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.
Explore the healing hot springs of Hitoyoshi-Kuma, from riverside ryokan and local bathhouses to mountain retreats and super sento escapes.
Top Things to Do in the Kuma Valley
From historic landmarks to river adventures and samurai sword training, here are the best ways to experience Hitoyoshi-Kuma.
Hitoyoshi-Kuma Complete Guide: A Valley 700 Years in the Making
A Valley 700 Years in the Making: Explore the Kuma Valley, a region shaped by history, nature, and tradition. From samurai-era castles to river adventures, onsen, and local cuisine, this overview covers the key highlights of this hidden valley in southern Kyushu.
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.
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.
Complete Guide to Kumamoto’s One Piece Statues: 10 Must-See Sculptures with 2-Night, 3-Day Itinerary
Did you know that statues of the characters from One Piece are scattered throughout Kumamoto Prefecture? This guide explores the popular locations where you can find these statues, offering a detailed itinerary and insights into each sculpture. Perfect for families and One Piece fans alike, this guide will help you make the most of your visit!
TSUBOI SOUP: Breakfast & Books by Kumamoto Castle
Nestled quietly along the banks of Tsuboi River near Kumamoto Castle, and near Natsume Soseki's former residence lies TSUBOI SOUP, a serene retreat offering heartwarming Japanese breakfasts and carefully selected Kumamoto sake. Combining the comfort of books with nourishing local cuisine, it’s an ideal spot to savor a slow, meaningful morning in Kumamoto.
Exploring Yamato Town in a Kumamon Rent-a-Car: 2-Day Itinerary
With the Kyushu Chūō Expressway making Yamato Town more accessible than ever, we embarked on a 2-day road trip to explore this 'Metropolis of the Mountain,' blending stunning nature, rich culture, and local flavors—all with the help of the Kumamon Rent-a-Car.
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!
Nagasu Town: Exploring One of Japan’s Premier Goldfish Breeding Grounds
For goldfish enthusiasts, here’s a special treat. Nagasu Town is celebrated as a hub for goldfish enthusiasts, bustling with 15 fish farming enterprises. Families here dedicate themselves to nurturing goldfish and koi. You’ll find attractions ranging from a goldfish and koi park to delightful goldfish-shaped sweets! A must-visit for anyone passionate about goldfish.
General-Secretary of the Curry Party of Kumamoto
Banana Leaf Magic: Unwrapping Sri Lankan Home Cooking at “Ruvani” in Downtown Kumamoto
Top Pick of 2,000 Kumamoto Curry Aficionados! Dive into unique, heartwarming curries as we introduce "Ruvani Sri Lanka Restaurant," nestled in Namikizaka. A delightful spot to easily enjoy authentic Sri Lankan home cooking in the heart of Kumamoto!
See Adorable Jumping Gobies at Arao’s Tidal Flat & Wetland Center
Join Miyata on a stroll through the Arao Tidal Flat & Wetland Center, where he uncovers the eclectic mix of sea creatures and birds that call this place home. Just a short walk from Minami-Arao Station, discover the area's natural beauty and the unexpected joys of exploring local wildlife through his eyes.
Kumamoto’s Beloved Backstreets: Kokai Shopping Street
A Lively Blend of Warmth, Nostalgia, and Melancholy. Join photo artist Yasuda Yuuki, who travels extensively across Kumamoto and Fukuoka, for this installment of "Kumamoto's Beloved Backstreets." This time, we explore the vibrantly chaotic Kokai Shopping Street.
Mogushi Beach: Summertime in Kumamoto’s Secluded Coastal Paradise
Explore Mogushi Beach in Amakusa, Kumamoto: pristine waters, secluded sands, and stunning scenery on the southwestern tip of Shimoshima Island.
Capture Kumamoto: A Photographer’s Guide to Summer Scenery
Join local photographer Yasuda Yuki as she unveils some of Kumamoto’s most photogenic locations, from the tidal transformations of Nagabeta Sea Road to the tranquil reflections of Arao Tidal Flat.
Amakusa Five Bridges Cruise: A Serene Journey Through the Islands
Embarking on the Amakusa Five Bridges C…
E-Bike Pedalling Through Takamori Town – Guide to ‘Guruchari’ Rental Service
Have you heard about 'Guruchari'? For just 2,800 yen, rent an electric-assist bicycle (helmet included)! But that's not all—your rental also comes with 10 vouchers usable at local Takamori shops and a discount ticket for the Takamori Spring Water Tunnel. Join us as we introduce 15 participating venues where you can use your tickets for a rich combination of cycling, dining, and local experiences!
The Horse Tradition: The Fascinating Tale Behind Kumamoto’s Basashi Culture
Explore the mystery of Kumamoto's specialty, basashi! Learn about the history of horse meat linked to Lord Kiyomasa, its surprising nutritional value, why it's called "sakura meat," and discover the charm of original horse meat dishes.
Vegan in the Kuma Valley: A Rural Shift Toward Plant-Based Cuisine
Hitoyoshi-Kuma Complete Guide: A Valley 700 Years in the Making
Photogenic Cherry Blossom Spots in Kumamoto – Spring 2025 Edition
Yamato Town Visitor’s Guide: History, Culture, Souvenirs and Travel Tips
Complete Guide to Kumamoto’s One Piece Statues: 10 Must-See Sculptures with 2-Night, 3-Day Itinerary
Exploring Yamato Town in a Kumamon Rent-a-Car: 2-Day Itinerary
Summer is Here! Kumamoto’s Best Beaches, Rivers, and Cooling-Off Spots
Nagasu Town: Exploring One of Japan’s Premier Goldfish Breeding Grounds
Banana Leaf Magic: Unwrapping Sri Lankan Home Cooking at “Ruvani” in Downtown Kumamoto
See Adorable Jumping Gobies at Arao’s Tidal Flat & Wetland Center
Mogushi Beach: Summertime in Kumamoto’s Secluded Coastal Paradise
Amakusa Five Bridges Cruise: A Serene Journey Through the Islands
E-Bike Pedalling Through Takamori Town – Guide to ‘Guruchari’ Rental Service
The Horse Tradition: The Fascinating Tale Behind Kumamoto’s Basashi Culture
