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 ]
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 ]
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 ]
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 ]
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 ]
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 ]
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 ]
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 ]
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 ]
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 ]