Capturing Kumamoto: 5 Must-Visit Photogenic Autumn Spots in Kumamoto
Yuki Yasuda, a celebrated photo artist known for her work in Kumamoto and Fukuoka, shares her favorite smartphone-friendly locations for capturing the essence of fall. From hidden leaf-peeping treasures within Kumamoto City to enchanting scenes of waterfalls and rainbows, and parks alive with golden gingko trees, this guide covers five essential spots for family and photography enthusiasts alike.
Minamata Travel Guide: 2 Days of History, Ocean Fun & Local Flavour
Discover Minamata in 2 days: history, hot springs, eco-friendly culture, local champon, and sweets on this model Kyushu road trip itinerary.
Soaking in the Past: 8 Storied Onsen of Minamata
Tucked between the sea and the mountains, Minamata is home to two remarkably different hot spring areas—Yunoko and Yunotsuru—each offering its own kind of healing escape. Read on to discover what makes them both worth the journey.
Eat Like a Local at Obentō no Hirai, Kumamoto’s Convenience Food Chain
Discover Kumamoto’s hometown chain Obentō no Hirai—bento, side dishes, local favourites like sarada chikuwa, plus nearby sights in Tateno and Aso.
A Time for Fish and Rice: Sahanji (魚飯時) in Kumamoto City
Enjoy freshly cooked claypot rice and seasonal Japanese cuisine featuring monthly-changing fish and ingredients. Fully reservation-only with fixed meal start times.
Exploring Ashikita: The Real-Life Inspiration Behind “Diary of Our Days at the Breakwater”
Discover the charming seaside setting of Ashikita Town, the real-world backdrop for the heartwarming anime and manga "Diary of Our Days at the Breakwater." Join us as we embark on a fishing journey, guided by the tips and tricks learned from the Breakwater Club, and delve into the vibrant local culture that inspired this beloved series.
4 Yoshoku (Western-Style) Restaurants in Southern Kumamoto
Love classic Western-style Japanese food? Discover four beloved restaurants in Yatsushiro and Minamata, each with over 30 years of history. Nostalgia and flavour guaranteed.
5 Lunch Spots in Amakusa – Local Favorites You Don’t Want to Miss
Discover 5 must-try lunch restaurants in Amakusa, Kumamoto – from fresh sushi and tempura to stylish local pottery dining. Perfect stops during your island adventure!
3 Koji-Based Food Experiences in Yamaga – From Miso Soup to Miso Caramel
We head to the Kamoto area of Yamaga to introduce three must-try stops for miso, soy sauce, and koji-based treats—yes, even miso caramel desserts!
Kumamoto’s Beloved Backstreets: Kawaramachi Textile District
Renowned photo artist Yuki Yasuda, based in Kumamoto and Fukuoka, continues her series "Beloved Backstreets" with the visually rich Kawaramachi Textile District. Once bustling with post-war vibrancy, this street in the heart of Kumamoto now breathes with artistic life, attracting many with its charming alleys. Join us as we guide you through this enchanting locale, blending exquisite photography with the allure of hidden streets.
Yamato Town Visitor’s Guide: History, Culture, Souvenirs and Travel Tips
This article serves as your complete guide to Yamato Town, a lesser-known but culturally rich spot in the heart of Kyushu. From historic landmarks like Tsujunkyo Bridge to local specialties such as tea, niku-miso, and chestnut sweets, we’ll cover the highlights of its heritage, attractions, and practical tips for visitors. Whether you’re planning a trip or just curious about this unique destination, here’s everything you need to know.
Summer is Here! Kumamoto’s Best Beaches, Rivers, and Cooling-Off Spots
Summer means splashing around! Kumamoto boasts beautiful beaches, stunning rivers, and fun-filled pools—a treasure trove of activities! Make a splash on your summer outings!
Kumamoto’s 5 Best Lunches Under 1,000 Yen: Delicious & Affordable Eats
Eating cheap in Kumamoto? Get our top 5 picks for delicious lunches under 1,000 Yen! From curry to okonomiyaki, find your next favorite wallet-friendly meal.
Explore Arao with This Educational Summer Itinerary
A fun and educational day trip in the Arao area—perfect for families and curious young minds!
Kumamoto’s Cutest Kakigōri Showdown – Eye-Candy Shaved-Ice You Can Taste With Your Eyes
Self-confessed “cute-and-sweet addict” BOWZ goes on a photo-delicious quest to compare two picture-perfect kakigōri (Japanese shaved-ice) creations in Kumamoto. Spoiler: your camera eats first.
Firelight and Tradition: Takigi Noh Theatre at Suizenji Garden
Experience the magic of Takigi Noh at Suizenji Garden in Kumamoto—an open-air torchlit Noh performance with deep ties to the historic Hosokawa clan. Free admission, rich tradition, unforgettable summer atmosphere.
Discovering the Flavors of Yatsushiro: Strawberry Season at Yamashita Ichigo Farm
Blessed with abundant nature and fertile land, Yatsushiro is one of Kyushu’s top agricultural regions. In this new series exploring the area’s local delicacies, we kick off with a spotlight on strawberries—featuring seasonal sweets, an interview with a local grower, and a look into the future of smart farming in Yatsushiro.
3 Must-Try Fresh Milk Spots in Aso, Kumamoto🥛🐮🐄
Kumamoto Prefecture is not just known for its natural beauty but also for its rich dairy culture. Explore three outstanding spots in Aso where you can taste some of the freshest milk directly from the source!
Guide to the “Unkai”—Sea of Clouds—on Mt. Aso
For an unparalleled view of unkai (雲海), or the sea of clouds, Aso is the ultimate destination. This magnificent natural display, best seen from the end of the rainy season through autumn, offers a breathtaking experience where clouds cascade below like an expansive ocean.
Photogenic Cherry Blossom Spots in Kumamoto – Spring 2025 Edition
Spring brings a breathtaking wave of cherry blossoms to Kumamoto. From glowing lanterns at Honmyoji to the dreamy tunnels of Tachioka Nature Park, these stunning spots offer perfect moments to capture. Let’s welcome the season and discover new beauty through the lens.
Vegan in the Kuma Valley: A Rural Shift Toward Plant-Based Cuisine
Explore how a quiet corner of Japan is leading the way in plant-based dining, from ryokan kaiseki to farm-to-table cooking.
Kuma Shochu: The Spirit of the Valley
The Spirit of the Valley: Discover the rich tradition of Kuma Shochu, a rice-based spirit with over 500 years of history and deep local roots.