See, Savor & Stroll KUMAMOTO
Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture is a place where time seems to stand still, with a beauty reminiscent of a scene from a film by Makoto Shinkai. Here, your heart will be stirred by the grandeur of nature, then calmed by the serene surroundings.
- Kkujun is a travel vlogger who seeks his own path and pace through slow travel. Since parting ways with his office job in 2023, he’s traveled around Japan, Vietnam and Taiwan on a non-motorized kick scooter he affectionately calls “Ssingssingi.”
Yokobachi
For an authentic taste of Kumamoto’s local dining scene, Yokobachi is a perfect choice. This traditional izakaya-style establishment captivates both locals and travelers with its warm, inviting wooden interior and lively atmosphere. Savor fresh seafood and Kumamoto specialties, with the horse meat sashimi being a particular highlight. Pair your selection of exquisitely prepared Japanese otsumami (small snacks) with a local sake for a truly immersive culinary experience.
Mount Aso’s Nakadake Crater
In the center of Mt. Aso’s caldera, considered one of the world’s largest, is the volcanic Nakadake crater—a place where you can put your finger on the pulse of nature. The crater can be easily reached by vehicle. The area around the crater offers a variety of vantage points for experiencing nature at its most vivid and magnificent. The smell of sulfur and steam rising from inside the crater reminds you that you’re standing on an active volcano. Before you visit, make sure to check access to the crater, which can be closed depending on the weather and volcanic activity.
Daikanbo Lookout
Daikanbo Lookout is the spot for getting a panoramic view of the Aso region. It’s easy to reach, about 20 minutes by car from the city of Aso. The drive itself serves as a great chance to take in the beauty of nature. Upon arriving at the lookout, gaze out upon the endless fields spreading across the caldera. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Kumamoto Plain. The setting sun casts a golden glow across the fields, a highlight you won’t want to miss.
Hells of Beppu
The Hells of Beppu are a series of seven hot springs referred to as jigoku (hell) in the Beppu area, each with a unique appeal. Roam through these “hells” to experience an ethereal
landscape forged by nature. Each hot spring is sure to leave a lasting impression: Umi Jigoku (“Sea Hell”) simmers with a blue color, Chinoike Jigoku (“Blood Pond Hell”) is colored red. There are also foot baths in the area for soaking your weary feet after taking in Beppu’s rich hot spring culture.
Jigoku Mushi Kobo Kannawa
Beppu’s jigoku mushi or “hell-steaming” is a distinctive culinary technique that takes advantage of the hot springs in the area. Those visiting the establishment Jigoku Mushi Kobo Kannawa can try various fresh ingredients, including
vegetables and seafood, steamed in the hot springs as a great way to accentuate their flavor. Visitors have the added
pleasure of experiencing the whole process amid plumes of rising steam.
Kokura Castle
Kokura Castle is a historical site in the city of Kitakyushu, in Japan’s Fukuoka Prefecture. Drop by this picturesque castle to discover traces of the Edo period. Built in the 17th century, this castle elegantly combines whitewashed walls with black rooftops. The interior of the castle serves as a museum, featuring a rich assortment of informative exhibits about the region’s history and culture. The castle is surrounded by a moat and Japanese-style gardens that are an excellent place for a leisurely stroll.
Moji Port
Mojiko (Moji Port) is located in the northern part of Kitakyushu City. The area around the port has become especially popular because of the retro vibe that harks back to Japan’s early modern history. The buildings of the port, which was a flourishing center of trade and commerce in the early 20th century, have been preserved, sending visitors on a nostalgic trip to the past. The famed landmark of Mojiko Station and the other buildings along the shore provide the ideal backdrop for a selfie. Souvenir shops and restaurants offering a taste of fresh fish are located near the port, making this a perfect destination for a delightful stroll and some delicious bites.
Kanmon Bridge
The Kanmon Bridge is an iconic bridge connecting Japan’s major islands of Honshu and Kyushu. The bridge is a grand structure, reaching 1,068m across the waves of the open ocean to connect Kitakyushu, a city in Fukuoka Prefecture; and Shimonoseki, a city in Yamaguchi Prefecture. In the daytime, the blue sky kisses the ocean below. At night, the bridge lights up, setting a more intimate mood. Near the bridge are observation decks and trails offering a closer look at the Kanmon Straits, making this a popular spot for tourists. Pedestrians and cyclists can have the opportunity of crossing the straits underwater via the Kanmon Tunnel.
- Korean Air operates direct flights between Incheon and Kumamoto 3 times a week.
