Films Set in Kumamoto

Apr 30, 2024 By Justin Hanus

Lights! Camera! Action! Kumamoto is not the most well-known of Japanese prefectures but it has some fantastic settings for movies such as Mount Aso and Kumamoto Castle. These and others have attracted film directors over the years, either to tell stories about the city and surrounding areas or simply to...[ Click to read more ]

Best Schools in Kumamoto

Apr 26, 2024 By Justin Hanus

With a smaller expat population than some Japanese prefectures, Kumamoto doesn’t have the same depth of international schools that you might find in Tokyo or Osaka. However, you will find a diverse range of educational establishments providing teaching from preschool to college age. Here is a pick of top schools...[ Click to read more ]

New Attractions on Kyushu Island

By Justin Hanus

Across Kyushu, several new attractions have opened in the past few years. Whether you’re visiting Kumamoto, Kitakyushu, or Fukuoka, there’s plenty to see and do. 1. Kumamoto Castle Reconstruction The 2016 earthquakes severely damaged Kumamoto Castle. Although the reconstruction will likely continue until 2030, visitors are now at least able...[ Click to read more ]

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Art Classes in Kumamoto

Mar 26, 2024 By Justin Hanus

Whether you want to try your hand at some traditional handicrafts , ceramic painting or fancy learning the art of Japanese calligraphy, there is a variety of arts and crafts classes and workshops across Kumamoto prefecture. You won’t need any level of expertise, just a willingness to give it a...[ Click to read more ]

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Disability Venues & Activities in Kumamoto

Mar 25, 2024 By Justin Hanus

Disability access in Japan has improved greatly in recent times, whether that be making buildings more disability-friendly or providing opportunities for those with disabilities to engage with activities. However, there is still some way to go and many improvements to make in all parts of Japan to ensure that people...[ Click to read more ]

The Most Characteristic Souvenirs of Kumamoto

By Justin Hanus

Every region you visit in Japan will have something unique about it. Often, these qualities are reflected in the souvenirs. To remember your time in Kumamoto, there are a few souvenirs in particular to pick up. 1. Ikinari Dango A treat you’ll only find in Kumamoto is ikinari dango. These...[ Click to read more ]

Dance Classes in Kumamoto

Feb 28, 2024 By Justin Hanus

Whether you want to shake your body to the beat or learn something a bit more structured, you can find a wealth of dance classes to suit all needs in Kumamoto. Here is just a small selection of what’s happening in the prefecture. Ballroom Dancing Having once been quite an...[ Click to read more ]

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Where to Find Halal Food in Kumamoto

By Justin Hanus

One of the top destinations in Japan for Muslims is Kumamoto, due to the large number of Muslims who are already living in the city. In addition to a mosque and a prayer room for Muslims at the Kumamoto City International Center, there are plenty of options for halal food....[ Click to read more ]

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Best Places to Grab a Sandwich in Kumamoto

Jan 30, 2024 By Justin Hanus

Whether you’re on the go and need to grab a quick lunch or you just enjoy a good sandwich, you’ll be pleased to hear that you have many options in Kumamoto. The top places use local ingredients, including freshly-baked bread. Plus, many sandwich bars offer delivery, meaning it’s easy to...[ Click to read more ]

Skate Parks in Kumamoto

By Justin Hanus

Skateboarding has increased in popularity across Japan since the Tokyo Olympics a few years ago, with many purpose-built indoor and outdoor parks appearing in recent times. Kumamoto has a pretty good skateboarding community that predates the Olympics and is surprisingly big for the city and prefecture of its size. You...[ Click to read more ]

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