Aso Mountain

Mount Aso is known as the largest crater in the world. The craters Nakadake, Kussenrigahama and Daikanbo, where you can see the smoky peaks, a wonderful landscape unlike anywhere else. There are many hot springs and parks that are accessible to animals in the surrounding mountains, and you can enjoy no matter your age.

Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto Castle has a history of over 400 years old. The castle tower, Uto turret has existed since the construction of the castle and Ishigaki, called the “return warrior”. Because of the earthquake in April 2016, sightseeing is currently limited due to restoration work. From Ninomaru Square, Kato Temple, and the surrounding areas, you can see the castle clearly.

Amakusa Sakitsu Village

“Sakitsu Church” is the symbol of Sakitsu village, registered as a World Cultural Heritage is a place that connects culture with the hidden life of Christians. The Amakusa Islands, located in the southwestern part of Kumamoto prefecture, are a vast area comprising more than 120 large and small islands, popular as a marine tourist spot where you can see dolphins.

Kikuchi Valley

A beautiful valley is on the upper Kikuchi River in Kumamoto Prefecture. This is a special reserve in the national park and has been selected as one of the 100 famous water sources for Kikuchi. Many visitors from all over the country come here to see the scenery every season. It has the lush greenery of spring, the clear stream of summer, the beautiful red leaves of autumn, and a great winter.

Horse meat – Horse sashimi

Because horse meat is so easy to find in Kumamoto, the horse meat is very popular here. Compared to beef and pork, horse meat is low in calories, low in fat, low in cholesterol and high in protein, so horse meat is gradually being noticed as a healthy diet.

Taihei Tsubame

It looks like a champon with plenty of vegetables, but the noodle is a classic noodle used at the Chinese restaurant in Kumamoto. Soup is also different by salt, soy sauce and pork bones depending on the shops.

Ikinari dango

Kumamoto’s specialty is an Ikinari dango made by wrapping sweet potatoes with red bean paste in the middle, in glutinous rice flour. This is a traditional local cake that has been made by families since ancient times.

Kumamon goods

Kumamoto is the home of “Kumamon”, which was selected as the best “Yuru-chara” in Japan. Special products, stationery and sweets designed by Kumamon are on sale. The cute Kumamon goods that are only available in Kumamoto are popular with tourists.

Yamaga Lantern Festival

t’s a traditional summer festival that represents Kumamoto, where the entire town of Yamaga in August is adorned with beautiful lights. The women will wear yukata with golden lanterns on their heads and dance gracefully in a cheerful atmosphere. The most special part is “Senjin Lantern Dance”, you should try once.

Shiranui Sea Fire Festival

Continued from the legend of Shiranui, this is a festival full of history and romance. The mysterious fire and Shiranui appearing after 1 a.m which won’t let you down. Moreover, there are many events such as drum performance, dragon light procession, fireworks display.