Greetings all, I’m Yasuda, with an unending love for the backstreets.

Welcome to “Kumamoto’s Beloved Backstreets,” where I introduce the charming alleyways of Kumamoto. This time, let’s explore Kumamoto’s kitchen, the Kokai Shopping Street.

Behold the charming chaos of Kokai Shopping Street (子飼商店街)

Walking through the gate that feels like a step back into the Showa era…

The late afternoon sun adds a touch of melancholic emotion to the picture.

Though I went in the early evening, the mornings seem to buzz with more activity.

Here, you’ll find a variety of individually owned shops like tsukemono pickle stores, greengrocers, and general stores lined up side by side.

Just strolling through these eclectic vibes is a treat.

Did you know? This area is also where the famous enka singer Kiyoko Suizenji was born and raised.

After the Kumamoto earthquake in 2016, many shops were forced to close. In recent years there have been efforts to revitalize the community, such as this project that utilizes shuttered shopfronts as canvases for art.

I once took a photo in front of this Godzilla mural here.

Continuing through Kokai Shopping Street and wandering for a while, you’ll arrive at an approach to a shrine.

A leisurely walk of about three minutes brings you to Fujisaki Hachimangu.

Perfect for a stroll.

Today I’m ending this backstreet tour with a visit to Fujisaki Hachimangu, sometimes considered the guardian deity of Kumamoto, through its majestic gate.

Kokai Shopping Street (子飼商店街)