Spots in Kumamoto Area

Area

Kumamoto
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Category

Suizen-ji Joju-en Garden (Suizenji Park)

4.0

775 Reviews

Leisure / Hobbies

Kumamoto Pref. Kumamotoshichuouku Suizenjikouen 8-1

This strolling garden has been noted as one of Japan's Places of Scenic Beauty as well as a Historic Site. Construction of the garden was started by Lord Hosokawa Tadatoshii, who was the first Hosokawa lord of the Higo province and Kumamoto, and would continue for three generations. The large 10,000 square meter lake in the garden is filled with water from the Aso spring. The park opens at 7:30 AM from March to October and at 8:30 AM from November to February and a morning stroll is highly recommended. Horseback archery events are held in the spring and fall and during the summer Noh theater performances are held by fire light. Entrance to the park is a three-minute walk from the Suizenji Park stop on the Kumamoto streetcar.

This place is nothing short of the best gardens and shrines in Kyoto, but is waaaay less crowded. I had the whole historical building used as a teahouse to myself when I came here on a Tuesday at 13...
Takefue

5.0

417 Reviews

Accommodations / Hot Spring

Kumamoto Pref. Asogunminamiogunimachi Manganji 5725-1

This hot spring inn in Minamioguni Town, Aso County welcomes day guests as well as those staying over. The inn is located in the expansive 13,240 square meter property covered by bamboo groves, and the bamboo groves also create comforting environments for their three unique reservable private baths. Completely free flowing from the source, the therapeutic hot spring water is thought to be more medically effective than other hot spring water, helping to alleviate nerve pain, muscle soreness, and fatigue, as well as promote healthy skin. They have many plans to choose from to help you enjoy your visit.

Japan has no shortage of incredible sightseeing spots, charming Onsen towns, and amazing luxury ryokans. Even with that said - of all of the ryokans we have ever stayed at, Takefue is our absolute...
Aso Shrine

4.0

349 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kumamoto Aso-shi Ichinomiyamachi Miyaji 3083-1

Records state this Shinto shrine was founded in 282 BCE. The head shrine of the 500-some Aso shrines across the country, the shrine is dedicated to Takeiwatatsu-no-Mikoto and eleven other related deities. This ancient shrine combines Shinto with a mountain faith which worships the caldera of Mt. Aso as a sacred object, and is revered as the most important shrine in what was Higo Province (now Kumamoto Prefecture). Six of the shrines structures, such as its main shrine building and two-storied gate have been designated National Important Cultural Properties. In particular, its two-storied gate is one of the largest in Kyushu and is counted as one of the three greatest two-storied shrine gates in all of Japan. Some of the shrine's many other highlights include a stone which is said to grant wishes, and a pine tree which is said to grant luck in finding love and marriage.

Aso Shrine is a big Shinto shrine in Miyaji, Aso. After the earthquake of Kumamoto, it was severely damaged and is still under restoration. The gate was covered, but a large picture of the gate was...
Kato Shrine

4.0

360 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kumamoto Pref. Kumamotoshichuouku Honmaru 2-1

Located on the northern part Kumamoto Castle's grounds, this Shinto shrine honors the local feudal lord Kato Kiyomasa, who is called by the name “Seishoko-san” by the locals in friendly manner. You can recognize it by its large white torii gate. The Seishoko Festival is held every year in July. Lots of people come for the night market the evening before the main event as well as the main festival's procession.

This shrine, located in the premises of Kumamoto Castle, is dedicated to Kato Kiyomasa, a beloved hero of Kumamoto. But the foundation of this shrine is relatively new and it only dates back to Meiji...
Ryokan Sanga

4.5

358 Reviews

Accommodations / Hot Spring

Kumamoto Pref. Asogunminamiogunimachi Manganji 6961-1

This hot spring inn located in Minamioguni Town, Aso County welcomes day visitors as well as overnight guests. They have a variety of facilities, including a cascading bath, a wooden bucket shaped reservable large private bath, an open-air bath surrounded by Aso's volcanic natural setting, and a large bathing area using a blend of water drawn from their two on-site hot spring sources. Each of these has different properties: One is a simple sulfur spring said to have various therapeutic properties, and the other a sodium chloride - hydrogen carbonate - sulfate spring that's good for the skin.

今まで訪ねた旅館の中でも上位レベルの旅館でした。全てのバランスが良く、スタッフの対応、部屋の清潔感、料理、温泉等々バランスが取れ素晴らしいものでした。また泊まりたい宿です。dont think there are many Ryokans in Japan that are so perfect. Many inns feel that the service, rooms, food...
Greenland

4.0

137 Reviews

Leisure / Hobbies

Kumamoto Pref. Araoshi Midorigaoka

Kyushu’s largest leisure land also boasts Japan’s largest number of attractions. There are 81 kinds of activities from a Ferris wheel to various roller coasters and buffet dining, meaning adults and children can both enjoy spending the whole day here. There are also events in each season including superhero shows for kids, fireworks and illuminations.

Transportaion a bit difficult but once younger there its amazing. They have a lot of roller coaster rides even a type that is standing. Definitely will go again
Kurokawa Onsen Okunoyu

4.0

136 Reviews

Accommodations / Hot Spring

Kumamoto Pref. Asogunminamiogunimachi Manganji Kurokawa 6567

This is the 26-room Kurokawa hot spring traditional Japanese inn. It sits on an extensive site of 6,600 meters squared; you can enjoy a variety of hot springs 24 hours a day depending on your personal taste such as the open-air bath, the cave bath or the family bath which can be reserved. The handcrafted river bath is popular, which commands a view of the spectacular waterfall at the front. There is also Kurokawa’s only heated hot spring pool, so you can even visit with children and have peace of mind.

I had high expectations of this place from the reviews and how it’s a lot more expensive than most Onsens. The good It’s a lovely setting. Next to the river it’s very pretty. The dinner was great...
ASO VOLCANO MUSEUM

3.5

143 Reviews

Leisure / Hobbies

Kumamoto Pref. Asoshi Akamizu 1930-1

This three-story museum in Aso City is dedicated to Mt. Aso, an active volcano. The second floor's permanent exhibit features panel displays of the area's geology and the current conditions of the volcano. The third floor has video facilities showcasing Aso's natural environment and the area's folk culture. The museum lets visitors view the craters in real time, helpful when access is restricted due to bad weather or volcanic activity. Head to the first floor for the gift shop and a restaurant serving light fare.

It is a museum about Volcanos, which is located in Kusasenri. On the day I visited, I couldn’t visit the top of Aso due to a fog, so I decided to go this museum instead. It is quite instructive. But...
Kumamoto Castle

Travel / Tourism

Kumamoto Pref. Kumamotoshichuouku Honmaru 1-1

In 1607, Kato Kiyomasa built a castle in a hilly area called Chausuyama, which is one of the three premier castles in Japan. Thereafter, Kumamoto Castle has been a stage of a diverse history for 400 years from the Middle Ages to the present age. Castle buildings from those days are also in existence, and 13 of the buildings have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Kumamoto Castle was damaged in the Kumamoto earthquake which occurred in April 2016, and restoration work is currently still under way.
HOTEL GREENPIA MINAMIASO

4.0

171 Reviews

Accommodations / Hot Spring

Kumamoto Pref. Asogunminamiasomura Hisaishi 4411-9

This day-use hot spring hotel is in Minamiaso Village, Aso County. Come for the bathing, the food, and the great view of Mt. Aso's five peaks. Their outdoor bath, which allows bathers to take in the seasonal scenery, and their Ishizumi-no-Yu bath, which conjures up the image of magnificent Mt. Aso, are great places for a soak. The restaurant has a lunch buffet, and their relaxation facilities offer esthetic treatments and more.

Stayed for 1 night in January 2021. Took the sukiyaki dinner plan and the food was really good, with a side buffet of items such as fish, potato, vegetables, fruits, salad, and even yogurt and...
Kikuchi Gorge

4.5

153 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kumamoto Pref. Kikuchishi Haru

It is located approximately 50 minutes away from the Ueki Interchange on the Kyushu Expressway. This gorge stretches within the Aso-Kuju National Park, and is a scenic area that has been selected as one of the Top 100 Forested Valleys in Japan, the 100 elections of the waterfall in Japan and the Top 100 Famous Water. Also known as Kikuchi Suigen, the underground water of Mt. Asogairin, which flows between a broadleaf forest, creates various lakes and waterfalls of various sizes, creating a landscape filled with variety. The average water temperature in the summer is 13 degrees Celsius, so it is called a natural cooler and is popular as a summer resort area. You can enjoy fresh greenery in the spring, colorful leaves in the autumn and frosty flowers that bloom over the whole mountain in the winter.

Wonderful facilities that have recently been upgraded. Magical photo opportunities and zen like peace and beauty! Highly recommend the chicken yakitorii at the entrance!!
Aoi Aso-jinja Shrine

4.0

205 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kumamoto Pref. Hitoyoshishi Kamiaoimachi 118

This shrine was built in 806, the first year of Emperor Heizei’s reign, and became known as the shrine dedicated to the local deity of the Kuma region. The main building was constructed starting in 1610 over the course of approximately three years by Nagatsune Sagara, and it still stands today. It features a black thatched roof with steep slopes, as well as gorgeously colored, exquisitely decorative Momoyama-style sculptures. In 2008, the five sections of the main shrine building were designated National Treasures. White flowers bloom around the lotus pond in early summer, making it quite a sight to behold.

This wooden carving Aoi Shrine has over 1200 years history. The 5 structures has been recognized National Treasures in 2008; The gate, Mail hall, Corridor, Offering hall and Oratory. There are...
Kumamoto City Zoological and Botanical Gardens

4.0

101 Reviews

Leisure / Hobbies

Kumamoto Pref. Kumamotoshihigashiku Kengun 5-14-2

This park is divided into the three zones of animal petting zone, seasonal flowers vegetation zone, and amusement park zone. Now, due to reconstruction work following the Kumamoto earthquake, the flower bed around the botanical garden, animal petting area, part of animal museum exhibition area (elephants, giraffes) and part of the amusement park have been opened free to the public. It is around a 10-minute walk from the Kumamoto tram’s Doshokubutsuen Irigiuchi Station.

For some of the animals the cages are tiny. Seeing how depressed and lonely some of the animals looked whilst children jeered and tormented them was was a horrible experience. This experience changed...
Roadside Station Ozu

4.0

78 Reviews

Transportation

Kumamoto Pref. Kikuchigunodumachi Hikinomizu 759

This roadside station is in Ozu Town, Kikuchi County. Its specialty shop sells items from around the prefecture, as well as handicrafts, daily essentials, and women's clothes. Their popular taiyaki treats are made with sweet potatoes (the region grows the most in the prefecture). You can watch vendors make ikinari dango dumplings, a Kumamoto favorite, as well as spicy mustard filled lotus root. The restaurant serves fare like gyudon beef rice bowl, steak, and yakiniku (Japanese style barbecue) featuring the local Aka beef.

・Croissant sweet potato tai-yaki →There is a volume.And,the combination of sweet potatos and red bean paste are good. We can enjoy croissants and Taiyaki together. ・Red bean tai-yaki →It is softer...
Yamaga Onsen Sakurayu

4.0

91 Reviews

Accommodations / Hot Spring

Kumamoto Pref. Yamagashi Yamaga 1-1

This day use hot spring facility is in Yamaga City, Kumamoto Prefecture. It was demolished in 1973, rebuilt in 2012, and is now one of the largest wooden spas on the island of Kyushu. It features a spacious inner bathing area replete with stone and wood, and its free-flowing alkaline simple thermal spring is said to be good for the skin. They also regularly hold special events such as Yamaga Sakurayu kaito Festival, and more.

It is worth traveling to Yamaga to visit this public bath. It is very simple with just one big bathtub. There is no modern facility like sauna. But it is the original form of public bath in Japan...
Contemporary Art Museum Kumamoto

4.0

118 Reviews

Leisure / Hobbies

Kumamoto Pref. Kumamotoshichuouku Kamitorichou 2-3 Plums Bear Sun Hall Kaikan 3F

Opened in 2002, the Contemporary Art Museum Kumamoto is an art museum spreading Kumamoto’s beloved artistic culture far and wide with the works of Kumamoto and Kyushu-born artists active nationwide. With a child-rearing space and childcare studio (Kids Factory) it can be enjoyed by families too. Travel 15 minutes from JR Kumamoto Station by bus or tram, and alight at Torichosuji.

This museum was a fill in due to so much of the city being renovated; main tourist interest places are closed or limited access.
Roadside Station Oguni

3.5

109 Reviews

Transportation

Kumamoto Pref. Asogunogunimachi Miyabaru 1754-17

"This roadside station is in Oguni Town, Aso County. It's also known locally as ""Yu Station."" Completely covered in mirror glass and made with local Oguni cedar, it's Japan's first wooden-space truss building. The first floor has a gift shop selling specialty products, and the second floor is a tourist information center providing all you need to know about the region. It's on the site of what was once the Japanese National Railway's Higo-Oguni Station."

As my title suggest , nothing much at this place. First floor sell souvenirs and snacks while the 2nd floor is a small exhibition of photo taken of various part of japan.
Takamorimachi Yusui Tunnel Park

4.0

108 Reviews

Leisure / Hobbies

Kumamoto Pref. Asoguntakamorimachi Takamori 1034-2

Walk 10 minutes south from Takamori Station. After construction work to connect the Takamori Line and Takachiho Line of the former national railway was stopped, 550 meters of the tunnel entrance were given over to become a park. There is a walking path set up inside the tunnel, which features all manner of attractions including the “Water Pearl” fountain where one can watch the wonderful movement of water droplets, and projection mapping. Seasonal events include the summer “Star Festival” and winter “Christmas Fantasy.”

The volume of water running around 32 tons every minute. Wow! Actually, a Railway company of Japan wanted to build a rail line here but, during drilling huge amount of water came out. Then the...
Yachiyoza

4.5

113 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kumamoto Pref. Yamagashi Yamaga 1499

Yachioyaza, one of Japan’s Important Cultural Properties, is a playhouse built in 1910. Since opening they have put on a variety of shows, but with the changing era the number of visitors fell and the place closed. However, thanks to the ardent fund-raising activities of groups both old and young, restoration took place over 30 years and it is now a working playhouse again. It is also possible to take a look behind the scenes of the theater, from the revolving stage to the theater basement.

Yachiyoza is one of the old Japanese theaters still in use. Actually it was a reconstruction and the actual building has only 20 years of history. But it was so finely reconstructed that we can now...
AINO AMAKUSA MURA

4.0

103 Reviews

Shopping

Kumamoto Pref. Kamiamakusashi Oyanomachinoboritate 910

This specialty shop in Kamiamakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture is well known for its roughly 15-meter statue of Amakusa Shiro, the tallest of its kind in Japan. Their Amakusa Umakamon Market sells local specialties and their Shima Café where you can enjoy the feeling of being in a tropical country serves various Asian sweets such as drinks with tapioca pearls. You can tour a chikuwa fish cake factory there too. Lots of visitors drop in here while sightseeing in Amakusa.

About 5 km south of the 1st Pearl Line Bridge (where a new one is going up alongside the old), is a large parking lot on the west side of the road that you cant miss. Right on the road is a giant...

Kumamoto City Kikuchi / Yamaga Arao Tamana Aso Yatsushiro / Uki / Kamimashiki Amakusa

Leisure / Hobbies Shopping Gourmet / Alcohol Style / Fashion Life / Living / Hospital Accommodations / Hot Spring Travel / Tourism Transportation

Kumamoto Areas

Kumamoto lies in the center of Kyushu, a calm prefecture perfect for easy strolls around the historic center and lazy evenings in the natural hot springs at Kurokawa Onsen. For a slightly more strenuous activity, head to Mount Aso, whose surrounding hills offer hiking opportunities aplenty with views over the active volcano.