Kumamoto Art Galleries and Museums
Jun 28, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Located in the central Kyushu region in Japan, Kumamoto prefecture is rich with its unique history and culture. There are spaces both large and small where you can bask in fine art and learn about historical events that have shaped the area. If you're looking for an afternoon getting to...[ Click to read more ]
Boat Trips in Kumamoto
May 19, 2023 By Justin Hanus
As a port city with several waterways, Kumamoto offers up a few boating opportunities. These include cruises along rivers and lakes and ferry trips that take you further afield. Here is a selection of what you can find in the prefecture. Kuma River The Kuma River is the longest in...[ Click to read more ]
Great Places for a Date in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Kumamoto has many romantic spots that are ideal for a date. Whether you’re looking for places to spend the weekend together or want somewhere you can go for a few hours after work, you have some great options. Suizenji Jojuen Garden A highlight of Kumamoto for tourists and a romantic...[ Click to read more ]
Minamata in Kumamoto: From Environmental Disaster to Eco-Town
Apr 20, 2023 By Justin Hanus
One of the worst environmental disasters in Japan occurred in Minamata (a town on Kyushu island in Kumamoto prefecture) when a chemical contaminant poisoned numerous residents; however, in the years since, Minamata has taken steps to reverse its legacy and has become certified as an eco-town. The Environmental Disaster The...[ Click to read more ]
Exploring the Amakusa Islands Near Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Around 60 kilometers from Kumamoto City is a group of unique islands called Amakusa. There are two main islands (Shimoshima and Ueshima) and hundreds of smaller ones. Isolated from the rest of Kyushu, a sizeable Christian population lives here, whose ancestors were converted by missionaries shortly before the religion was...[ Click to read more ]
Summer Days Out in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Located in the center of the southern Kyushu island of Japan, Kumamoto is known for its gorgeous scenery. There is certainly no shortage of fantastic days out during the summer months here, from picturesque hikes to relaxing boat trips to festival fun. Much has been written about famed attractions such...[ Click to read more ]
Great Walks in Kumamoto
Mar 27, 2023 By Justin Hanus
As we approach the warmer weather, savoring the great outdoors becomes a must for most. The volcanic island of Kyushu is arguably the best in Japan for hikes, many located around Kumamoto. The prefecture is blessed with mountains, gorges, and picturesque nature trails to thrill everyone, from experienced hikers to...[ Click to read more ]
The Best Thermal Spas in Kumamoto
Mar 24, 2023 By Justin Hanus
The island of Kyushu is known for having many active volcanoes. This means it’s an excellent spot for thermal spas, called onsen. There are many to choose from throughout Kumamoto prefecture, but some stand out as the best. 1. Yulax For an onsen within Kumamoto city, a top choice is...[ Click to read more ]
Why Visit Suizenji Park in Kumamoto?
By Justin Hanus
One of Kumamoto's most popular tourist spots is Suizenji Park, best known for its gardens. Strolling along the paths, over the two stone bridges, and past the ponds filled with colorful carp is the perfect way to spend a few hours. The History of the Park The construction of Suizenji...[ Click to read more ]
Top Hanami Sites in Kumamoto
Feb 24, 2023 By Justin Hanus
With spring approaching fast, people's attention starts to Japan's Hanami season. Hanami means "flower viewing," and it's the annual period in Japan, usually around late March and early April when people gather in public spaces to watch the blooming of the country's cherry blossom (Sakura) trees. Hanami is a centuries-old...[ Click to read more ]
