Top 15 things to do in Kumamoto according to TripAdvisor

What are the top things to do in Kumamoto? According to TripAdvisor, here are 15 of the top things to do while visiting this prefecture.

Kumamoto suffered from a large earthquake in 2016, but the city has since recovered from this devastating blow. Kumamoto castle which had partially collapsed due to the quake is now being rebuilt. There's even a tour to go see the construction, so this is your one chance to be able to go see a Japanese castle being built.

Kumamoto Castle

A castle built making skillful use of the surrounding topography. There are also some surviving remnants of the old castle town. The underlying shade of black on the exterior of Kumamoto Castle is symbolic.

Daikanbo

A natural observation point from where you can see the Five Mountains of Aso and the Kuju Mountains of Oita Prefecture. The fresh greenery in the spring and the mountains that look like “Nehanzo” (lying down Buddha statue) floating over the sea of clouds makes a picture perfect view.

Kurokawa-onsen

One famous trait of this “onsen” is the sight of people walking around in their “yukata” (summer kimono) touring the open air baths. You can use the “onsen pass" to tour multiple baths. The beautiful townscape and the first rate onsen will relax your mind and body.

Nabegataki Falls

This is an unusual waterfall which you can approach close enough to be showered in its spray. You can also walk behind it’s curtain of water. From behind the waterfall, you can enjoy the wonderful view of fresh greenery in early summer and the fall colors.

Tsujun Bridge

The spectacular sight of water being released from this splendid arched bridge created from stone and mortar, is something not to be missed. Tsujun Bridge is an aqueduct ingeniously built by our forebears that has miraculously survived since a century ago.

Mt. Naka Crater at Mt. Aso

Mount Naka is an active volcano. Feel the breathtaking beauty of nature in Aso through the rising steam from the emerald green volcanic lake and the “Sunasenri” desert area blanketed in volcanic ash.

Suizen-ji Joju-en Garden

Centered upon a pond whose spring water continues to flow all year long, this is a scenic garden made to resemble the 53 stations of the old Tokaido highway. The beautiful landscape can be enjoyed all throughout the year.

Old Hosokawa Gyobu-tei House

A hidden spot within the grounds of Kumamoto Castle. You can learn about the lifestyle of the Hosokawa clan which wielded great authority back in the day. Leisurely walk along the magnificent samurai complex.

Laputa’s Road

This road running along the cliffs of the mountain ridge is like a path right out of the world of Laputa. The lovely scenery of the Aso Valley including the mighty Mount Aso and the rice paddies spread out in front of you. *Entry to Laputa's Road has been prohibited due to the Kumamoto earthquakes in 2016. Please contact the Department of Tourism of Kumamoto Prefecture for the latest information.

Kikuchi Valley

Clear rivers, chosen as some of Japan’s best, flow through a lush forest, as waterfalls of varying size create ever changing torrents.

Kamitori/Shimotori Shopping Arcade

Kumamoto’s liveliest shopping district, this gigantic commercial arcade is divided into Kamitori and Shimotori with shops specializing in fashion, general goods, cuisine and other recreational facilities of all kinds. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars.

Suizenji Ezuko Park

Lake Ezu stretches from the center of Kumamoto City in a southeast direction for 2.5km and has a perimeter of 6km, and the area is admired as a natural park with underground water. The lake is divided into upper and lower parts where you can enjoy activities such as nature walks, cycling and boating.

Sakura-no-Baba/Johsaien

An Edo Era castle town has been recreated where samurai warriors once came and went on the streets around Kumamoto Castle on horseback. There are restaurants where you can sample the local dishes and traditional handicraft shops. At the historical cultural experience facility, Wakuwaku-za, the castle is introduced through media such as CG video. You can even enjoy experiences such as the Narikiri Taiken where you can try on period clothing.

Kato Shrine

During his heyday from the 16th century to the beginning of the 17th century, military commander Kiyomasa Kato established Kumamoto Castle and also contributed Kato Shrine where he is now enshrined for prosperity and a safe population. Located within the grounds of Kumamoto Castle, the shrine is also famous as the perfect spot to view the castle up close.

Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Center

Damascening, ceramic ware, cutlery, dyed fabrics, folk toys and other old traditional handicrafts of Kumamoto Prefecture are all brought together here and sold. Also, these handicrafts which are beloved within and outside the area are on display with even products exhibited and sold by the artisans themselves.

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