Historical Walk in Hitoyoshi

Hitoyoshi was historically a castle town that served as a strategic center of activity in Kumamoto Prefecture. This town was built around the Kumagawa River, which once held a bustling river port, and at the foot of the Kyushu Mountains, so this area is well known for its beauty and is sometimes referred to as “Little Kyoto.” The Sagara clan ruled in this area for hundreds of years and features heavily in many of the sites of Hitoyoshi. If you’re interested in learning more about the area’s history while seeing beautiful places, there are a few sights you should check out.

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Aoi Aso Shrine

This Shinto shrine was established in the 9th century, but the current structure was built some time in the 17th century. It was the family shrine of the Sagara clan, who believed that the shrine protected the region, in the Middle Ages. In 2008, several structures included in this site were formally designated as Japanese national treasures. It’s easy to see why. The vibrant colors and unique architecture from various periods contrasting with the natural backdrop of the surrounding forest make this shrine truly special. You can reserve a tour with one of the priests in advance and even enjoy some plum wine for a small fee.

Aoi Aso-jinja Shrine

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: Kumamoto Pref. Hitoyoshishi Kamiaoimachi 118

: 0966222274

: 9:00-17:00[Red seal/exorcism…

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Travel Guide

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Hitoyoshi Castle

Once the home to the Sagara clan for hundreds of years, the ruins of this castle are still well worth visiting. Running alone the Kumagawa River, this castle has immaculately maintained grounds. The greenery and gardens of the grounds give the area a peaceful atmosphere. Sadly, during the Meiji Reconstruction Era, much of the castle was demolished to symbolize the transition from the previous era’s ruling elite to the new industrialized Japan.

Hitoyoshi Castle Ruins

: Kumamoto Pref. Hitoyoshishi Fumotomachi

: 0966222111

: Open 24 hours

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Kajiyamachi Area

If you’re interested in seeing Japanese life as it was hundreds of years ago, you can visit the Kajiyamachi area. While the area isn’t some sort of re-enactment village, it does keep many of Japan’s craft traditions and architecture alive. The houses and the stone streets give this area a unique appearance from most cityscapes in Japan. You can take a tour and sample the products of a soy and miso brewery, enjoy a traditional teahouse, and even see a blacksmith at work. This area is perfect if you want to get away from the gray buildings of the city and see an older way of life thriving in a modern environment.

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Aoi Aso Shrine Area

It’s easy to visit all these places in one day. Starting from Hitoyoshi Station, it’s just a 5-minute walk to reach the Aoi Aso Shrine. From the shrine, you need to cross the Kumagawa River to get to Hitoyoshi Castle. It’s only 1.7 kilometers away, so taking a taxi is probably the best way to get there. After taking a look around the castle grounds, you can take another taxi or a 20-minute walk back across the river to the North. The bridges that cross the river have pedestrian walkways, but if you find you’re getting short on time, a taxi ride will probably be around 1,000 yen.