What’s So Special About Kuma Shochu?
Oct 25, 2022 By Justin Hanus
Shochu is a distilled liquor mainly produced in areas where the climate is too warm to make sake. Although records are scarce (particularly primary sources), people have been drinking shochu since the Sengoku Period, which lasted from 1467 to 1590 — the earliest written reference dates back to 1559. One...[ Click to read more ]
Thanksgiving in Kumamoto
Oct 24, 2022 By Justin Hanus
Like many countries, Japan celebrates Thanksgiving each November. However, things are slightly different in the Land of the Rising Sun. Japan has a Labor Thanksgiving Day on November 23 each year rather than on the fourth Thursday of November, like it is in the United States. It’s a day to...[ Click to read more ]
Where to Learn Japanese in Kumamoto
Sep 28, 2022 By Justin Hanus
Are you an expat who’s moved to Kumamoto prefecture, and your Japanese doesn’t extend beyond “konnichiwa” and “sayonara”? Then you might be looking to brush up on your language skills to help you in your everyday life. Here are a few places where you can learn Japanese in Kumamoto, including...[ Click to read more ]
Expat Clubs in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
If you've moved to Kumamoto prefecture from overseas, you will likely be interested in making links with international and expat groups in the area. Kumamoto doesn't have an expat network as developed as some parts of Japan, but it's building up again following the departures of many foreign residents following...[ Click to read more ]
Who is Kumamon?
By Justin Hanus
All the prefectures in Japan have mascots, but Kumamon — the one from Kumamoto — is special. As well as being popular throughout Japan, he’s known worldwide. Something about this black bear has captured the hearts of people around the globe. The Origins of Kumamon Kumamon came into existence in...[ Click to read more ]
Best Restaurants in Kumamoto
Aug 31, 2022 By Justin Hanus
Kumamoto has excellent food. As well as several specialties like Kumamoto ramen, aka beef bowl, and taipien, you’ll find delicious desserts (ranging from soft-serve ice cream to chestnut sweets) and drinks including sake, kuma shochu, and wine. Several restaurants in Kumamoto stand out as the best places to try these...[ Click to read more ]
Great Walks in Kumamoto Prefecture
Aug 30, 2022 By Justin Hanus
Kumamoto has to be one of the best destinations in Japan for walks. The number of options available means you’ll never need to repeat the same walk — although you may discover some favorites you want to return to repeatedly. As a starting point, a few walks, in particular, stand...[ Click to read more ]
Autumn Festivals in Kumamoto Prefecture
By Justin Hanus
Japan is famous for its traditional festivals, most of which involve parades, dancing, and performances. Every prefecture has its festivals, and Kumamoto is no exception. If you are in Kumamoto between September and November, you’ll have the chance to attend a few. Kumamoto Castle Autumn Festival Kumamoto Castle is the...[ Click to read more ]
The History of Kumamoto Castle
Jul 25, 2022 By Justin Hanus
There are many castles throughout Japan, but Kumamoto Castle has a particularly rich history. In addition, it is one of just three considered premier castles, with the other two being Himeji Castle and Matsumoto Castle. While active, it was an expansive, well-fortified castle. Most of what you see today is...[ Click to read more ]
Sampling Organic Farm-Fresh Produce in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
South of Mount Aso is a town in Kumamoto called Yamato. Although it’s relatively unknown as a tourist destination, it’s the perfect spot for organic farming due to the minerals from volcanic ash in the soil and water and the cool climate. The organic farming trend in Yamato began more...[ Click to read more ]
