around the Kamitori and Shimotori covered arcades. South of the castle are the historic neighborhoods of Shinmachi and Kyomachi where you’ll find old shops and hidden shrines.

Kumamoto is unique among Japanese cities in that the station and the downtown area are separate. You’ll need to take a tram, bus, or taxi to get downtown from the station, either of which takes about 10 minutes. The tram is the easiest way to get around the city, and services the station, the area around the castle, Suizenji Garden, and more.

How much time can you spend in Kumamoto?

If you lack a car and only want to stay in the city, the main sights of Kumamoto can be covered in a day. If you have a car or want to explore the seaside Amakusa region or volcanic Aso region by train, you could easily spend a three or four days and still have plenty left to see.

Personally, I’d recommend a day seeing the sights in the city, then a day exploring the outdoors and relaxing in an onsen in Aso.

When should you visit Kumamoto?

Kumamoto, like Kyoto, is situated in a big valley that gets pretty hot in the summer. It is also located just south enough that it has a robust rainy season that runs from early June to mid-July. So if you have the ability to avoid a certain time of year, you’ll want to visit any time other than the mid-summer months.

The sakura (cherry blossoms) bloom earlier in Kumamoto than places up north, usually arriving late March/early April. The castle is surrounded in cherry blossom trees and looks especially nice in and around this season.

The weather in Kumamoto settles down a bit in the fall, which is when you’ll also find a number of festivals scheduled, including the The Great Festival of Fujisaki Hachimangu Shrine and the Hinokuni Festival.

Kumamoto is also famous for having one of the largest swings between high temperatures in the summer and cold temperatures in the winter. While it only snows rarely in Kumamoto, it can get pretty chilly, so warm attire is advised during the winter months.

How to get to Kumamoto

Most foreign visitors come to Kumamoto by train or plane. Kumamoto Airport does have direct international flights, but most visitors come via layover in one of Japan’s bigger airports. Fukuoka is the most common entry point for visitors from other Asian countries, from which Kumamoto is only an hour away by shinkansen.

Kumamoto Airport has direct flights to Seoul Incheon (Korea), Busan (Korea), Kaohsiung (Taiwan), and Hong Kong. It also has domestic flights to major connecting airports like Narita, Haneda, and Kansai International (as of 8/2022)

Because Kumamoto Airport is located about an hour outside of downtown Kumamoto, it actually only takes a little longer to fly into Fukuoka and hop on a shinkansen than to fly into Kumamoto and take a bus downtown.

Taking the shinkansen to Kumamoto is one of the most convenient ways to get here. The station was also rebuilt in 2020 and is a great improvement over the previous station. Keep in mind that the station area and the downtown are separate, and remember to factor that in when scheduling train reservations.

As with anywhere else in Japan, Japan Rail Passes are a great way to get around and offer significant discounts than if tickets are purchased separately. JR Passes must be purchased prior to coming to Japan and need to be picked up at special ticket offices located at most major JR stations and airports.

• National Rail Pass
• All Kyushu Pass
• Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Pass
• Northern Kyushu Pass
• Southern Kyushu Pass

Yep, you read that right, Kumamoto falls under both Northern and Southern Kyushu rail passes. Basing yourself out of Kumamoto while exploring Kyushu can save you some $$$ (or €€€ or what have you).

The Kyushu Expressway runs through the eastern part of Kumamoto City. Both the Kumamoto and Mashiki-Kumamotokuko exits are viable options to get downtown, but keep in mind that the roads can get very crowded around rush hour.

Layout of Kumamoto City

The area to the east of the castle until the Shirakawa River is considered Kumamoto’s downtown. The tram line runs along Densha Dori Street, which bisects Kumamoto’s main shopping arcade into the Kamitori and Shimotori sections.

The southern arcade is Shimotori, and it is the bustling section of downtown with all kinds of places to eat and shop packed within a few small blocks.

The northern arcade is Kamitori, which is a little quieter than Shimotori with a more laid-back vibe. One street east of Kamitori is Kaminoura Dori, which is a narrow back street lined with excellent restaurants the locals like to frequent.

West of Shimotori and south of the castle is the new Sakuramachi Bus Terminal and shopping complex. Both local and long-distance buses are available here.

About 10 minutes south of downtown by bus or tram is Kumamoto Station. For a long time, Kumamoto Station was pretty underwhelming, with a chintzy station building and nothing around it. After the shinkansen came in 2011, the station was rebuilt and newfangled skyscrapers started popping up. There still isn’t too much to do here compared to downtown, but it’s better than it was!

Getting around Kumamoto City

Most places you’d want to see in the city are downtown and within walking distance. The Shiromegurin Castle Loop Bus is a sightseeing bus that costs ¥160 per ride and links the castle and the station stops along the way at points of interest.

The tram is also convenient in getting between the station, downtown, and Suizenji. It costs ¥170 per ride. There is also a single-day tram pass that costs ¥500 and allows unlimited tram rides for a day (buses not included). Passes are available at the Kumamoto Station Tourist Info Center and directly from the tram driver.

For buses, Sakuramachi Bus Terminal offers the most convenient access with the most tourist information, but much of the information is only in Japanese. Local bus routes can be notoriously difficult to navigate, so avoid buses unless you have a specific bus number and stop you are going to.

Kumamoto has plenty of taxis. They are cheaper than in larger cities and, like most taxis in Japan, are clean, safe, and convenient. While they might be a little expensive for the solo traveller, a taxi may be a viable option for a trio.

Uber and other similar car hire apps are not yet active in Kumamoto, so taxis are your only option for now.

Car Rentals

If you have an international or Japanese license, renting a car is recommended in Kumamoto, especially if you’re looking to venture outside of the city.

Keep in mind that cars drive on the left in Japan. Drivers from places like the US and Australia might also be surprised at just how narrow some of the streets are here. Kumamoto is known throughout Japan for having an especially baffling street layout, so keep this in mind as well if you are thinking about renting a car.

Car share is available via Times in the downtown area, so if you are registered with them, car sharing is also an option.

1-Day Kumamoto Itinerary

If you’re limited on time and only have a day to spend in Kumamoto, you can still cover the major downtown sights.

Any trip to Kumamoto City starts at Kumamoto Castle. Before exploring the inside, we recommend heading to the 14th floor of City Hall (the big brown building across the street) for an aerial view of the castle. Don’t feel shy; you’ll be rubbing shoulders with city hall staff and locals on the elevators, but the view is well worth it.

Next up, cross the street towards the castle and head along the river opposite the long castle wall (the wall, Nagabei, is the longest castle wall in Japan). The walkway ends around 300 meters ahead; head right over the bridge and diagonally to your left is Sakuranobaba Josaien, our next stop.

Sakuranobaba Josaien

Josaien is a collection of local shops and eateries in a historic reproduction of a merchant town. You’ll find all kinds of Kumamoto specialties here, including horsemeat snacks, tofu ice cream, taipien noodles, and more.

There isn’t anywhere to eat inside the castle, so if you are looking for a snack or a meal before heading in, it’s best to eat at Josaien or buy something you can bring with you.

During the warmer months of the year, Josaien has a Soft Serve Ice Cream Fair, where visitors can try one of dozens of different delicious soft serve cones offered at the various Josaien eateries.

If you’re looking for a full meal, my recommendation is Ginnan , a buffet restaurant located to the rear of Josaien. The buffet is reasonably priced and features a lot of Kumamoto specialties.

Wakuwakuza Kumamoto Castle Museum

Inside the complex, you’ll find the Wakuwakuza Kumamoto Castle Museum. If you are planning on visiting the castle (as you should), combo tickets for the castle and the museum are available that are considerably cheaper than buying tickets separately.

This small museum acts as a great introduction to some of the history and culture of the castle and Kumamoto City. If you have time, be sure to catch the dynamic 096k (pronounced “O’Clock) theater troupe performance on the second floor. The show is about 60 minutes long and follows the exploits of the eccentric samurai Maeda Keiji as he visits Kumamoto.

Next, grab an ice cream and a drink and make your way to the stairs at the rear of Josaien towards Kumamoto Castle.

Kumamoto Castle

At the top of the stairs, head right towards the entrance to Kumamoto Castle. Tickets are available for purchase here if you didn’t buy one at Wakuwakuza. Entry for adults is ¥800 (as of August 2022).

The city of Kumamoto was struck by a series of devastating earthquakes in 2016, the strongest registering as magnitude 7.0. These were the strongest series of earthquakes to hit Kumamoto in the 400 years since the castle was built, and there was extensive damage to nearly all of the castle’s stone walls, turrets, and keep. Complete reconstruction is expected to take decades, but they are rebuilding the most important sections first.

Elevated Walkway

The first major reconstruction project involved building an elevated walkway over the collapsed walls and into the core of the castle. This is where you’ll start as you pass through the ticket gate.

Because parts of the castle grounds are designated National Treasures, no new construction is allowed to alter their structure. This means two things: all of the collapsed stone walls need to be put back together exactly as they were before the earthquakes; and this elevated walkway can’t be anchored by foundations dug into the ground.

To get around this, enormous cement blocks were placed on top of the ground to anchor the walkway. The walkway now allows access to the castle even during construction, and can be removed without damaging the grounds when construction is complete. This enormous construction is actually meant to be temporary and will be removed once repairs are complete (a couple decades in the future).

After taking some photos and climbing some stairs, you’ll find your way to a short tunnel under a large building. This is the Honmaru Goten and was reconstructed in 2008. The Honmaru Goten is a large hall where the lord welcomed and entertained guests to his castle. Unfortunately, it was only open for a few years before it was heavily damaged in the earthquakes.

Head under the Honmaru Goten and you’ll see a path running under the Honmaru Goten to your left. This is called the Kuragari Tsuro and was the official entrance into the central citadel. The lord’s visitors would enter this underground tunnel and climb a staircase to arrive in the entrance hall of the Honmaru Goten.

On the opposite side of the tunnel lie the inner courtyard and the castle keeps.

Kumamoto Castle Main and Minor Keeps

The main draw of Kumamoto Castle is its towering keep. The keep itself is divided into the Main and Minor Keeps. The keep complex is a concrete reconstruction built in 1960 that actually floats above the stone walls. Keeping all that weight of the keeps off the walls helped the keep foundations fare better during the earthquakes.

The keeps themselves didn’t escape harm but, instead of simply repairing them, the interior of the keeps has been transformed into a beautiful 6-floor museum brimming with interesting exhibits and artifacts. There is an elevator to the top, but it is only for people who are unable to take the stairs.

If you don’t understand Japanese, you’ll need to download the Kumamoto Castle companion app to understand all of the signs and videos inside the museum. You can download the app here for the iPhone or here for Android .

Each floor of the museum covers a different era in the castle’s history. The top floor is a lookout deck that offers 360-degree views over downtown Kumamoto City. Give yourself a good hour or so to explore the exhibits and enjoy the views. There are also small AR markers on the windows on the top floor that, when viewed through the castle app, overlay historical photos over the modern landscape of Kumamoto.

After making your way up, down, and out of the keeps, head out of the North Exit from the castle and make a quick stop at Kato Shrine.

Kato Shrine

Kato Shrine is dedicated to Lord Kato Kiyomasa, the builder of Kumamoto Castle. After a couple relocations, the shrine is now located within the castle grounds and is a great spot to take photos of the keeps. Kato Shrine also offers a great view of Uto Yagura, one of the few original wooden structures of the castle. Visitors used to be able to go inside Uto Yagura pre-earthquake, but the building is currently closed.

If you got an early start to your day and are about ready for lunch, head either back to Josaien or go to the Shimotori Arcade area and you’ll find plenty of options.

If you’ve got nice weather and a couple more hours to spend, hop on the tram and head to Suizenji Jojuen Garden.

Suizenji Jojuen Garden

This traditional garden takes about 15 minutes by tram from downtown Kumamoto and is a quiet oasis among the bustle of the city. Be sure to get off at Suizenji Park and not Shinsuizenji Station. After getting off the tram, head north down the diagonal street until you see a big torii gate and a shopping street that leads to the park entrance.

Admission costs ¥400 per adult (as of August 2022). Once inside the park, check out the Kokindenju-no-ma Teahouse, a historic thatched-roof building that overlooks the Suizenji pond. If you purchase a matcha or coffee and sweet cake set, you can sit in the teahouse while you enjoy your snack.

If you follow the path to the left of Kokindenju-no-ma around the pond, you’ll soon find Izumi Shrine. Izumi Shrine is dedicated to the members of the Hosokawa family who ruled Kumamoto in the centuries following the rule of Kato Kiyomasa. The Hosokawas were proponents of the arts and built Suizenji Jojuen as a garden to enjoy tea ceremony, horticulture, and noh theater.

The garden itself is a great place for a stroll. The mound in the center of the garden is supposed to represent Mt. Fuji. To the rear of the garden, you’ll find a long track that is used a few times a year for yabusame (horseback archery) demonstrations. Suizenji is especially busy in early January for New Year’s celebrations and for college students getting dressed up to take photos for Coming of Age Day.

If you’re a fan of the One Piece manga and anime franchise, there is a statue of Luffy in front of the Kumamoto Prefectural Offices, which are about a 10-minute walk from Suizenji. Check out our other article here for the locations of the other One Piece characters. Ajisen Ramen, one of the world’s largest ramen chains, hails from Kumamoto and its first store is also located near the Luffy statue.

Once you’ve had your fill of Suizenji, hop back on the tram to head downtown. If you’re feeling hungry (or ready for a drink), I recommend trying out the Kaminoura Dori area.

Kaminoura Dori

In contrast to the busier, more commercial Shimotori and Kamitori Arcades, Kaminoura Dori (a street that runs parallel to the Kamitori Arcade) is more laid-back and with a bit more character. Along Kaminoura, you’ll find specialty coffee shops, boutique clothing stores, great places to eat, and more. A number of restaurants and shops are located in old houses that have been expertly renovated into retro-styled buildings bursting with character.

Here are a couple of my recommendations from south to north.

Terrace : Fantastic Brazilian-style churrasco buffet in a very unique former residence.

Akagumi : Authentic Kumamoto ramen at a very reasonable price.

Cafe Lacadio : Great little wine bar and bottle shop with wide selection of wines and tasty snacks.

And Coffee : One of Kumamoto’s first specialty coffee shops, offering basic coffee drinks and fresh-roasted beans.

Yokobachi : An izakaya that sprawls throughout an old house, its veranda, and its spacious courtyard. The menu is filled with Kumamoto specialties like basashi (horsemeat sashimi), karashi renkon (fried lotus root stuffed with spicy mustard miso), and more. Loved by locals and travelers alike.

Ninoni : Hopping gyoza spot offering a tasty menu, great atmosphere, and reasonable prices.

Ruri-an : Upscale dining featuring gorgeous dishes made with local ingredients. Impressive wine and sake list. Reservations required.

Yakoboku : Small yet fantastic new-wave cocktail bar hidden under Ruri-an. Recipient of numerous top bartender awards.

Nini : Somewhat hard-to-find bar & restaurant offering great food and a surprisingly deep selection of rare spirits. Great place to geek out with the owner about alcohol.

So that about covers the standard one-day stay in Kumamoto City. If you’ve got more time to spend in Kumamoto, the Aso region with its smoking volcano and beautiful landscapes is a must-visit (and take special Aso-Boy train there if you can schedule it!).

If you’ve got even more time to spend, try exploring seaside Amakusa or head to the secluded Hitoyoshi-Kuma region for great shochu and countryside hospitality.

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Kumamoto Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

A complete travel guide with things to do in Kumamoto city. My 1-Day Kumamoto itinerary includes what to do and the best food to eat while visiting here.

Situated at the central part on Kyushu island, Kumamoto (熊本) is one of Japan’s city known for its stunning historical castle. Although the Kumamoto was hit by an earthquake in 2016, and many of its famous sightseeing attraction was damaged due to the natural disaster. We still decided to plan for a 1-day trip to Kumamoto and make it our first stop when we first arrived in Kyushu. The city is still undergoing extensive repair work especially the castle area. But it is so lovely and worth planning on your itinerary when visiting Kyushu.

If you are planning for the Kumamoto itinerary, this Kumamoto travel blog will help you. You’ll find all the best things to do, what to eat and all the useful information you need to know. These useful Kumamoto travel guides include a transportation guide, must eat Kumamto food guide, and best places to stay if you are visiting Kumamoto. Read on my Kumamoto travel blog.

Table of Contents

How To Get To Kumamoto

Firstly, depending on what type of transport you choose to get there, Kumamoto is easy to access by flight, shinkansen, train, or even by bus. There are two main stations in the city area. If you are getting to Kumamoto by train, Kumamoto station is your destination. While most highway bus will end their service at Kumamoto Kotsu Cente / Kumamoto Sakuramachi Bus Terminal (熊本桜町バスターミナル) in the city center.

The nearest airport is Kumamoto Airport which located 40 minutes bus ride from the city center. While most of the international travelers are visiting Kumamoto as part of their Kyushu trip from Fukuoka airport. Direct bus service running between Fukuoka airport to Kumamoto. The journey takes about 2 hours at ¥2,280.

Getting to Kumamoto from Fukuoka city (Hakata Station) is the most common traveling route. There are a few ways to get to Kumamoto:

• Bullet train Kyushu Shinkansen to Kumamoto Station takes only 47 minutes at ¥4,700 
• JR train to Kumamoto Station takes about 2 hours at ¥2,800 
• The highway bus to Kumamoto Sakuramachi Bus Terminal takes about 2 hours at ¥2,280

If you are planning to travel to Kumamoto and nearby by train, consider getting the Kyushu JR Pass (3-Days/5-Days) which will greatly save on the transportation pass. This money-saving transportation pass is valid for foreign visitors only.

Getting Around in Kumamoto City

There are two tram lines and city buses running in Kumamoto. A single ride on the tram cost at flat ¥170 while one day pass costs 500 yen. If your Kumamoto itinerary use for at least 3 rides, consider purchasing the one day tram pass for easy getting around. Otherwise, it is also very convenient to use the SUICA, ICOCA, and other Japanese transportation IC cards or even cash when getting to the tram.

From Kumamoto station to the city center required about 10 minutes by tram or bus. Once you are in the central area, most of the things to do and must-visit attraction can be access by walking.

1-Day Kumamoto Itinerary

During our 1-Day Kumamoto itinerary, we visited Kumamoto castle and explore it for an entire day in the city area. We spend time exploring the Kumamoto Castle, meet the national character Kumamon, and taste the mouth-watering must eat famous food in Kumamoto. 

1-Day Kumamoto itinerary:

• Arrive Kumamoto. Taste the Kumamoto local Specialties (1-2 hours)
• Visit Kumamoto Castle (1-2 hours)
• Wandering around in Sakuranobaba Johsaien (1 hour)
• Ride the Kumamoto Shiden
• Meet the iconic Kumamon in alive (1 hour)
• Aerial view on Kumamoto city at City Hall (30 minutes to 1 hour)
• Shopping in Shimotori Shopping Arcade (1-2 hours)

Taste the Kumamoto Local Specialties

We first headed for lunch once check-in to our accommodation in Kumamoto. The Kumamoto Nest Hotel located just beside the Sakuramachi Bus Terminal. The strategic location will greatly save us a lot of time and energy as we will traveling to nearby attractions by bus.

Basashi so-called the horse meat sashimi is one of the local specialties in Kumamoto. We visited the Suganoya, best restaurant in Kumamoto serving the delicious basashi. It is also one of the must-try food in Kumamamoto and highly recommended by locals.

Suganoya (菅乃屋 ) provides a variety of horse meat dishes such as sashimi, sushi, pot dishes, roasted horse meat, and lunch course meal. They serve different cut of parts in various cooking methods. And the best-processed meat is served in sashimi. We ordered the lunch course meal to taste on the delicious horse meat. Surprisingly, horse meat is juicy and tender. It taste good and delicious. We highly recommended tasting on this local specialties in Kumamoto.

Visit Kumamoto Castle

The Kumamoto Castle (熊本城, Kumamotojō) is one of the three most impressive and extremely well-fortified castle complex in Japan. Build since the early 1600s and took about 7 years to construct the castle building. The Kumamoto castle features a variety of historical buildings with large castle grounds and surroundings.

The castle consists of two towers: a six stories main tower and a smaller four stories tower. One of the unique attractions of Kumamoto Castle is the reconstruction of Honmaru Goten Palace by using original material and methods. Visitors can view on its glamour building and display. The whole castle surrounding also features with impressive stone walls and moats, as well as several turrets and storehouses.

umamoto Castle probably the top attraction in the Kumamoto. Sadly is the castle encounter severely damaged due to earthquakes in 2016. Most of the building are badly impacted. It required many years of repairing work to reconstruct back to its original. During the renovated period, no entrance ticket required to view on the spectacular Kumamoto Castle.

During our visit, we were so lucky to join the Kumamoto Castle’s Grand Unveiling since October 2019. Many areas are still close for repairing and most of the building are close for visit. But the inner ground is now partly open for visitors after partial of repairing work completed. We were able to get closer and take the photographs of this impressive castle building. Don’t miss the chance to view on the re-open Kumamoto Castle if you are visiting here. The whole castle complex is very big. Estimate to spend about 2 hours to visit the castle area.

Wandering Around Sakuranobaba Johsaien

Located just 200 meters from the castle entrance, Sakuranobaba Johsaien (桜の馬場城彩苑 ) is a street revived of old castle town. It is full of the traditional atmosphere of the old streets of Japan. Visitors can experience the Kumamoto’s history and culture while walking along the street. More than 20 shops, selling local specialties and souvenirs of Kumamon.

There is a place called Wakuwakuza, a little mini-museum where you learn about Kumamoto’s history and try some unique costumes. If you are coming at the right time, there are also Samurai performance show to entertain visitors. Too bad we did not come at the right time.

It’s a very interesting place if you want to take a look at the old Japanese Edo period. Take some rest and snack before or after the castle visit. We just simply wandering around after back from the castle area. Free shuttle bus service provided that goes around the castle ground.

Sakuranobaba Johsaien

• Address : 1-1-1 Ninomaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto
• Opening hours : Weekday from 0900 to 1900 while weekend from 0900 to 2000

Ride The Kumamoto Shiden

One of the most convenient ways to travel from Kumamoto station to the downtown area. The tram stops almost every point of interest in the city area. A good experience for riding on Kumamoto Shiden to see the locals, street scenes and surrounding area.

All the streetcar are in different models, age and color schemes. It costs just ¥ 170 for each ride regardless of distance. And you plan to take more than 3 rides, getting a day pass is more sensible. Simply get on and off anytime that you want. The best way to traveling around the city area.

Meet The Kumamon

One of the popular family activities when visiting Kumamoto is to meet the famous iconic mascot, Kumamon in alive. The real Kumamon will come to appear on the square with dance and performance. For sure kids will thoroughly enjoy the show.

We pay a visit to Kumamon’s office located on the ground floor of the Tsuraya Department store. It consists of a small souvenir store, a mini auditorium and an office. You may spot Kumamon with performance if coming at the right time. So remember to check his schedule online to find out what time will he be in the office. It is a great experience to see Kumamon performing for 30 minutes in person.

We were not fans of Kumamon but went there out of curiosity since Kumamon seems to be popular. We arrived 30 minutes before the show. Surprisingly the Kumamon Square was packed with tourists and kids even at weekday. The entrance was close when the seat was full. So remember to come early if you want to watch the show.

We were sort of fantasized when entered. Lots of Kumamon related merchandise were sold there. The Kumamon is coming for performance on time. He is full of energy with lots of personality. It is a funny scene when Kumamon was performing. Although the show is speaking in Japanese, you still can feel the atmosphere and everyone’s enthusiasm during performance. At the end of the show, we all fall in love with this cute mascot.

Kumamon’s Office

• Address : 8-2 Tetorihoncho, Chuo-ku ( 1F of Tsuraya Department Store)
• Opening hours : Daily from 1000 to 1900
• Website : http://www.kumamon-sq.jp/

Aerial View on Kumamoto City from City Hall

Next, we proceeded to Kumamoto City Hall to get some aerial views. This City Hall is a government building and not a tourist spot. But, it is free to enter and the best place for photo opportunities. We get to the observation deck on the 14th floor. From there, we take a lookout over the castle and downtown area for spectacular views on the city.

We spend about 30 minutes to have a full view of the city before proceed to the next destination.

Kumamoto City Hall

• Address : 1-1, Tetorihon-cho, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto-shi
• Opening hours : Weekday from 0830 to 2200 while weekend and holiday from 0900 to 2200

Shopping at Shimotori Shopping Arcade

Next, we spend the rest of our day wandering around in Shimotori shopping street. It is the most lively area in Kumamoto with countless shops and restaurants in the busy shopping street. Here you can find discount pharmacies, cosmetics, souvenirs, electronics and household shops along the street. The popular Japan’s brand such as MUJI, GU, Uniqlo can be also found in the department store. Besides, there are also sushi bars, izakaya, ramen shops and Japanese-styled restaurants for food and drink.

Alternatively, you can also enjoy a cup of coffee and dessert at one of the cafes in Shimotori street.

Kumamoto Food Guide: What To Eat in Kumamoto

Most of the best food in Kumamoto is located at the Shimotori shopping street which nearby the Kumamoto Castle. There are many famous food and local specialties to eat in Kumamoto. If you are looking for what to eat in Kumamoto, here are a few recommendation food to try on.

• Kumamoto Ramen
• Basashi, or horse meat sashimi
• Extra Thick Tonkatsu
• Taipiien (Vermicelli Soup)
• Local snack food: Horaku manju (Japanese cake)

Besides, we have listed the Kumamoto Food Guide: What To Eat in Kumamoto for all the best food that we try during our visit. Read on if you are looking at what to eat in Kumamoto. We tried the horse meal in Suganoya Kumamoto and had the best tonkatsu ever at Katsuretsutei. Read on our Kumamoto food review here:

• Suganoya Kumamoto: Must Try Food in Kumamoto
• Katsuretsutei Kumamoto: Best Tonkatsu Ever

Accommodation Guide: Where To Stay in Kumamoto

Looking for the best hotel and area for where to stay in Kumamoto ? Due to its strategic location and transport accessibility, Kumamoto is a great base for visitors to plan for a day trip to Aso, Takachiho Gorge, or Kurokawa Onsen. If you are planning for traveling attractions mentioned, the best place to stay in Kumamoto is nearby the train or bus station. Our major transportation to Kumamoto is by bus. So we decided to stay nearby the Kumamoto Sakuramachi Bus Terminal. It is also a lively urban area with good food and sightseeing attraction within walking distance.

Dormy Inn Kumamoto Natural Hot Spring strategic located just in front of the Kumamoto Bus Terminal. The Kumamoto castle and shopping street are located nearby within walking distance. The in-hotel onsen with a public bath can be enjoyed for hotel guests. Complimentary ramen and free beer at night which is great. Added, there is a free shuttle service from Kumamoto Station to the hotel with reservation required. One of the best picks for where to stay in Kumamoto.

Next, Nest Hotel is another great choice for the traveler who stays nearby the Sakuramachi Bus Terminal with only 1 minutes walk. So it is a great choice for travelers who plan to travel by bus to nearby attractions. The room is all your need with a comfortable bed with friendly staff supported.

While Mitsui Garden Hotel is another top pick for travelers when visiting Kumamoto. It is is a 5-minute walk from Sakuramachi Bus Terminal and centrally located at the city center. Easy access to top attractions in the city and the best food nearby. A clean and tiny room with all the amenities you need. Free parking also provided for hotel guests.

Besides, for budget travelers, consider taking a look at the Hotel The Gate Kumamoto which located nearby the JR train station. It featured a single room and dormitory bed for a solo traveler, a twin and a double room for a couple, and even a triple room. Everything is well organized with attentive staff ready to help.

Kumamoto Travel Tips

Kumamoto is famous for Kumamoto Castle, the top three premier castles in Japan, and also Suizenji Park, one of the three most famous gardens in Japan.

The easiest way to get around Kumamoto City is by streetcar which provides convenient access between Kumamoto station and major attractions. Two tram lines running through the city with ¥170 flat rate per ride

If you only have limited time to plan for a 1-Day Kumamoto itinerary, we recommended visiting the Kumamoto Castle, go for a stroll at Suizenji-jojuen, wandering around Sakuranobaba Johsaien and Shimotori Shopping Arcade.

If you have more time, it is best to plan to visit the nearby attraction from Kumamoto such as Mt Aso, Kurokawa Onsen and even Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki.

Kumamoto Travel Guide Vlog

For a quick idea on how to plan for your Kumamoto itinerary, take a 7-minutes video tour of how we spend 4-days in Kumamoto prefecture to Kumamoto city, Takachiho Gorge (Miyazaki), Aso, and Kurokawa Onsen.

If you like our video, don’t forget to give us a like and subscribe to us on youtube. Thanks!

Overview: Planning on Kumamoto Itinerary

In short, Kumamoto is an amazing place to visit if you are planning for your Kyushu itinerary. We only spend the entire for 1-Day Kumamoto itinerary and visited the city area. But there are still many wonderful things to do in Kumamoto Prefecture. We spend time and visited Aso, Kurokawa Onsen which located 2 hours of traveling time from Kumamoto. Added, Takachiho George also can be convenient access by highway bus from Kumamoto.

• Where to Stay in Kumamoto: Best hotel and areas
• Things To Do in Aso For 1-Day Aso Itinerary
• Kurokawa Onsen: A Guide To Natural Hot Spring Town
• Takachiho Gorge Travel Guide: 1-Day Itinerary Blog

Lastly, don’t forget to continue read on our travel blog after visiting those amazing places in Kumamoto. Happy travel and enjoy your trip!

A complete Kyushu Travel Guide: How To Plan Your Kyushu itinerary

Northern Kyushu (Fukuoka, Kurokawa Onsen, Beppu, Yufuin, Kitakyushu, and more):

• Fukuoka Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide
• Beppu Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
• Yufuin Travel Guide: Must Eat Food And Things To Do
• Nagasaki Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• [Kitakyushu] 1-Day Kitakyushu Itinerary To Shimonoseki, Mojiko, Kokura

Southern Kyushu (Kagoshima, Miyazaki, Takachiho Gorge):

• Kagoshima itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Day Trip Sakurajima Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Miyazaki Itinerary: What to do and eat in Miyazaki

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Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, kumamoto guide: a day trip from fukuoka.

I visited the Kyushu region of Japan in September. This post covers Kumamoto, the city that brings you Kumamon and Ikinari Dango, and a small road trip to Daikanbo.

The city of Kumamoto was hit with an unfortunate series of strong earthquakes on April 2016. It left the city without water, damaged the precious Kumamoto castle, and caused many transportation disruptions including airport and road closures.

By the time I visited in September, the effects of the earthquake have subsided but can still be seen. This didn’t deter us from enjoying the city though, and in fact, the road trip to Daikanbo was the highlight of the entire Kyushu trip for me.

How to get to Kumamoto from Fukuoka

Kumamoto is very accessible from Fukuoka. It is an easy 40 minutes Shinkansen ride from the Hakata Station in Fukuoka, AND the shinkansen leaves every 15 minutes. If you have purchased a JR Pass for your trip, this ride is included for free. It really doesn’t get any more convenient than this.

We arrived at around 11 am in Kumamoto, greeted with excellent weather. It was such a treat considering the rest of our Kyushu trip was overcast and gloomy thanks to Typhoon Namtheun.

How to rent a car from Kumamoto Station

On this trip, we knew we wanted to visit the mountain area outside of Kumamoto so renting a car became the most logical step. Just outside of Kumamoto station, there are a few choices of car rentals company you can consider. We went with Nippon Rent-A-Car and paid around 9200 yen (US$86) for a 12-hour car rental including gas. Thankfully for us, Yuri speaks fluent Japanese so renting a car was a breeze as we let him do all the work from renting the car… to driving us around 🙂

But I think the staff would be able to assist you even if you don’t speak Japanese. The car we got came complete with a GPS which can be switched to English. I remember this because they asked us if we’d like to switch to English, but we didn’t need to because our designated driver speaks Japanese!

Visiting the damaged Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto Castle was just a short 10 minutes drive from the station. As soon as we got there, we parked our cars and made our way toward the castle perimeter. The damage from the earthquake can be seen right away – rubbles are spilling out of the castle’s stone wall perimeter and the main gate was not accessible, so we had to walk around the castle wall to a side entrance.

The Kumamoto Castle itself was indeed a grand castle. It’s a shame we couldn’t get closer to it. One fascinating feat I learned about the castle is that it withstood the strong 7.0 earthquake, just as its Japanese architects had intended when the castle was built four centuries ago. During the earthquake, much of the roof tiles slid off and fell to the ground, causing what was perceived to be a severe damage to the castle. However, this was actually by design to ‘lighten up’ the castle and prevent the entire structure from collapsing.

The visit was free since we couldn’t enter the castle premise. But, you are welcome to contribute to the funds of restoring the Kumamoto castle via this very cute Kumamon donation box. (Wait! what is Kumamon, you ask? I will expand on this at the end of this post)

Drive up Route 339 to Daikanbo

We had heard that parts of the road to Mount Aso, a beautiful mountain just outside of Kumamoto, were still closed from the landslides caused by the earthquake.Earlier at the car rental place we were given a map indicating which roads were closed at the time. We were actually very lucky that the roads were re-opened one day before our arrival. Although going up the mountain was possible, we decided to not visit Mount Aso itself. Instead we opted to go up to a look out point called Daikanbo since we heard great things about it.

If you are thinking of visiting Mount Aso by car, I suggest checking to see if there are any road closures!

The drive up to Daikanbo, which means “peak of great view” took less than two hours and it is indeed very scenic as the name suggests. We followed Route 339 , which turns into a narrow two-way lane as seen in the picture above.

After about an hour of driving, we made a pit stop at Kabutoiwa View Point (marked as かぶと岩展望所 in Google Maps) for a toilet break. We ended up staying for 20 minutes because the scene from Kabutoiwa was just absolutely breathtaking. It’s one of those places where pictures just can’t do any justice!

From Kabutoiwa we drove ten more minutes to reach Daikanbo. We parked our car and did a (very) short hike up to the viewpoint. I made sure to stop by the store and buy some snacks before that (because of course).

Once at the top, we spotted a group of 4-5 Paragliders whimsically floating around. It made me really want to try Paragliding someday! I guess since the day was pretty windy, it makes for a great paragliding condition.

Kumamoto specialties: Kumamon and Ikinari Dango

When in Kumamoto, there are two things you absolutely must experience: the Kumamon overload and tasting an Ikinari Dango.

Kumamon, the Kumamoto Mascot

Kumamon is the black bear mascot of Kumamoto prefecture, created to boost tourism to the region. Kumamon picked up popularity around Japan, and then globally. Nowadays I see Kumamon goodies even in Singapore!

Obviously, being the official mascot and all, he isn’t difficult to find in Kumamoto. Right when you get off the train you immediately see a ton of Kumamon-branded goods, like cakes, magnets, shirt, everything! And it’s near impossible miss this giant Kumamon head at the train station lobby.

If you love Kumamon, there is even a dedicated area called Kumamon Square where you can get even more Kumamon items.

Ikinari Dango

Ikinari Dango is a Kumamoto dumpling snack filled with red bean paste and sweet potato. “Ikinari” is Kumamoto slang for “sudden” so the literal translation of this snack is “sudden dumpling” or “instant dumpling” since the dumpling can be very easily prepared! You can find Ikinari Dango everywhere in Kumamoto, including the train station’s souvenir store.

Visiting Kumamoto after the big earthquake

The question I had in mind before visiting Kumamoto was whether it was worth it – considering the main attraction, the Kumamoto Castle, is closed indefinitely. I had read before that it would take some time (years!) to fully restore and repair the earthquake damage.

But, I do think it’s still worth a visit even if it’s a short one. Besides there are a lot more to Kumamoto other than the castle! My advice would be to check on road/transportation closures before you go.

Kumamoto Earthquake Resources (English):

• Kyushu Earthquake from Japan Guide
• Kumamoto Earthquake from Welcome Kyushu
• Mount Aso from Japan Guide
• Japan Post News on the Kumamoto 2016 Earthquake

I will now end this post with something interesting we saw on the drive back down to Kumamoto station.

It’s a bunch of old cars compressed into boxes and jam-packed into a truck, ready to be recycled. I feel like one of them is going to unroll itself into a Transformer…

And that wraps up my experience of visiting Kumamoto.

Are you planning a trip to Japan? Check out my posts from Kyushu and Japan!

12 Comments

• April 22, 2023

Hi Melissa, thanks for sharing Kumamoto. It is a wonderful place to travel here. You can also experience many “Onsen” hot springs in Kumamoto. Hope you can come back and enjoy them.

• February 17, 2019

Nice pics of Kabutoiwa and Daikanbo. What serenity! thanks for sharing.

• December 29, 2018

Thank you for the inspiring guide. Makes me want to go to Kumamoto as a side visit during our Fukuoka trip this coming February. Question, can you rent a car with driver from the train station, to go around Kumamoto?

Hey Shale, sorry I don’t know if it’s possible to get a driver. I also think it would be quite expensive since a taxi is already expensive in Japan. Perhaps you can look into getting a tour package?

• February 21, 2018

Great read! May i know what is the best time to visit Kyushu? Am planning to go around the end of the year, October, would it be a good time?

Hey Adrian – Japan is great all year round! October should be good as the weather starts to get cooler, but if you can, I would recommend trying to go in November because the autumn foliage would be at full peak in Kyushu. You can refer to my post on Momijigari in Japan here

• June 30, 2019

Thanks for writing this blog – very interesting. I will caveat by saying Kyushu has a rainy season (literally rain every day) during June/ July so do check accordingly. I’m currently travelling around Kyushu during this time and the rain does affect the trip a lot.

• August 13, 2017

Hi Mellisa, thanks for sharing! This is an amazing post, and I like the cleanness of your photos and I am also a big fun of Kumamon 🙂 I didn’t find you mention Suizenji Jojuen Garden(I saw some itineraries mentioned it, like this https://www.43km.co/published_trips/14def7a0-26e8-48cf-8fb1-bf74b9ca1048?cost=%240+-+%241500&days=1+-+10&query=kumamoto ), have you been to this attraction? If you have, do you think it is worth to visit? Thanks.

• August 20, 2017

Hey Leon, the only reason why I didn’t mention the garden is because I had very limited time in Kumamoto! I believe the garden was something I considered visiting, but with the time I had (just a day trip from Fukuoka) we decided to do the road trip instead.

• December 20, 2016

Thank you for visiting Kumamoto which is my hometown. I used to stay in Singapore too 🙂 Enjoy more traveling and hope your come back to Kyushu, Japan again!

• November 13, 2016

the dango is my favourite in Kumamoto:) nice pics!

• November 14, 2016

Thanks Minh 😀

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If you like nature, Kumamoto is also a nice destination; Suizenji Park is perfect for photographs, while Mount Aso is one of the world’s largest active volcanoes. Take a look at the unique Tsujun Bridge for some architectural magnificence.

One popular activity in Kumamoto is riding the scenic Steam Locomotive Hitoyoshi; make sure you get reserve seats well in advance, as tickets sell out surprisingly quickly. Kumamoto is also famous for its raw horse sashimi; if you can’t muster up the courage to try that, have some tonkotsu (pork-bone broth) noodles instead. 

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12 BEST THINGS TO DO in KUMAMOTO, JAPAN

All the reasons why I wanted to visit Kumamoto can be succinctly put in two words: Kumamon and ramen. Kumamon is the official mascot of Kumamoto prefecture, but he has taken over the entire country by storm. In my early years of traveling around Japan, I could see this cute mascot almost everywhere, which sparked my curiosity. Kumamoto ramen, on the other hand, was the last item on my ramen checklist.

Although these are my two main motivations in setting foot in Kumamoto, this underrated destination has a lot more to offer. Recently, JR Kyushu invited us to explore and see for ourselves the many natural and historical attractions scattered throughout the prefecture.

Kumamoto is one of the seven prefectures that make up Kyushu Island. It’s situated south of Fukuoka and west of Oita and Miyazaki. Its most prominent feature is Mt. Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan, towering over the larger ancient Aso caldera. While most tourists only get to see the cultural heritage of Kumamoto City, the capital, many countryside tours are centered around the caldera area.

If you’re planning to visit Kumamoto, here are some of the best things to do and places to visit in both Kumamoto City and Kumamoto Prefecture.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Daikanbo Peak

Perched on the tallest of Aso caldera’s rim, Daikanbo (sometimes spelled Daikambo) is a lookout point that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the caldera. The most fascinating sight here are the five peaks of Mt. Aso , which together form a silhouette of a sleeping Buddha in the distance. If your timing is right, you might even see it as though the Buddha is floating on a sea of clouds.

You’ll also enjoy a full view of Aso City below and the grass-carpeted rolling hills that surround the viewpoint. The site is very Instagram-worthy that we spent a lot of time just taking photos in the grass. If you get hungry, the souvenir shop near the parking area also sells some Japanese snacks.

Kumamoto Castle

Many Japanese cities that flourished in the olden days take pride in their own magnificent castle, and Kumamoto is no exception. Kumamoto Castle is a massive, commanding structure in the heart of the city. The original building was constructed in 1607, but most of what stands today are just faithful reconstructions. Still, it is worth your time if you’re a history or architecture buff.

Hundreds of cherry trees also surround the castle, which makes it a stunning sakura watching site every spring!

Important! Much of the castle was severely damaged by the 2016 earthquakes. Some parts are restricted and open only on weekends. Make sure to check the updated schedule before your visit.

Sakura-no-baba Johsaien

Ushering tourists to the entrance to the Kumamoto Castle grounds is Sakuranobaba Johsaien, a new tourist hotspot which has the look and feel of an Edo-period town.

The main attraction here is the Wawakuza , an interactive exhibit that showcases the history of the city. Another highlight is the Sakuranokoji Shopping Arcade , composed of over 20 specialty stores and local restaurants. A stage is set up in the middle, where occasional samurai performances are performed. There is also a tourist information center, which makes it an essential stop when visiting the castle area.

Shimodori Street Arcade

Every major modern Japanese city also has their shopping arcade. In Kumamoto, it’s Shimodori , which straddles a number of blocks. This covered shopping street and stemming alleyways are flanked by dozens of stores, including a branch of Don Quijote, and a wide selection of restaurants — from fast food to yakiniku to sushi bars.

Suizenji Garden

Not too far away from Kumamoto Castle is Suizenji Jōjuen . It was originally part of a temple complex built in 1632 by the Hosokawa family. Today, it is an oasis of peace in a growing city. The arrangement of the garden gives a nod to the 53 post towns punctuating the old Tokaido highway that connects Kyoto and Tokyo back in the day.

Kumamoto Ramen

Like I said earlier, one of the reasons I was so excited to visit Kumamoto was the opportunity to fill my flabby face with authentic Kumamoto ramen.

Most people are very familiar with Hakata Ramen but not Kumamoto Ramen. They have lots of similarities. For starters, both has tonkotsu-based broth, which uses pork bones that are boiled and simmered for hours. Both ramen styles can also trace their roots to Kurume, where the original tonkotsu soup was created. But like close brothers, Hakata and Kumamoto went on their own separate ways.

While Hakata ramen would grow and become the most recognizable type in Japan, Kumamoto ramen isn’t as popular or even heard of outside Japan. Kumamoto often uses much thicker noodles than its northern neighbor. Hakata’s stock is often kotteri , which is rich, thick and opaque, while Kumamoto’s is usually assari , which means light and thin, most likely because most versions are blended with chicken stock. That said, despite being lighter-bodied, Kumamoto ramen also packs a ton of bold flavors. Thanks to the copious servings of garlic, which may come in many forms. Some bowls have a layer of rich mayu (burnt garlic oil), some with rather generous sprinkles of fried garlic chips, others have both. Regardless, it is this distinctly strong garlic flavor that sets it apart from other ramen styles.

I am a sucker for garlic and strong, bold, punch-ful flavors so Kumamoto ramen is definitely my cup of tea (or bowl of ramen?). It’s right up my alley. So I made sure that I would be able to try it while in the city. And I can say definitively that it’s one of my top three favorites.

Aso Beef (Akaushi)

Kumamoto’s land may be volcanic, but its map is shaded with miles of grasslands that are ideal for grazing cattle. One of the prefecture’s signature food product is Aso beef, which comes from Akaushi (Japanese brown cow or red cow), one of the four breeds of wagyu.

The term Aso beef is reserved for the meat from cows that are raised in the expansive grassland of the region. Like Kobe beef (which is from Japanese black cow), Aso beef is prized for its high-quality marbled meat. You can enjoy it as a donburi (rice topping) or yakiniku (grilled/barbeque).

Another meat delicacy in this part of Japan is horse meat. It’s not clear how horse became food in Kumamoto. Some say its origins can be traced back to the tale of samurai who were trapped with their horses in a castle for 2 months, without any other food source. Another account points to the period after World War II, when the horses became obsolete.

Horse meat is served at some yakiniku places, where you can grill it, and But the most usual way that locals enjoy this is by eating it raw. Called basashi , horse meat sashimi is a regular item at many restaurants not just in Kumamoto but other places in Kyushu. I spotted basashi at a restaurant in Saga and Fukuoka!

And yes, I tried it. We had a platter of basashi from different parts of a horse. This was already my second time eating horse meat, so I wasn’t averse to the idea. (The first time was in Kazakhstan.) The loin was really good and tender. It tasted much like beef but leaner. Some parts — I forgot which exactly! — are a bit chewy. Like fish sashimi, it is dipped in a sauce.

Kurokawa Onsen

For those who want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of big cities, Kurokawa Onsen is a place to consider. It is the most well-known hot spring towns in Kumamoto and fosters a traditional, rustic atmosphere. Tourists, mostly domestic, come here for rotenburo (outdoor baths) and ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). Its few streets are also lined by restaurants and shops.

Amakusa Dolphin Watching

Amakusa is a chain of islands off the coast of mainland Kumamoto. While much of the prefecture has embraced farming and the gifts their volcanic lands bring, the life in Amakusa revolves around the sea. From Amakusa, you can hop onto a tour boat to see some of the 200 wild Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins that frequent Ariake Sea.

The dolphins come to these waters every day, so tour guides are confident that you will see the dolphins. It is very, very rare that they don’t show up, according to them. Our tour guide said that in all her years in the business, the dolphins didn’t appear on only one occasion.

If the dolphins are a no-show during your visit, you will be given a voucher that entitles you to come back on another day and try again for free.

When it comes to popularity, economic success and cultural impact, few Japanese mascots can hold a candle to Kumamoto’s cute and cuddly Kumamon .

Kumamon is Kumamoto Prefecture’s official mascot, a wide-eyed red-cheeked black bear created to attract more tourists. Yet, his presence and influence is not limited within the confines of Kumamoto. He’s everywhere in Japan! I always see him in some form — stuffed, plastered, key-chained, projected — in other parts of the country.

According to South China Morning Post , “In just two years, Kumamon has generated US$1.2 billion in economic benefits for his region, including tourism and product sales.”

He’s also a YouTuber now, my gulay! Truly, Kumamon is not just a mascot. He’s a superstar! So I was really glad to set foot in his home prefecture!

Ride Special Trains

If you’re like me, you enjoy train rides tremendously. But not all trains are created equal. In Kumamoto, the journey can also be the attraction! Whether you’re traveling to or from Kumamoto Prefecture, you can catch two themed trains: the Aso Boy and the A-Train.

The Aso Boy is a limited express train that runs on Nippo Main Line and Hohi Main Line, connecting the cities of Oita and Bepu to Aso City in Kumamoto. The train’s mascot is Kuro, whom you’ll see everywhere on the train. This pretty boy will treat you to amazing views of the Aso caldera and the Kumamoto countryside.

But what makes Aso Boy different from all the other trains isn’t just in the packaging. It is loaded with amenities that passengers will surely appreciate including the following:

• A Panorama Section (Car-1, Car-4) with large front windows for a great view of the surrounding landscapes
• A spacious lounge where you can also enjoy the view and relax
• Kuro Cafe, which offers a selection of snacks and other original products
• A pool filled with wooden balls, perfect for children and children at heart A Japanese-style room
• A mini-library with a collection of picture books for kids

Another special limited express train running across Kumamoto is the A-Train , which operates on Amakusa-Misumi and Amakusa-Takarajima lines. Named after the jazz standard “Take the A-Train,” the A-Train is a vintage-themed beauty that will take you down the memory lane!

In the 16th century, Amakusa had a strong Southern European influence, which the A-Train takes on and showcases. Inside the cabins, you’ll find a dark wood and stained glass motif. Aside from its cool design, you’ll also find a bar on board, where you can watch the idyllic rural scenes pass by as you enjoy a glass of “A” Highball infused with local Dekopon oranges. Or if your sweet tooth is aching for dessert, munch on some Amakusa salt caramel or salt vanilla ice cream.

Both trains offer a quick photo op! Both are also covered by the JR Kyushu Rail Pass, which we will discuss below.

How to Get to Kumamoto

The nearest international airport is in Fukuoka. From here, you need to get to Hakata Station. Here’s how.

From Hakata Station, catch a shinkansen (bullet train) to Kumamoto. Travel time: around 40 minutes. Fare: ¥2,170 (one way) Seat Fee: ¥2,530 (unreserved) Total cost: ¥4,700 (one-way)

To see the schedule, you can check Hyperdia .

If you’re traveling from Fukuoka to Kumamoto or you plan to explore many parts of Kumamoto and other prefectures, consider getting a JR Kyushu Rail Pass to save a lot on fares! On our most recent trip, JR Kyushu gave us a JR Kyushu Rail Pass so we could use it extensively and see how far it could take us.

The JR Kyushu Rail Pass comes in three versions: Northern, Southern, and ALL Kyushu. But let’s focus on the two passes only: Northern and ALL Kyushu.

• If you’re interested to see Kumamoto City, Aso, and Misumi, the JR NORTHERN KYUSHU AREA PASS can suffice. It covers most of the key tourist attractions in the northern half of the prefecture as well as Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, and northern Oita. However, you won’t be able to use it to travel to stations south of Kumamoto Station or Aso Station. – Can be used for: Local trains, limited express trains, and Hakata-Kumamoto Shinkansen – Price: ¥8660 (3 days); ¥10,190 (5 days) – Number of seat reservations allowed: 10 (for 3 days), 16 (for 5 days)
• If you’re going to Shin-Yatsushiro and Hitoyoshi, you will need to purchase single tickets. However, if you also plan to visit more destinations in the south like Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures, consider getting the ALL KYUSHU AREA PASS instead. – Can be used for: Local trains, limited express trains, and Hakata-Kagoshima-chuo Shinkansen – Price: ¥15,280 (3 days); ¥18,330 (5 days) – Number of seat reservations allowed: 10 (for 3 days), 16 (for 5 days)

To give you an idea on how much savings you can get, here’s an example. The fare from Hakata (Fukuoka) to Kumamoto alone is roughly ¥4700 one-way , with unreserved seats. Round-trip, that’s almost ¥9,400 .

Just by purchasing a NORTHERN KYUSHU AREA PASS for those two trips, you would already save over ¥740. But this pass can also give you unlimited access to trains to explore the area and up to 10 seat reservations. Every other train ride you’re gonna make in between will fall under your savings.

You can purchase via Klook. You can book any of three versions through the link below.

How to Get to Fukuoka

For international travelers, Fukuoka is the gateway to Kumamoto. If you’re flying from Manila, Cebu Pacific offers some of the cheapest flights to Fukuoka. Travel time is about three hours.

Getting to the city center (Hakata/Tenjin) from Fukuoka Airport is very easy. You can take the subway, the bus or the taxi. It will take about thirty minutes from the airport to either Hakata or Tenjin. You can read the detailed post on how to get to the city center from the airport here: FUKUOKA AIRPORT to HAKATA STATION & TENJIN: By Bus, Subway & Taxi

Special thanks to JR Kyushu , Kyushu Tourism Promotion Organization , and Cebu Pacific for making our Kyushu trip possible! Opinions are our own.

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Hi, are the special trains also included in regular JR Pass?

Hi Hazel, you mean the nationwide JR Pass? As far as I know, yes.

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Kumamoto Starts Here

It’s taken me longer than I wanted to create a Kumamoto travel guide, and I apologize for that. I’ve got good reasons for this, however.

Most importantly, it took me a long time to get out of Kumamoto city. With gardens, Kumamon and of course, Kumamoto Castle itself, Kumamoto-shi is a place that charms and comforts you, and makes it difficult to say goodbye.

Whether you plan to stay primarily in town or to get out (mostly likely to Mt. Aso ), I have a feeling you’ll find what I’m about to say helpful.

Where to Stay in Kumamoto

As is the case with most Kumamoto travel guides you find online, most of the hotels I’ll be recommending are in Kumamoto city. Generally speaking, I prefer to stay in city center business hotels, such as Mitsui Garden Hotel and Hotel Wing International . However, Kumamoto does have a limited number of more traditional ryokan properties, including Ryotei Matsuya Honkan Suizenji .

Outside of Kumamoto city, the place you’re likeliest to stay is Mt. Aso. Here it’s less about finding the right hotel (even if Aso Resort Grandvrio Hotel is an attractive option, assuming you want somewhere resort-style) and more about choosing a good vacation rental. The vast majority of places to stay within the Aso caldera are privately owned, whether you book them on Airbnb or via another channel.

Places to Visit in Kumamoto

Kumamoto castle.

Kumamoto Castle is one of my favorite places in Japan, to such a great extent that I never shut up about it. As I mentioned earlier, it’s not one of Japan’s “original” castles, but is nonetheless charming, especially in spring. I also feel very inspired by its reconstruction in the wake of the 2016 earthquake, even though it won’t be fully completed for another decade (at least).

Suizenji Garden

For better or for worse, many a Kumamoto travel guide begin and end at Kumamoto Castle. This is unfortunate for a number of reasons, not least because Suizenji garden is literally just a few tram stops away from the castle. This small garden is one of my favorites in Japan, particularly on occasions when I have time to stop for matcha in its teahouse.

Another underrated place in Kumamoto city is Honmyoji temple, which kills two birds with one stone. First, it’s an objectively awesome Buddhist temple, having originally been opened to the public in the year 1614. Beyond this, it sits on a hill to the west of Kumamoto looking over the city, so it doubles as one of my favorite viewpoints, whether to admire the castle or just the Shinkansen speeding past.

The good news? Unlike some content creators, I’ve decided to make the Aso Geopark a central part of my Kumamoto travel guide. Whether you hike amid its craters and ridges, or visit peripheral attractions in the area, it’s one of the top places to visit in Kyushu. The better news? I’ve written an entirely separate guide to Mt. Aso , which I recommend you read if you’re planning to go.

Takachiho Gorge

Although Takachiho Gorge is technically located in Miyazaki prefecture, it’s actually closer to Kumamoto City than it is to Miyazaki City. Keep in mind that if you want to come here, it’s best to rent a car. While you can get here by bus, the journey is long and multi-sped, and will require you to spend more of your day in transit than simply enjoying yourself.

Is Kumamoto Worth Visiting?

Kumamoto is absolutely worth visiting, even if you don’t feel extremely excited about it yet. For one, getting there is not much of a slog, since it’s right on the Shinkansen line. You could stop for a day—for part of a day—on your way from Fukuoka down to Kagoshima and then, only if you end up loving it, stay for a bit longer and explore the prefecture more.

On the other hand, if you love my Kumamoto travel guide, you can go ahead and book a few days preemptively. If you just want to see the city, I’d suggest spending two nights in one of the hotels I recommended earlier in this guide. If you also want to explore Mt. Aso, meanwhile, split it up. While you can technically see Aso on a long day trip from Kumamoto city, it’s best spend at least one night there.

Other FAQ About Visiting Kumamoto

What is kumamoto known for.

Kumamoto is known for many things, depending on who you ask. For tourists, it’s famous for Kumamoto Castle, which is one of Japan’s most-loved, in spite of not being an “original” specimen. Kumamon , the city’s mascot, is well-known even among people who don’t plan to visit. The city gained infamy, meanwhile, after the tragic earthquake that struck in 2016.

Is Kumamoto a major city?

Kumamoto is one of the largest city’s in Kyushu, in spite of being much smaller than many on Japan’s main Honshu island. As of 2012 (the latest year for which countrywide records are publicly available), Kumamoto was the 19th largest city in Japan, with a population of 730,000.

Is Kumamoto a good place to live?

Kumamoto is a medium-sized Japanese city with a pleasant climate, plenty of attractions and good connectivity to other destinations in Kyushu. It’s a good place to live if you think you’ll be pleased by these aspects of it, and don’t need the cosmopolitan vibe of Tokyo or Osaka .

The Bottom Line

I hope you’ve found my Kumamoto travel guide helpful. Whether you’re coming in spring and want to see Kumamoto Castle framed by sakura billows, in the summer for hiking at Mt. Aso or any other destination at any other time of year, the heart of Kyushu deserves to be at the heart of your next Japan trip. Kumamoto has something to offer to everyone, even if it’s just the opportunity to hug Kumamon (or one of his many impersonators) yourself. Want to make sure your time in Kumamoto is especially unforgettable? Commission a custom Japan itinerary today!

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The capital of Kumamoto Prefecture , Kumamoto (�F�{) is a major city on Kyushu 's west coast with a population of around 750,000. The city is most famous for its castle , which is one of Japan's largest and most complete. The city was hit by strong earthquakes in 2016 .

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3 Days In Kumamoto: See Kumamoto Castle, Aso, And Amakusa

Kumamoto is a prefecture in the Kyushu region of Japan with a variety of sightseeing spots, from lush nature in the Aso area to the historic Christian sites of Amakusa. This article introduces a three-day travel plan around Kumamoto City and the regions of Aso and Amakusa.

Experience Kumamoto's Major Attractions - A 3-Day Travel Itinerary

Kumamoto Prefecture is located in the heart of the Kyushu region . There are many attractions to enjoy here, including the Aso region with its bountiful nature and Mt. Aso . The Amakusa region is famous for its Hidden Christian Sites , certified by UNESCO in 2017.

Since these locations are not close to the city of Kumamoto, we recommend three days to see all that the prefecture has to offer. This article features a travel plan with the first day in Kumamoto, the second day in Aso, and the third spent exploring Amakusa.

As of June 2020, businesses and sightseeing facilities may be closed or have adjusted hours amid the coronavirus pandemic. We advise checking the official websites for additional information.

Day 1: Explore Kumamoto - Suizenji Park, Kumamoto Castle, Kamitori and Shimotori Shopping Arcade

Day one covers Suizenji Park, Kumamoto Castle, and places with delicious local dishes such as Kumamoto ramen.

The flight from Haneda Airport in Tokyo to Aso Kumamoto Airport is approximately an hour and 45 minutes. After landing, take the airport limousine bus to central Kumamoto. If you want to head straight to the city, get off at the Torichosuji bus station near Kamitori and Shimotori, a traditional shopping street. The ride is approximately 40 minutes.

Suizenji Jojuen Garden

Photo by Pixta If you have some time, why not stop by a beautiful Japanese garden? Simply get off at Suizenji Koen-mae bus stop, which is half an hour from the airport.

Suizenji Jojuen Garden (Japanese), or Suizenji Park, is a beautiful Japanese garden with 400 years of history. The pond in the center is surrounded by a stone bridge, pavilion, and lush greenery.

Suizenji Jojuen

Kumamoto Castle

Photo by Pixta After you visit the garden, take the tram and head to Kumamoto Castle : the landmark of the city. You can catch a ride at Suizenji Koen tram station and get off at Kumamotojo-Shiyakusho-mae. It's about a ten-minute ride.

A large portion of the Kumamoto Castle was destroyed in the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake. Since the building is still undergoing repairs, visitors are not allowed inside, unfortunately. However, you can admire the view of its exterior from Ninomaru Park and the surrounding castle grounds.

Lunch at Kamitori and Shimotori Shopping Arcade

Picture courtesy of Kumamoto Prefecture If you fly into Kumamoto in the morning, your arrival would be around lunchtime. About a ten-minute walk from Kumamoto Castle are the shopping arcades Kamitori and Shimotori . You will find plenty of places to eat here.

Two of Kumamoto's most famous ramen restaurants are located in Kamitori: Komurasaki (Japanese) and Sansuitei .

Komurasaki Kamidori Central Store

Landscape Pavilion

Houraku Manju Kumamoto Kamidori

If you head down Shimotori shopping arcade, you will find a host of restaurants serving Italian, French, and international cuisines. At the Chinese restaurant Korantei Shimotori , you can order taipien, a vermicelli soup that is a staple dish of Kumamoto. The fine rice noodles are served in a lightly seasoned broth and topped with lots of vegetables. The restaurant's Shimotori branch reopened on May 21, 2020 after being renovated.

Korantei Shimotori main store

Tsuruya Department Store and KUMAMON Square

After lunch, you can either explore Kamitori and Shimotori shopping arcade or visit Tsuruya Department Store : the only department store in Kumamoto.

Picture from KUMAMON Square, Kumamoto - Meet A Famous Japanese Mascot!

On the first floor of Tsuruya's East Wing is KUMAMON Square : an information center in the hometown of Kumamoto's adorable mascot, Kumamon. You might even get to see the beloved black bear dance before your eyes! You can purchase souvenirs at the gift shop inside.

Kumamon merchandise is also available at the KUMAMON Shop on the building's sixth floor. The items here range from 500 to 3,000 yen.

It will likely be around sunset after you finish sightseeing and shopping. It's now time to grab dinner in the city and head to your accommodation.

Kumamon Square

Day 2: See Aso - Kusasenri Plateau, Nakadake Crater

Photo by Pixta The second day consists of visiting two scenic attractions featured in every Kumamoto travel guide: Kusasenri Plateau and Nakadake Crater.

The Aso region in northwestern Kumamoto is home to the Aso UNESCO Global Geopark. This park is famous for its stunning natural landscape, including Mt. Aso , Nakadake Crater , and the grassland plateau, Kusasenri .

If you are traveling from Kumamoto City, take the Kyushu Odan Bus from either Platform 1 at Kumamoto Station, or Platform 6 at Kumamoto Sakuramachi Bus Terminal. You will get off at Aso Station. The ride is approximately two hours and costs 1,530 yen. After arriving at Aso Station, transfer to the Mt. Aso Crater Line from Platform 8 and offboard at Asosan Nishi Station. The ride from Aso Station takes half an hour and costs 650 yen.

Travel to and around Kumamoto by highway buse and/or overnight bus! Find the lowest prices here

The Majestic Kusasenri Plateau

Photo by Pixta Walk 30 minutes from Asosan Nishi Station to arrive at the seemingly endless grasslands of Kusasenri Plateau. You can also take a taxi from the station, which takes around ten minutes.

You will find a large pond in the center of the plateau, while cows and horses graze in the surrounding grasslands. When night falls, Kusasenri Plateau becomes a popular stargazing site. If you can stay an extra night, we recommend visiting after sunset . This area is also famous for its golden pampas grass in autumn.

Photo by Pixta The restaurant inside the Kusasenri Observatory serves Akaushi beef, a premium breed of cattle raised in the Aso region. Fulfill your appetite with an Akaushi beef rice bowl, or a tender red steak meal plate, before heading off for more exploration.

Kusasenrigahama

The Impressive Nakadake Crater

Photo by Pixta The next location is the summit of Nakadake , which is the site of a massive crater . To get here, you will need to return to Asosan Nishi Station. It only takes ten minutes (750 yen one way) via the Mt. Aso Loop Shuttle. If you choose to walk, it will take about 30 minutes. Depending on the volcanic activity in the area, however, visitors may be restricted from entering certain areas. Make sure to check the official website ahead of time. (As of June 2020, the Mt. Aso Loop Shuttle has suspended its service.)

Aso Nakadake Crater

Nearby Attractions: Aso Cuddly Dominion Zoo, and Kurokawa Onsen

Photo by Pixta It will probably be around sunset by the time you get back to Asosan Nishi Station. If you want to return to central Kumamoto, take the same route you took to getting to the Aso area.

If you have some time, visit the Aso Cuddly Dominion Zoo to interact with bear cubs, cats, and dogs. You can also stay the night at the nearby Kurokawa Onsen , a natual hot springs area.

Aso Cuddly Dominion

Kurokawa Onsen

Day 3: Visit Amakusa - Sakitsu Church, Sakitsu Village

Photo by Pixta The third day is all about visiting the Hidden Christian Sites—a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. It is located in Amakusa, an island off the western coast of Kumamoto (near Nagasaki Prefecture). Take the Amakusa-go Bus from Kumamoto Station and get off at Hondo Bus Center. The ride takes approximately two hours and 20 minutes and costs 2,280 yen.

Please note that public transportation to the remains of the Hidden Christian sites in Sakitsu Village is limited at certain times. When visiting, be sure to take the Amakusa Gurruto Shuyu Bus (sightseeing bus) from Hondo Bus Center.

Sakitsu Church and Oe Church: Uncover Hidden Christian History

Photo by Pixta The World Heritage Site Amakusa Sakitsu Village Course takes visitors around Sakitsu Church with its beautiful gothic architecture, the surrounding Sakitsu Village, and Oe Tenshudo (Oe Church) with its distinguished Romanesque architecture. The sightseeing tour is five hours long. The bus ride costs 1,000 yen, but entrance to each site requires an additional fee.

If you want to participate in the tour, make a reservation from the Kyushu Sanko Tourism website (Japanese) at least two days in advance. In addition to the World Heritage Site tour, you can also go dolphin watching.

Sakitsu Village in Amakusa

Where to Stay in Kumamoto

If you plan on sightseeining mostly in Kumamoto City, we suggest looking for accommodation in the downtown area. You will find a number of hotels, including Toyoko Inn Kumamoto-jyo Toricho Suji , Richmond Hotel Kumamoto Shinshigai , and Dormy Inn Kumamoto Natural Hot Spring .

If you prefer a more luxurious stay, we recommend the historic Kumamoto Hotel Castle or Hotel Nikko Kumamoto .

For those wanting to exclusively visit the Aso and Amakusa regions, or are considering to venture out to neighboring Fukuoka or Oita prefectures, look for a lodging near Kumamoto Station. Some options are Hotel Route Inn Kumamoto Ekimae , Toyoko Inn Kumamoto Ekimae , and ANA Crowne Plaza Kumamoto New Sky .

Kumamoto: Enjoy Spectacular Mountains and Ocean Views

From majestic mountainscapes to ocean views, Kumamoto Prefecture boasts natural landscapes that astonish all who visit. In addition to what we covered in this article, the prefecture has a plethora of places to visit. Since public transportation is limited in certain areas, we recommend renting a car to visit as many attractions on your trip.

Travel to and around Kumamoto by highway bus and/or overnight bus! Find the lowest prices here

Main image by Pixta

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Kumamoto Travel Guide: An In-Depth Review of the City’s Must-See Attractions

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Kumamoto, a charming city in Kyushu, Japan, is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. One of the most recognizable symbols of the city is Kumamon, the adorable black bear mascot with red round cheeks. This lovable bear has captured the hearts of both locals and tourists alike and can be found throughout the city, promoting Kumamoto’s attractions and products.

In 2016, Kumamoto faced a major natural disaster when a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck, causing significant damage and destruction. Additionally, the province’s volcanoes also erupted that same year, further impacting the region. Despite these challenges, Kumamoto has been steadily recovering and rebuilding, showcasing its resilience and spirit. Today, the city’s travel spots remain open and as remarkable as ever, inviting visitors to experience its unique charm and beauty.

Northern Kyushu Island itinerary

Embark on a journey to the northern island of Kyushu, a land of contrasts and diversity, where modern cities and ancient traditions coexist in harmony. On my 8-day trip, I had the opportunity to explore the best that this island has to offer – from the vibrant metropolis of Fukuoka to the historical and picturesque Nagasaki , the idyllic hot spring town of Yufuin , and the charming castle town of Kumamoto . I also ventured to the lesser-known gems of Takachiho and Mount Aso , immersing myself in the island’s natural splendor. Each day was a new adventure, and I urge you to plan your own trip to this incredible destination and follow my journey through my detailed reviews of each city I visited. Click to discover the hidden gems and must-see attractions of Kyushu Island in each city on the itinerary below.

Do I Need to Buy a Pass to Travel to Kyushu?

If you’re planning to travel to the island of Kyushu, specifically to cities outside of Fukuoka, it’s recommended to purchase a JR train pass for cost savings, convenience, and speed. The most recommended pass is the JR Kyushu Rail Pass , which comes in three variations: the All Kyushu Area Pass, the Northern Kyushu Area Pass, and the Southern Kyushu Area Pass. The best pass for you will depend on your travel itinerary.

🚅✨ Based on the review you’re reading here, I only traveled to the northern part of Kyushu Island, specifically to the cities of Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Yufuin, and Kumamoto. For those who are looking for an economical, convenient, and easy way to travel, I recommend purchasing the Northern Kyushu Area Pass . This pass can be used on JR trains between cities, but keep in mind that it cannot be used on the Fukuoka subway or trams in other cities.

I highly recommend purchasing your JR train pass online through the Klook website, which sells almost every travel ticket in the world at a cheaper price compared to other websites. The process of buying, paying, and picking up the pass is easy and convenient. You can purchase the pass and pay using a credit card on the website. Once your purchase is complete, Klook will send an exchange order or booking confirmation to your email, which you can then print out and exchange for a physical pass at the JR Ticket Office. The specific location I used for this exchange was at the JR Hakata Station.

From my personal experience, I can say that buying the JR Northern Kyushu Pass through Klook was incredibly convenient. I purchased it only 2 days before my trip to Japan and was able to easily print the confirmation from my email and exchange it for the physical pass in Japan. It was much simpler than I had expected.

For those with different plans, if you are only planning to visit Southern Kyushu, the Southern Kyushu Area Pass would be the best option. But if your plans include both Northern Kyushu and other areas like Hiroshima or the Kansai region, such as Osaka, I recommend purchasing the Sanyo-San’in-Northern Kyushu Area Pass instead. It will give you more flexibility and allow you to fully explore all the different areas that you are interested in.

⚡️ The Fukuoka review on this page has not used the JR Kyushu Pass, however, it is possible to exchange the Exchange Order for a physical ticket at Hakata Station. The staff there will be able to help you activate the pass on the desired start date and also assist with reserving train tickets with reserved seats in advance if needed.

Kyushu Rail Pass Summary for Visiting Kumamoto

• JR Kyushu Pass (All Area) : This pass allows you to travel on JR lines for sightseeing in various cities in Kyushu such as Hakata (Fukuoka), Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Yufuin, Beppu, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. You can take the Yufuin no Mori sightseeing train to Yufuin and reserve seats in advance via the JR Kyushu website. There are 3, 5, and 7-day plans available, with starting prices at JPY 17,000 (~$130). [Purchase via Klook] [Purchase via KKday]
• JR Northern Kyushu Pass : (I’ve used this pass in this review.) This pass allows you to travel on JR lines for sightseeing in various cities in Northern Kyushu such as Hakata (Fukuoka), Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Yufuin, Beppu, and Oita. You can take the Yufuin no Mori sightseeing train to Yufuin and reserve seats in advance via the JR Kyushu website. There are 3 and 5-day plans available, with starting prices at JPY 10,000 (~$77). [Purchase via Klook] [Purchase via KKday]
• JR Southern Kyushu Pass : This pass allows you to travel on JR lines for sightseeing in Southern Kyushu such as Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. However, it cannot be used on the Yufuin no Mori sightseeing train. It’s available in a 3-day pass, starting price at JPY 8,000 (~$62). [Purchase via Klook] [Purchase via KKday]
• 🎫  Sanyo-San’in-Northern Kyushu Area Pass : This pass is for traveling on JR train lines to prominent cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Wakayama, Himeji, Okayama, Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Nagasaki. You can take Sanyo-Kyushu Shinkansen round trip Osaka-Kobe-Okayama-Hiroshima-Yamaguchi-Hakata(Fukuoka)-Kumamoto, Kansai-Airport Express Haruka from Kansai Airport (KIX) and Yufuin no Mori Sightseeing Train (however, online seat reservation is not possible with this pass). It’s available in a 7-day plan, starting price at JPY 23,000 (~$177).   [Purchase via Klook]   [Purchase via KKday]
• 🎫  Japan Rail Pass – All Area (JR Pass) : This pass allows you to ride JR trains across the entire country, including almost all Shinkansen bullet trains. It also allows you to ride on the Yufuin no Mori sightseeing train, but you cannot reserve seats online with this pass, you must do it at the JR station. This pass is available in a 7-day plan and the price is about JPY 44,810 (~$344).   [Purchase via Klook]   [Purchase via KKday]

Where to stay in Kumamoto

To make the most of your time in this enchanting city, it’s crucial to choose the right area to stay in, depending on your preferences and priorities. In this guide, I’ll be sharing my top three recommendations for the best areas to stay in Kumamoto, along with the reasons why each area is special and well-connected by public transportation. So, let’s dive right in and discover the perfect base for your Kumamoto adventure!

🏨 See recommended accommodation in Kumamoto from Agoda / Trip.com / Expedia / Booking.com

#1 kumamoto station.

If convenience is your top priority, I recommend staying near Kumamoto Station. As a major transportation hub, the station serves local trains, buses, and the Kyushu Shinkansen, making it easy to explore other parts of the region. There are also various shopping centers and dining options in the area, catering to different budgets and tastes. Staying near the station means you’ll always have access to various transportation options, making it easy to get around both within Kumamoto and to other destinations in Kyushu.

Recommended hotels in the Kumamoto Station area include:

• Top-luxury-boutique hotels ($140++ per night): ANA Crowne Plaza Kumamoto New Sky
• Good hotels with affordable prices ($75-140 per night): The Blossom Kumamoto
• Worthwhile budget hotels and hostels (below $75 per night): Hotel the Gate Kumamoto / Toyoko INN Kumamoto Ekimae

#2 Kumamoto City Center

For those who want to be right in the heart of the action, staying in the city center is an excellent choice. This area is close to major attractions like Kumamoto Castle, Sakuranobaba Josaien, and Suizenji Garden. The city center offers plenty of options for dining and shopping, with a wide range of cuisines and stores to choose from. What I love about this area is the easy access to public transportation, with tram stops, bus stops, and nearby train stations like Kumamoto Station and Kami-Kumamoto Station. This makes exploring the city and nearby towns a breeze!

Recommended hotels in the Kumamoto City Center area include:

• Top-luxury-boutique hotels ($140++ per night): Hotel Nikko Kumamoto
• Good hotels with affordable prices ($75-140 per night): REF Kumamoto by VESSEL HOTELS / Dormy Inn Kumamoto Natural Hot Spring
• Worthwhile budget hotels and hostels (below $75 per night): Hotel Wing International Select Kumamoto

Let’s get started traveling in Kumamoto, Kyushu!

Indeed, Kumamoto is the capital city of Kumamoto Prefecture. While there may not be an abundance of activities within the city itself, there’s a nearby town that is quite popular and enjoyable. For nature enthusiasts, Aso is an amazing destination, boasting the world’s largest volcano and offering stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Additionally, Takachiho, a neighboring city in the adjacent prefecture, is also worth a visit due to its picturesque gorge, sacred shrines, and rich mythology. As for Kumamoto city, a laid-back approach without a fixed plan is perfect for a relaxing day. So, join me on this journey!

Day 1: Kumamoto City

On the first day of my Kumamoto trip, I took a leisurely approach with no specific plan in mind. The city has a few notable attractions, so I visited Suizenji Garden and Kumamoto Castle. Aside from these, my activities mainly consisted of exploring, shopping, finding delicious food, and hunting for Kumamon souvenirs.

Suizenji Garden

My journey in Kumamoto began at Suizenji Garden , a spacious Japanese garden built in the 17th century by the Hosokawa family. The garden displayed a golden hue when I visited, but those who come during the summer might witness a lush green landscape instead. Known for its beautiful landscape and miniature representations of the 53 stations of the historic Tokaido Road, the garden offers a tranquil atmosphere that is quite enjoyable. With pleasant weather, ducks swimming, birds flying, and koi fish in the pond, I found strolling around the garden to be quite relaxing.

Admittedly, my appreciation for this type of serene experience might be related to getting older, but I genuinely enjoyed the visit. Please note that there is a 400 yen entrance fee for Suizenji Garden.

Izumi Shrine , located within the Suizenji Garden, is dedicated to the Hosokawa family’s ancestors and is a peaceful spot for paying respect and asking for good fortune. The shrine’s architecture and serene surroundings add to the overall charm of the garden.

In the image below, you can see a tall, artificial mountain designed to resemble Mount Fuji. The garden is also home to an array of charming animals, making it an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Kumamoto Castle

Initially, I didn’t plan on visiting Kumamoto Castle , as I had heard it was closed and undergoing maintenance. However, with the Kumamoto marathon taking place in the area and plenty of free time on my hands, I decided to check it out in case it had reopened. I walked past the crowds of people who had just finished running and headed up to the venue beside the castle.

Kumamoto Castle is one of the most impressive and well-preserved castles in Japan. Originally built in 1607 by the famed daimyo Kato Kiyomasa, the castle has played a significant role in Japan’s history. Known for its unique architectural features, such as the stone walls and the iconic “Uto Turret,” the castle has been a symbol of power and prestige in the region for centuries.

In April 2016, Kumamoto experienced a devastating earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0. The disaster caused significant damage to the city, including the historic Kumamoto Castle. Many of the castle’s structures, including its stone walls and turrets, were severely damaged, with some collapsing entirely. The event highlighted the vulnerability of the castle and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

⚠️  Please note that I visited Kumamoto Castle in April 2018, when the castle was closed for renovation. As of now, you can enter the walkway to see the main castle building up close. In 2020, an elevated walkway within the inner castle grounds opened to the public, and in Spring 2021, the castle’s interior became fully accessible.

Before walking up to the castle, you’ll pass Sakurano-baba Josaien , which has a touch of a Japanese community mall with a variety of shops and restaurants. If you don’t have any particular plans, you can drop by. Here is a good choice too!

When approaching the destination, it’s essential to note that the castle was heavily damaged by the 2016 earthquake. Kumamoto Castle has been under restoration since then. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, some areas of the castle have already been made accessible to visitors, with the Main Tower reopening to the public in October 2021. However, restoration work on other parts of the castle is still ongoing, so it’s crucial to check the latest updates before planning your visit.

The 2016 earthquake in Kumamoto caused significant damage to the historical and architectural heritage of the castle, which is over 500 years old. The restoration process has been extensive, and efforts are being made to preserve and restore this important landmark for future generations to appreciate.

Kamitori + Shimotori Shopping Arcade

In the heart of Kumamoto, the Kamitori + Shimotori Shopping Arcade is a popular attraction for both tourists and locals. This bustling shopping street in the city center is lined with various restaurants, skincare, cosmetics, and clothing stores, reminiscent of an outlet mall. It’s easy to get carried away with spending here! You can also find plenty of Kumamon souvenirs in this area.

Based on my experience, the best prices for Kumamon souvenirs can be found at Kumamoto Station. While the 1st floor has a few stores, I suggest heading up to the 2nd floor, where you’ll find 2-3 stores next to each other offering a treasure trove of items.

As for clothing, the area offers a diverse range of options, including Nike, Adidas, GU, Champion, and many more. If you’re a fan of Muji, you’ll be delighted to find a large store in this area, complete with a Muji Café. A perfect spot to unwind and indulge!

Accommodation in Kumamoto Toyoko INN Kumamoto Ekimae

During my visit to Kumamoto, I chose to stay overnight at Toyoko INN Kumamoto Ekimae . This hotel is part of the Toyoko INN hotel chain, which boasts nearly 300 hotels across Japan. I often rely on this chain as a backup plan when I can’t find comfortable or well-priced accommodation with an excellent location (it’s genuinely true, as most Toyoko INN hotels are conveniently located near train stations).

Toyoko INN Kumamoto Ekimae lived up to the standard quality of this renowned hotel brand. The single rooms feature an orange bedsheet, providing a comfortable sleeping experience. While the room isn’t very spacious, it’s fully equipped with all the necessary amenities. The stay also includes breakfast, and the staff are friendly, giving it a welcoming, family-owned hotel vibe that made my stay quite relaxing. I managed to book a room through Expedia for around 48 USD per night, which was an excellent deal!

Room Rates Starting at $46 USD/Night: Explore and Book Your Stay at Toyoko INN Kumamoto Ekimae through Agoda.com / Booking.com / Trip.com / Expedia.com

อ่านรีวิวเมืองนี้จบแล้ว อ่านรีวิวเมืองอื่นในญี่ปุ่นต่อกันเลย 🤗

ญี่ปุ่นเป็นประเทศไม่กี่ประเทศที่นี่รู้สึกว่า ไปกี่ครั้งก็ไม่น่าเบื่อ ไปแล้วไปอีกได้ตลอด และยังประเทศที่ตัวเองตั้งมิชชั่นว่า อยากจะเก็บให้หมดทั่วประเทศ ฮ่าา เอาเป็นว่า HASHCORNER นี่ก็มีรีวิวญี่ปุ่นให้อ่านและตามรอยเยอะพอสมควร ทั้งหมดนับแล้วเกือบ 50 รีวิวแล้ว เยอะโคตร ใครที่มีแพลนไปเมืองไหนในญี่ปุ่นที่มีชื่อเมืองตามลิสด้านล่าง สามารถคลิกลิงค์อ่านต่อได้เล้ย

ภูมิภาคคันโต (Kanto Region)

1. รีวิว โตเกียว (tokyo) 2. รีวิว โตเกียวดิสนีย์แลนด์ (tokyo disneyland) 3. รีวิว โตเกียวดิสนีย์ซี (tokyo disneysea) 4. รีวิว harry potter: warner bros. studio tour tokyo 5. รีวิว โยโกฮาม่า (yokohama) 6. รีวิว คามาคุระ (kamamura) 7. รีวิว นิกโก้ (nikko) 8. รีวิว ฮาโกเน่ (hakone).

⸺⸺⸺⸺

ภูมิภาคคันไซ (Kansai Region)

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18 Amazing Things to Do in Kumamoto, Japan

Looking for the best things to do in Kumamoto, Japan ? You’re in for a treat. This city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will leave you enchanted.

From the magnificent Kumamoto Castle to the stunning landscapes of Aso-Kuju National Park, there’s no shortage of attractions to visit in Kumamoto.

So, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a food enthusiast, or someone simply seeking a unique cultural immersion, read on to find the best Kumamoto activities you can’t miss.

Explore Kumamoto Castle

Let’s start with one of the top attractions in Kumamoto, Japan: Kumamoto Castle . As one of Japan’s finest castles, Kumamoto Castle is a must-visit.

This expansive fortress, established in the 15th century, boasts majestic towers and fortified gates that make you feel like you’re in a Samurai movie.

Also, don’t miss the elaborate gold leaf-covered rooms in the reconstructed Honmaru Goten Palace, where the castle’s lords once resided.

The admission fee for Kumamoto Castle is 500 yen for adults and 200 yen for children.

It is open from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM and is closed from December 29 to 31.

The castle is easily accessible by public transport – just a 15-minute tram ride from Kumamoto Station. Nearby you can find the Kumamoto City Museum and Sakuranobaba Josaien, perfect for a day of historical exploration.

Sample local cuisines

Now, let’s talk about food! Kumamoto is a paradise for food enthusiasts. Make sure to savor the local delicacies that define this vibrant city.

Start with the mouthwatering Akaushi beef, known for its intense marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Seafood lovers will be thrilled with Shijimi clams from the Ariake Sea, often used to create soulful soups and fresh sushi offerings.

And don’t miss out on Kumamoto ramen, a delicious treat with its flavorful pork bone broth topped with garlic chips and fragrant mayu oil made from garlic. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

And remember, your culinary journey isn’t complete without a glass of shochu, Kumamoto’s beloved rice spirit.

Stroll Sakuranobaba Josaien

This charming district is nestled at the foot of Kumamoto Castle and takes you on a nostalgic journey through the Edo period .

You’ll find reconstructed samurai residences, townhouses, and shops selling local crafts and specialty foods.

Treat yourself to unique dishes like Basashi (horse sashimi) and Ikinari-dango, a sweet potato dumpling.

And if you’re up for it, catch an animated film about Kumamoto’s history at the Wakuwaku-za theatre or participate in traditional performances and workshops.

The district is just a tram ride away from Kumamoto Station, making it easily accessible.

Unwind at Kurokawa Onsen

For a truly rejuvenating experience, head to Kurokawa Onsen, a famous hot spring town located in the northern part of Kumamoto Prefecture.

Here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush forests and rivers as you experience the authentic Japanese hot spring culture.

Grab an onsen-hopping pass for a holistic experience, and consider staying in a traditional ryokan in Kurokawa for a taste of Japanese hospitality.

Oh, and if you have time, a visit to the nearby Aso Volcano adds an adventurous element to your onsen trip. It’s truly a nature lover’s paradise!

Getting there : Kurokawa is a two-hour drive from Kumamoto City, with bus services available from Kumamoto Station.

Hike Kikuchi Gorge

If you’re seeking natural beauty, a hike through Kikuchi Gorge is a fascinating activity to do in Kumamoto.

Located in the northern part of Kumamoto Prefecture, this charming paradise offers crystal-clear water flowing from the Aso Mountains.

With well-maintained trails suitable for all fitness levels, you can enjoy the stunning views of cascading waterfalls, vibrant flora, and the surrounding natural splendor.

Take advantage of the picnic spots for a leisurely break, and keep an eye out for the local wildlife

Kikuchi Gorge is open year-round, and entrance is free.

It’s about a 90-minute drive from Kumamoto City, so renting a car is the best option to reach this hidden gem.

And while you’re in the area, consider visiting Kikuchi City, known for its hot springs, for a perfect day trip.

See Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine

If you’re looking for a serene and spiritual experience, then add Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine to your Kumamoto bucket list.

Nestled in the lush mountain forests of southern Kumamoto Prefecture, this ancient shrine holds serene beauty and spiritual energy.

As you climb the steep stone steps, you’ll discover smaller shrines and stone monuments, each steeped in serene beauty and spiritual energy.

At the shrine, you can partake in the Shinto practices such as ringing the sacred bell, offering a coin, and saying a silent prayer.

And if you’re lucky enough to visit during cherry blossom season or autumn, you’ll be treated to picturesque views that will leave you in awe.

Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine is accessible around the clock, and admission is free. From Kumamoto, you can take a train to Aso Station, then a bus to the shrine.

While in the area, consider visiting the nearby Takamori Dengaku, a traditional dance performance site.

Enjoy Museum time

To unravel Kumamoto’s cultural tapestry, don’t miss out on its prominent museums.

The Contemporary Art Museum Kumamoto (CAMK) showcases exhibitions by renowned artists, both local and international.

The Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art, on the other hand, presents a well-curated collection of Japanese and Western art, with a special focus on the Hosokawa clan, a powerful samurai family that ruled Kumamoto during the Edo period.

And history enthusiasts will find the Kumamoto City Museum fascinating, offering insights into the region’s past from ancient times to the present day.

Stroll Suizenji Garden

For a tranquil escape within Kumamoto City, take a stroll through Suizenji Garden.

This picturesque Japanese landscape garden was built in the 17th century and offers a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

As you wander through its pathways, miniature landscapes, and vibrant flora, you’ll encounter a scaled-down version of the famous Tokaido trade route, complete with a miniature Mount Fuji at its center.

Suizenji Garden also houses the Izumi Shrine, where you can partake in traditional Japanese customs.

The garden cafe is a delightful spot to take a break and enjoy matcha tea with a sweet Japanese confectionary, overlooking the serene pond and lush greenery.

Suizenji Garden opens from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and the entrance fee is 400 yen for adults.

It’s a mere 20-minute tram ride from Kumamoto Station to the Suizenji Park stop.

Cruise Lake Ezu

If you’re up for a little adventure, take a short drive from Kumamoto Station to Lake Ezu.

Enjoy a boat tour over the calm waters, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding greenery, city skylines, and park landscapes.

Birdwatchers will be delighted by the diverse bird species that call this lake home.

And if you’re feeling more active, you can rent paddle boats, go fishing, or simply relax with a picnic by the lake. It’s a great way to spend a leisurely day in Kumamoto.

Lake Ezu is open throughout the year, and boat tours can be taken from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and prices start from around 700 yen for 30 minutes.

Explore Aso-Kuju National Park Landscapes

Next, let’s explore the captivating landscapes of Aso-Kuju National Park.

Located about an hour’s drive from Kumamoto City, this national park is a nature lover’s dream. The highlight is undoubtedly Mt. Aso, the largest caldera in the world.

The park’s unique topography is a result of multiple volcanic eruptions over thousands of years, shaping it into an intriguing destination for nature lovers.

Hiking through the picturesque forests and idyllic farmlands will leave you in awe of the park’s unique topography shaped by volcanic eruptions.

And if you’re in need of relaxation, indulge in the park’s natural hot springs or onsen.

Be sure to visit the Kusasenri Prairie for panoramic views of the Aso Caldera. And take the Aso Panorama Line, a scenic 25-kilometer driving route offering breathtaking views of the caldera and its grasslands.

Don’t miss the visit to the Aso Volcano Museum for an educational insight into the region’s unique geology and the power of Mother Nature.

The park is open year-round, but the best times to visit are from April to November.

The visitor centers typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

There’s no entrance fee to the park, but some attractions, like the Aso Volcano Museum and certain hot springs, have separate admission fees.

The easiest way to reach the park is by car or by taking a bus from Kumamoto Station to Aso Station. You should set aside a whole day to explore this vast natural paradise.

Journey through time at Yamaga

If you’re interested in samurai, head to Yamaga, a small town located in the north of Kumamoto Prefecture.

It’s best known for its beautifully preserved traditional samurai residences, offering visitors a step back in time to the Edo period (1603–1868), when samurai ruled Japan.

In Yamaga, you can take a leisurely stroll through the narrow, winding streets lined with traditional wooden houses.

Many of these samurai residences are open to the public and are remarkably well-preserved, giving you a genuine sense of how the samurai lived during the Edo period.

While there, don’t miss the chance to learn how to craft traditional Yamaga Toro lanterns, made entirely from paper.

There’s no entry fee to explore the town of Yamaga, but some samurai residences may charge a small admission fee. Yamaga is about an hour’s drive from Kumamoto city.

Public transportation is also available – you can take a bus from Kumamoto Station to Yamaga, which takes around 90 minutes.

For history buffs, a visit to Yamaga offers an unforgettable journey into Japan’s samurai era.

Say hello to animals at Kumamoto Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Animal lovers, there’s something for you, too – the Kumamoto Zoo and Botanical Gardens! It’s just a tram ride away from the city center.

This family-friendly attraction in Kumamoto is spread over 49 acres, with plenty of animals to see, from lions and elephants to kangaroos and giraffes.

Little ones will enjoy the interactive exhibits and the ‘Kodomo no Kuni’ section, which offers chances to feed and pet friendly animals.

The Kumamoto Zoo and Botanical Gardens are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM) and closed on Mondays (or Tuesdays if Monday is a national holiday).

Admission fees are 500 yen for adults, 200 yen for high school students, and 100 yen for children.

Explore Kumamoto by tram

Here’s another fun and unique thing to do in Kumamoto – hop on the Kumamoto City Tram, or “Shiden,” as it’s known in Japanese.

In Kumamoto, the trams aren’t just about getting from point A to B. This tram network is like a moving timeline, with a mix of different styles of tram cars chugging along the city streets.

You can get around the city on a retro-style tram car straight out of the 1950s, with all its vintage charm.

Or find the sleek, brand-new trams designed with barrier-free low floors to make them accessible to all.

What’s even better is the low flat rate for a ride, so you can sit back, relax, and take in the sights without burning a hole in your pocket.

And if you want unlimited travel, grab a 1-Day Tram Pass! It’s the perfect way to make the most of your Kumamoto adventure.

Go shopping at Kamitori and Shimotori Shopping Arcades

Craving for a shopping spree? The Kamitori and Shimotori Shopping Arcades in the heart of Kumamoto city will not disappoint.

These bustling arcades have been around since the 1970s, offering several shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Kamitori, the northern street, is home to high-end fashion boutiques and cosmetic shops, while Shimotori, the southern street, is where you’ll find trendy clothing stores and mouth-watering eateries.

Trust me, you can spend an entire day here and never run out of things to explore.

And the best part? Both arcades are just a 10-minute walk from Kumamoto Station and conveniently close to other attractions like Kumamoto Castle.

Oh, and don’t forget to check out the seasonal decorations and special events during the festive seasons. It adds an extra touch of magic to your shopping experience!

Admire Craftsmanship at Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Center

The Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Center is another must-visit attraction in Kumamoto.

Here, you can admire traditional crafts like Higo Zogan (gold inlay on iron), ceramics, bamboo crafts, and much more.

Even better, you can participate in hands-on workshops and learn from skilled artisans.

And if you’re looking for a unique souvenir, the center’s gift shop is a treasure trove of local crafts.

Don’t worry about admission fees – entry to the Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Center is completely free. You can easily reach it via public transportation, just a 10-minute walk from the Karashima Koen tram stop.

Discover the Arched Elegance of Tsujun Bridge

If you’re a fan of architecture, you’ll be mesmerized by the Tsujun Bridge.

This arched stone bridge from the Edo period is a testament to the engineering genius of the era.

Time your visit during the annual Water Discharge Festival for an unforgettable experience.

You can savor a delicious bowl of locally made soba, crafted from buckwheat grown in the surrounding hills, while taking in the breathtaking view.

Tsujun Bridge is open year-round, and the best way to reach it is by car, which takes roughly 50 minutes from Kumamoto City.

If you prefer public transportation, take a bus from Kumamoto Station to Yamato Town, and then hop in a taxi to the bridge.

See Hydrangeas at Sumiyoshi Nature Park

Visiting the Sumiyoshi Nature Park during hydrangea season is truly one of the top things to do in Kumamoto.

Imagine being surrounded by a sea of vibrant colors – we’re talking about over 2,000 hydrangeas, all in full bloom.

If you’re planning to visit in June, well, lucky you! That’s when these gorgeous flowers put on a show like no other, bursting into full bloom and transforming the park into a natural rainbow.

But wait, there’s more. Nestled in the park, at the top of a flight of stairs, is the historic Sumiyoshi Shrine. With a history spanning 900 years, the shrine adds a touch of spiritual tranquility to the vivid setting.

Capture the Cityscape from Kumamoto City Hall

If you’re looking for a view of Kumamoto, head to Kumamoto City Hall.

It’s not just a government building; it also features an observatory deck on the 14th floor.

From there, you can soak in a sweeping view of the cityscape, including iconic landmarks like Kumamoto Castle and Mount Aso.

Trust me, the night view is something special, with the city lights twinkling like stars.

You can also check out the gallery that showcases local artists.

Kumamoto City Hall Observatory is open from 8:30 am to 10:00 pm daily, and admission is free.

It’s conveniently located in the city center, within walking distance from the Karashimacho Tram Stop.

What is the best time to visit Kumamoto?

Kumamoto is a year-round destination with its own charms in every season. If you want to see cherry blossoms, spring (March to May) is the perfect time, and autumn (September to November) offers vibrant foliage. Winter (December to February) is a great time to enjoy hot springs and experience seasonal festivals. Ultimately, the best time to visit Kumamoto depends on your preferences and what you’d like to experience during your trip.

Can I visit Kumamoto as a day trip from other cities in Japan?

Yes, Kumamoto can be visited as a day trip from nearby cities like Fukuoka. Hop on the Shinkansen (bullet train), and in no time, you’ll find yourself in Kumamoto, ready to explore its highlights. It’s a great option if you’re short on time but still want to experience the beauty and charm of Kumamoto.

Is Kumamoto suitable for a family trip with kids?

Absolutely! Kumamoto offers a plethora of family-friendly attractions that will keep both kids and adults entertained. The Kumamoto Zoo and Botanical Gardens are a perfect choice, offering a chance to see various animals up close and explore beautiful gardens. Your little ones will love the interactive exhibits and the opportunity to feed and pet animals. Additionally, Yamaga town, with its samurai residences, provides an educational experience for kids to learn about Japanese history.

Ha is an avid traveler and writer with a background in marketing & hospitality. She's lived in a few countries and traveled to more than 30. When she's not traveling or writing, Ha loves trying new recipes.

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Explore Kumamoto

sightseeing information, travel advice & highly rated tours

Explore kumamoto tours.

• All Explore Kumamoto tours are in English.
• The maximum group size is 6 people.
• There is always a choice of places for lunch and we are happy to advise and cater to any dietary needs.
• Private tours and customised experiences can be arranged. (according to availability)
• Family discounts are available, contact me with the ages of your children to get a quote.
• There's no set tour schedule so you can request the tour you want on the day you want. (according to availability)
• To see more detailed information about each tour, click on Find out more...

A selection of great day trips starting from Kumamoto

Deep dive tours - the top sights plus some local secrets.

Around Aso Tour

Volcanos & more! A great day out exploring the Mt Aso region

• From 13,000 pp
• Find out more

Takachiho Gorge Tour

Day trip to Japan's most beautiful gorge & birthplace of legend

Kurokawa Onsen Tour

A charming hot spring village, a stunning waterfall & a steamy surprise

Double Destination Tours - the best of 2 locations in just a day

Takachiho Gorge & Mt. Aso Tour

Two of Kyushu's top sights in just one day

Kurokawa Onsen & Mount Aso Tour

Hot springs & cool volcanoes

Kikuchi Gorge & Kurokawa Onsen

Forest bathing & relaxation

Kikuchi Gorge & Mt Aso Tour

Volcanic scenery & beautiful nature

Cultural Experiences

Seasonal tours, speciality tours.

Samurai Swords Tour

A truly unforgettable experience!

• From 10,000 pp

Kuju Flower Park Tour

Go off the beaten track (April - Nov)

One Piece Statues Tour

Come and see the Straw Hat Crew!

• From 16,000 pp

3 great reasons to take a tour....

1. Traveling with a fluent  English speaking gui de  with over 20 years experience  of life in Japan will help  put the sights you see into a much richer context and develop a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.

2. My tours are  small group tours  with a maximum of 6 . M y role as a guide is not only to inform but just as importantly to  ensure you have a fun & memorable day.

3. Taking a guided tour to the destination of your choice means you get to sit back, relax and enjoy your trip . There’s no stress of having to navigate unknown roads, Japanese road signs, or kanji laden menus. 

Tour Availability

Take a look at the Tour Availability Calendar to see what dates are available and what tours are already running. Then just contact me if there are places available on a tour you want to join. 

If the date is blank it is available for any tour of your choice. 

I can only run 3 or 4 tours a week and I usually take bookings from 6 months in advance.

If there is no availability for your dates I may be able to put you in touch with a local freelance English speaking guide. (The itinerary and pricing they offer will vary though.)

Contact me now

Explore kumamoto tours are proud to have been awarded a trip advisor certificate of excellence for 2017, 2018 and 2019 and the new travelers’ choice award in 2020 .

2-Day Kumamoto Itinerary

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• Kumamoto in 2 days
• 1-Day Kumamoto Itinerary
• 3-Day Kumamoto Itinerary
• 4-Day Kumamoto Itinerary
• 5-Day Kumamoto Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: north side of town, kumamoto castle.

Katō Shrine

Kumamotojoinari Shrine

Kumamoto hotel castle, tsuruya department store, cocosa shimotori, sakura no baba josaien, sushi zanmai, where to eat, umazakura shimotori, keika ramen.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Suizenji Jojuen Garden

Suizenji park, monkey d. luffy statue, kengun shrine, kumamoto city zoological and botanical gardens, kumamon square, ajisen ramen (flagship), japanese restaurant benkei, akagumi ramen.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Top searches in Kumamoto

Popular road trips from kumamoto, what's the weather like in kumamoto.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Kumamoto for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Kumamoto in January
• Weather in Kumamoto in February
• Weather in Kumamoto in March
• Weather in Kumamoto in April
• Weather in Kumamoto in May
• Weather in Kumamoto in June
• Weather in Kumamoto in July
• Weather in Kumamoto in August
• Weather in Kumamoto in September
• Weather in Kumamoto in October
• Weather in Kumamoto in November
• Weather in Kumamoto in December

All road trips from Kumamoto

• Kumamoto to Kyoto drive
• Kumamoto to Tokyo drive
• Kumamoto to Seoul drive
• Kumamoto to Osaka drive
• Kumamoto to Fukuoka drive
• Kumamoto to Nagasaki drive
• Kumamoto to Hiroshima drive
• Kumamoto to Busan drive
• Kumamoto to Beijing drive
• Kumamoto to Kagoshima drive
• Kumamoto to Kitakyushu drive
• Kumamoto to Nagoya drive
• Kumamoto to Beppu drive
• Kumamoto to Kanazawa drive
• Kumamoto to Sasebo drive
• Kumamoto to Miyazaki drive
• Kumamoto to Hakone-machi drive
• Kumamoto to Sapporo drive
• Kumamoto to Jeju drive
• Kumamoto to Gyeongju drive
• Kumamoto to Matsuyama drive
• Kumamoto to Himeji drive
• Kumamoto to Kamakura drive
• Kumamoto to Okayama drive
• Kumamoto to Hatsukaichi drive
• Kumamoto to Matsue drive
• Kumamoto to Nikko drive
• Kumamoto to Kochi drive
• Kumamoto to Ibusuki drive
• Kumamoto to Takamatsu drive

Explore nearby places

• Kashima-machi
• Mashiki-machi
• Kikuyo-machi
• Mifune-machi
• Gyokuto-machi
• Nishihara-mura
• Misato-machi
• Nagomi-machi
• Nagasu-machi
• Minamiaso-mura
• Nankan-machi
• Takamori-machi
• Kamiamakusa
• Minamishimabara

All related maps of Kumamoto

• Map of Kumamoto
• Map of Kashima-machi
• Map of Mashiki-machi
• Map of Koshi
• Map of Kikuyo-machi
• Map of Mifune-machi
• Map of Gyokuto-machi
• Map of Ozu-machi
• Map of Kosa-machi
• Map of Tamana
• Map of Nishihara-mura
• Map of Kikuchi
• Map of Yamaga
• Map of Misato-machi
• Map of Hikawa-cho
• Map of Nagomi-machi
• Map of Nagasu-machi
• Map of Yamato-cho
• Map of Minamiaso-mura
• Map of Arao
• Map of Nankan-machi
• Map of Shimabara
• Map of Yatsushiro
• Map of Omuta
• Map of Takamori-machi
• Map of Kamiamakusa
• Map of Minamishimabara
• Map of Miyama

Kumamoto throughout the year

• Kumamoto in January
• Kumamoto in February
• Kumamoto in March
• Kumamoto in April
• Kumamoto in May
• Kumamoto in June
• Kumamoto in July
• Kumamoto in August
• Kumamoto in September
• Kumamoto in October
• Kumamoto in November
• Kumamoto in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Kumamoto?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 2-Day Aso Itinerary
• 2-Day Kamiamakusa Itinerary
• 2-Day Minamiaso-mura Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

THE BEST Day Trips from Kumamoto

Day trips from kumamoto.

• Kumamoto to Minamiaso-mura
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Kumamoto Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide

2. Kumamoto Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide

3. Day Trip Charter Bus Tour to Great nature Mt.Aso from Fukuoka

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Private Fukuoka Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems 100% Personalised

1-Day Hakata Walking Tour

Taste Local Life: Nagasaki's Historical Street Walking Tour

Fukuoka One Day Tour with a Local: 100% Personalized & Private

One-Day Customized Minami-Aso & Takachiho Tour

Huis Ten Bosch Full Day Bus Tour From Hakata

Fukuoka Walking and Public Transport Tour

Customized Beppu Hell Tour in Oita

1 Day Customized Fukuoka Anime Otaku Tour

Half Day Customized Tour in Fukuoka

Half Day Customized Japanese Culture Experience Tour in Fukuoka

Full Day Private Shore Tour in Fukuoka from Fukuoka Cruise Port

Fukuoka: Private Must See Experience With A Host

• Kagoshima Kumamoto Local Tourguide
• Kagoshima Kumamoto Local Tour Guide
• Japan Awaits
• UCHICO tourism JAPAN Co., Ltd.

Tourist in Japan

Travel Guide and Blog about Japan

Kumamoto 2-day itinerary

With a population of about 738’000, Kumamoto (熊本) is the main city in Kumamoto Prefecture , and the third largest in Kyushu , only surpassed by the cities of Fukuoka and Kitakyushu. Kumamoto’s most famous attraction is it’s castle which, until the tragic earthquake of 2016, was the most complete and original of the ancient castles in Japan. The city of Kumamoto is also known across the world for it’s charming mascot Kumamon, and for the nearby active volcano, Aso.

Hotels Kumamoto Tours & Experiences Kyushu JR Train Pass

Kumamoto is an amazing city to visit. While Kumamoto Castle is the main attraction here, despite the current construction work going on, there is a lot more to see and do in Kumamoto. With this itinerary, you will visit the beautiful Suizen-ji Garden, see a number of historic locations in the city, go to a free observation deck with stunning views of Kumamoto castle, explore Kumamoto Art Museum and roam around the bustling city centre, looking for Kumamon (city mascot) souvenirs to take home. On the second day you will make a day trip to the amazing Mt. Aso – the largest active volcano in Japan! At the bottom of the article you will find suggestions for hotels , tours , experiences and help with transport etc.

If you want to do more, then Kumamoto has several amazing day trip possibilities, like the active Aso volcano , Kurokawa onsen town and several beautiful hikes.

Map of 2-day itinerary

2-day itinerary Kumamoto (travel guide)

Day 1 – kumamoto city, day 2 – mt aso daytrip.

Mount Aso is an active volcano. Sometimes the risk is a little higher than normal, so the authorities close of part of the area for tourists. Check the current restriction information of the area before going, so you won’t be disappointed. Alternative, you can book a guided tour around the crater. The tour has great views, and doesn’t enter the area which usually get’s closed off. More information can be found int he “details section” below.

Itinerary Details

Day 1 details.

Day 2 details

Planning your stay in Kumamoto

Hotels and accommodation, tours, tickets and experiences.

Kumamoto city and prefecture is full of amazing experiences, especially related nature and history. Booking a couple of experiences or tours could enhance your experience further and let you dive deeper into Kumamoto. Below is a selection of tours and experiences which you may find interesting.

• Day Trip: Around Mt. Aso (active volcano)
• Day Trip: Kurokawa Onsen and Mt. Aso
• Day Trip: Takachiho Gorge
• 7-day Cycle Tour: Land of Volcanoes
• Horseback Riding: Ride at El Patio Ranch in Aso
• Calligraphy Class: Learn Calligraphy over a cup of green tea
• Bar visit: go drinking with a friendly Kumamoto Local
• Scenic Restaurant Train: Tickets for the Orange Restaurant Train
• Fukuoka side trip: 1-day itinerary , 2-day itinerary or 3-day itinerary .
• Strawberry picking: a self guided half-day trip from Kumamoto.
• Sakurajima side trip: 1-day self guided itinerary for Sakurajima (volcano)

Internet on the go

Having an internet connection can help you a great deal when navigating the streets of a new city. Booking  Pocket Wi-Fi  or getting a Japanese  SIM-card  for your phone can be a great way to help yourself out of a tricky situation or help you get the most out of your day.

Book portable WiFi

Transport in Kumamoto

Kumamoto has a charming tram system, consisting of two lines, the A-line and the B-line. The trams are highly useful for moving around between the city’s attractions. A ride has a fixed cost of ¥170, but a day pass can be purchased from the tram driver at a cost of ¥500. A combined day pass for tram and busses, the so called ” Wakuwaku 1day pass “, can be purchased for between ¥700-2000 depending on the coverage area. Purchase the Wakuwaku pass from the driver or at the tourist information at Kumamoto Station.

Getting to Kumamoto

Kumamoto is located on the Kyushu Shinkansen Line, the high-speed rail line on which the bullet trains run through Kyushu. Therefore Kumamoto can easily and quickly be reached from most major cities in Japan. From Fukuoka it takes 30-40 minutes ( tickets ), from Hiroshima 1 hour 50 minutes ( tickets ), from Osaka 3 hours and from Tokyo in just under 6 hours.

Fukuoka – Kumamoto Ticket    Hiroshima – Kumamoto Ticket   Kyushu JR Train Pass   Japan Rail Pass

Kumamoto Airport (KMJ) is located a 1 hour bus ride away from Kumamoto Station. The airport is connected to Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Naha and Amakusa. Flights can be affordable compared to the train if you travel long distances, say from Tokyo or Osaka.

Book flights to Kumamoto

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Travel 2 Days in Kumamoto: Best Vacation Spots in Kumamoto

by Trip.com

December 15, 2022

• Kumamoto 2-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights to Kumamoto

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Day 1 | Morning

Kumamoto castle.

Opening Hours: Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 500 JPY

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: 1-1 Honmaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 860-0002

With a history of more than 400 years, Kumamoto Castle is one of the three famous castles in Japan. Covering an area of 5.3km, there are many buildings that are designated as key cultural relics by the state. The earthquake in 2016 was severely damaged, and the restoration project is making every effort to restore the majestic and heroic appearance before the earthquake. Visiting the restoration project of the ancient city is also a rare experience. Please come and visit.

Reviews from Real Guests:

도시맘: The trip to Kumamoto is the end of the trip to Kumamoto Castle, Suizenjikoen, Shimotoori and Kamitoori. I recommend it because the place where you can take a picture of the tianshu각 in Kyushu is Kokura Castle and Kumamoto Castle. Before going up to the castle, there is a shopping street in Sakura no Baba survey and it is good for walking courses.

wchisatow: I think it's like it's been rebuilt, so I think it's a great place to see it again.

Day 1 | Afternoon

Now we come to another great highlight in the city: Suizenji Jojuen Garden.

Suizenji Jojuen Garden

Opening Hours: Open from 8:30am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 400 JPY

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-3 Hours

Location: Kumamoto-ken, Kumamoto-shi, Chūō-ku, Suizenji Kōen, 8−1

Kumamoto Suizenji Chengyu Garden was built in the 17th century, covering an area of 70,000 square meters. It was created by the lord Hosokawa Takatori when he called "Kumamoto" "Higo" at that time. It was originally only set up as a private garden "Kokufu Imperial Tea House", and after the careful maintenance and planning and expansion of Hosokawa Tsunaru, it has the scale it is today. Kumamoto Suizenji Chengquyuan is named Chengquyuan from Tao Yuanming's poem "Returning and Returning". Walking in Kumamoto Suizenji Chengqu Garden, you can see green trees and flowers, and feel the relaxed mood. The beautiful artificial landscape sets off Suizenji very neatly and beautifully. The pool in the garden is gushing out. Flowing water from the Aso Mountains. In addition, there are ancient and modern teaching rooms, small bridges, ponds, tall torii gates, etc., making Suizenji a beautiful and interesting garden, like a garden that gathers interest; there are sweet and clear in Izumi Shrine. The spring water is called "Water of Longevity", and it is also a scene in Suizenji Temple. Because of its elegant environment and pleasant scenery, it attracts many people to come to watch it. Therefore, Kumamoto Suizenji Chengqu Garden is one of the famous beautiful scenic spots in Japan.

도시맘: It's a baby Japanese garden, but it's pretty, but it's really smaller than I thought.

Day 1 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Suizenji Jojuen Garden? Ryotei Matsuya Honkan Suizenji is one of your top choices.

Ryotei Matsuya Honkan Suizenji

Ryotei Matsuya Honkan Suizenji offers both Japanese and Western-style accommodations with a flat-screen TV and free wired internet access. Guests can request for relaxing massages and bathe in the public baths. JR Suizenji Train Station is a 15-minute walk away. The air-conditioned rooms include a safety deposit box, a fridge and an electric kettle with green tea bags. Rooms come with a private toilet, a shower and a bathrobe for all guests. Some rooms have a bathtub and tatami (woven-straw) area. Dry cleaning services and a safety deposit box are available at the 24-hour front desk. Drink vending machines are on-site and guests can request for room services. A traditional multi-course meal is served for dinner and a Japanese set-menu for breakfast. All meals are served at the dining room on the 3rd floor. Suizenji Ryotei Honkan Matsuya is a 5-minute walk from Suizenji Park and a 15-minute drive from Kumamoto Castle. JR Kumamoto Train Station is a 30-minute train ride away.

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Day 2 | Morning

Sakuranobaba josaien.

Opening Hours: Open on Mon-Fri,9:00am-7:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,9:00am-8:00pm

Ticket Price: 300 JPY

Recommended Length of Stay: 3-3 Hours

Location: 1-11 Ninomaru, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-0008, Kumamoto Prefecture

Sakura no Horse Farm·City Saiin is an area below Kumamoto Castle. It mainly focuses on folk experiences and Kumamoto food and souvenirs. "Wakuwakuza" mainly provides historical and cultural experience services. The first floor is an exhibition hall of ancient and modern history. Through live and digital reproduction, visitors can return to the era of Kiyomasa Kato, the founder of Kumamoto Castle. The second floor is the performance hall, where historical dramas are regularly performed. "Sakura Koji" reproduces the street scene of the Edo period, and brings together 23 local dishes selected in Kumamoto Prefecture. Visitors can enjoy gourmet food in this nostalgic district, and there are many souvenir shops that can be brought back as souvenirs. hand letter.

Day 2 | Afternoon

Now we come to another great highlight in the city: Minami Aso Railway.

Minami Aso Railway

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: 180 JPY

Location: Takamori Station, Aso-gun

Minamiaso Railway (みなみあそてつどう), a railway company established by the local government along the Takamori Line of the Kumamoto Prefecture Former National Railway Designated Local Railway Line. Headquarters location: Takamori 1537-2, Takamori Town, Aso County, Kumamoto Prefecture. There is the longest station name in Japan on the Takamori line, called "Minami Aso Shui no Sheng ま れ る ri Shirasu Kogen Station" Transportation: From Kyushu Expressway Kumamoto IC along National Road 57 No. 325 towards Aso, National Highway 325 towards Takamori to Minami Aso Village.

• Kumamoto 2-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights from Kumamoto

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.

Table of Content

• Day 1: Kumamoto Castle, Suizenji Jojuen Garden
• Day 2: Sakuranobaba Josaien, Minami Aso Railway

Find What to Do in Kumamoto in 2 Days Tour

[teppanyaki kaiseki rindou] enjoy kumamoto's famous kuroge wagyu brand "waio" and choose one of five teppanyaki set meal coupons.

• Enjoy the Kumamoto Premium Black Wagyu Brand "Waoh" Course Book a wagyu set meal for a special anniversary to add wonderful memories of your trip to Japan It's like a Japanese Wagyu beef sizzling flame show in front of you, satisfying the taste and taste.

Rental cycle (e-bike)

Rural forestry tour in aso minamioguni, learn the higo ko-ryu of naginata style of fighting samurai, 【nadaman sokyu】 omakase　kaiseki.

• Chef's luxury set menu with carefully selected ingredients The interior of the restaurant is not like a Japanese restaurant, so you can feel the freshness.

Luxury Kaiseki Lunch With Arita Ware and Gen-emon Kiln Tour

<h3>besides kumamoto itinerary 2 days, people also search for ...</h3>.

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