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 ]
Sports Classes in Kumamoto
Feb 22, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Looking to participate in some sporting pursuits in Kumamoto? You can find plenty of municipal and private gyms and sports centers across the prefecture that offer multi-sports as well as a few facilities that specialise in particular activities. Here’s a quick rundown of where to go and what you can...[ Click to read more ]
Top Things to Do in Aso, Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Best known for being the largest inhabited caldera in the world, Aso in Kumamoto has plenty to offer. It offers fantastic hikes and cultural spots you won’t want to miss. 1. Mount Aso The main reason to come to Aso is to visit one of the largest active volcanoes in...[ Click to read more ]
Valentine’s Day in Kumamoto
Jan 20, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Are you looking to spoil someone on Valentine’s Day this year? Although more of a Western tradition, Valentine’s Day is becoming bigger in Japan, especially with the growing expat community who usually mark the 14th of February down in their diary as a special day. Here’s what to expect in...[ Click to read more ]
