Street Food in Kumamoto
Jan 20, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Japanese cuisine is a very distinct part of the country’s culture and each part of the country has its own local dishes and twists on national favourites. Kumamoto is no different. One of the key prefectures on Kyushu Island with a vibrant city, it’s known for its ramen, akagyu beef...[ Click to read more ]
Best Zoos, Farms and Aquariums in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Spending time with nature and observing diverse animals and creatures in zoos and aquariums is a great way of relaxing for a few hours and providing entertainment and education for young children. Here is a selection of zoos and aquariums in Kumamoto, where you can see a range of species...[ Click to read more ]
Great Shrines for Hatsumode in Kumamoto
Dec 27, 2022 By Justin Hanus
The turn of the year is holiday time in Japan. People are off work to celebrate the New Year with parties, family gatherings, culinary feasts, and hatsumode. Hatsumode is the year’s first visit to a Shinto shrine (or sometimes a Buddhist temple). It is traditionally made between January 1st and...[ Click to read more ]
Unique and Unusual Attractions in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Kumamoto is a beautiful prefecture on the island of Kyushu, probably most well-known for the breathtaking Mount Aso and the historic Kumamoto Castle. But there’s much more to the region than that, including some lesser-known treats that don’t necessarily attract the biggest crowds. Here are some of the more unique...[ Click to read more ]
The JR Kyushu Trains with the Best Views
Dec 26, 2022 By Justin Hanus
All the Design & Story Trains of the JR Kyushu railway are designed to bring passengers unique experiences. However, a few trains stand out for providing outstanding views along the way. Ibusuki No Tamatebako The idea for the Ibusuki No Tametebako train came from the folk tale Dragon's Palace. When...[ Click to read more ]
Best Ramen Restaurants in Kumamoto
Dec 24, 2022 By Justin Hanus
Kumamoto is a culinary center in Japan, but a top dish from the city has to be its ramen. Kumamoto-style ramen consists of pork broth, medium-size noodles, and toppings of Kikurage mushrooms, green onions, and pork (called chashu). You can also find Tamana ramen in Kumamoto, made of pork bone...[ Click to read more ]
Christmas in Kumamoto
Nov 29, 2022 By Justin Hanus
There are many ways expats feeling homesick for Christmas can get into the festive spirit in Kumamoto. Although Christmas is not an official holiday in Japan, Kumamoto is one of many cities in the country that acknowledges the festival with events and light displays. Christmas in Japan Japan is not...[ Click to read more ]
Wine Tasting in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
There are several wineries across Kyushu, including a couple in Kumamoto. Visiting one is a great way to learn more about the wine from the region. Even more importantly, you’ll be able to sample various products before you decide which to buy. The Wineries The best-known winery in Kumamoto is...[ Click to read more ]
Great Pubs for Expats in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Kumamoto has a vibrant nightlife that draws in locals and foreigners alike. There are many excellent pubs for expats to check out, ranging from small intimate bars to live music spots to bars where revelers can drink and dance late into the night. Here are a few spots to visit...[ Click to read more ]
Who Are the Figures of the Statues Near Kumamoto Castle?
Oct 25, 2022 By Justin Hanus
On the Tsuboi River, next to Kumamoto Castle, is Takahashi Park, named for the former mayor of Kumamoto. Although it's only a small park, it's significant because of its memorial to five heroes of the 19th-century Meiji Restoration. The park also features a statue of Kato Kiyomasa and the bust...[ Click to read more ]
