Kumamoto Prefecture

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...[ Click to read more ]

Wine Tasting in Kumamoto

Nov 29, 2022 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...[ Click to read more ]

Great Pubs for Expats in Kumamoto

Nov 29, 2022 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...[ 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...[ Click to read more ]

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...[ 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...[ 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...[ Click to read more ]

Expat Clubs in Kumamoto

Sep 28, 2022 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...[ Click to read more ]

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Who is Kumamon?

Sep 28, 2022 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...[ Click to read more ]

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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...[ Click to read more ]