In this article, we will introduce 10 highly recommended tourist spots in Kumamoto Prefecture. Read on and discover the best places for your unforgettable experience in Japan.
Kumamoto Prefecture, located in the central part of Kyushu, Japan, is known for its Kumamon mascot and Mount Aso.
Kumamon is the official mascot of Kumamoto Prefecture, very popular both in Japan and abroad.
This mascot is depicted as a cute black bear with red cheeks and was first introduced in 2010 to promote the Kumamoto area.
Kumamon is widely recognized for its adorable appearance and various promotional activities involving Kumamon, such as merchandise and special events. This has made Kumamon a symbol of pride for the people of Kumamoto.
Meanwhile, Mount Aso is one of the largest and most active volcanoes in Japan, located in the Aso area of Kumamoto Prefecture.
This mountain is a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
However, aside from visiting these two iconic Kumamoto landmarks, you can also explore other attractions.
Here are 10 must-visit tourist spots when you go to Japan, especially in Kumamoto Prefecture.
1. Mitsui Greenland Amusement Park
Mitsui Greenland Amusement Park (グリーンランド) in Arao City is the largest amusement park in Kumamoto Prefecture.
This park offers various attractions for families as well as thrilling rides for adrenaline seekers.
You can enjoy the view from the Ferris wheel, relax on the cable car, or get your heart racing on the roller coaster and free-fall rides.
With the most attractions in Japan, it’s best to buy a one-day pass so you can enjoy everything!
■ Address: Midorigaoka, Arao City, Kumamoto Prefecture
■ Hours: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (9:30 AM–8:00 PM during illumination events)
2. Kurokawa Onsen
Kurokawa Onsen (黒川温泉) is a charming hot spring town in Minamioguni City, Aso District. Once known as a secret onsen,
This place is surrounded by lush forests and offers a calming traditional bathing experience.
One of its unique attractions is the “pass hopping onsen,” which allows you to try three hot springs of your choice. This is a must-visit place when in Kumamoto!
■ Address: Manganji, Minamioguni City, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture
■ Hours: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
3. Rakuno Mother’s Aso Milk Farm
Rakuno Mother’s Aso Milk Farm (らくのうマザーズ阿蘇ミルク牧場) is an educational farm in Aso District.
Here, you can try making bread, milk, and sausages directly.
There are also activities like milking cows and interacting with animals such as goats, chickens, and ducks at the farm plaza.
Visitors can even take a tour of the milk factory. This place is perfect for families and nature lovers.
■ Address: 3944-1 Kawahara, Nishihara Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture
■ Hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
4. Kikuchi Gorge
Kikuchi Gorge (菊池渓谷) is a natural tourist spot within Aso-Kuju National Park (阿蘇くじゅう国立公園).
Famous for its clear flowing waters, dense forests, and sunlight filtering through the leaves, this place offers a peaceful atmosphere to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Each season brings its own charm—fresh air in the summer and colorful foliage in the fall. This place is perfect for a leisurely walk while enjoying the beauty of nature.
■ Address: Hara, Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture
■ Hours: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (Closed December–March)
5. Suizenji Jojuen Garden
Suizenji Jojuen Garden, located in Kumamoto City, was built by the Hosokawa clan during the Edo period and is one of the most famous feudal gardens in Kyushu.
The garden is centered around a large pond surrounded by stone lanterns, pine trees, and artificial hills, creating a peaceful atmosphere for a leisurely stroll.
Inside the park, there is a tea house where you can enjoy Japanese sweets while admiring the garden views. It is easily accessible, just a short tram ride from Kumamoto Station.
■ Address: 8-1 Suizenji Koen, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture
■ Hours: 9:00 AM–10:00 PM
Read:
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6. Kumamon Square
When thinking of Kumamoto, the cute mascot Kumamon surely comes to mind! Kumamon Square (くまモンスクエア) is the official activity center of Kumamon.
Here, you can visit Kumamon’s office, see exclusive Kumamon decorations, purchase limited-edition merchandise, and enjoy the Kumamon-themed cafe menu.
■ Address: 1st Floor Tetria Kumamoto Building, 8-2 Tetorihonmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture
■ Hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
7. Amakusa Dolphin Center
Kumamoto is not just about mountains—you can also enjoy marine experiences! One of the favorite activities is watching dolphins.
Amakusa Dolphin Center (天草市イルカセンター) offers dolphin watching tours year-round.
Ride a boat, feel the sea breeze, and watch dolphins swimming and jumping alongside the boat—a truly unforgettable experience!
■ Address: 4689-20 Itsuwa-machi, Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture
■ Hours: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (until 5:00 PM in winter)
8. Kumamoto Castle
A trip to Kumamoto would not be complete without visiting Kumamoto Castle, one of the three most famous castles in Japan along with Osaka Castle and Nagoya Castle.
Built by castle architect Kato Kiyomasa, Kumamoto Castle is known for its sturdy stone walls, three castle towers, and 29 gates. This castle is a symbol of Kumamoto’s rich history—don’t miss it!
■ Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture
■ Hours: 8:30 AM–6:00 PM (March–November) / 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (December–February)
9. Daikanbo Lookout
Mount Aso is one of the most famous natural landmarks in Kumamoto and is one of the largest active volcanoes in Japan.
Daikanbo (大観峰) is the highest peak among the outer Aso mountains and offers spectacular panoramic views.
From Daikanbo Peak, you can see the Five Peaks of Aso and the surrounding valleys. Even the journey from the parking area to the peak offers beautiful views.
■ Address: 2090-8 Yamada, Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture
■ Hours: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
10. Nabegataki Waterfall
Nabegataki Waterfall (鍋ヶ滝) in Oguni City is one of Kumamoto’s natural landmarks. This waterfall stretches about 20 meters and forms a beautiful curtain of water.
The unique feature of this attraction is that you can walk behind the waterfall to enjoy the view from a different perspective—a memorable experience for nature lovers.
■ Address: Oguni City, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture
■ Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
In addition to the ten tourist spots above, Kumamoto Prefecture also has many other interesting destinations to explore, such as Kusasenrigahama and Mount Aso.
If you’re excited, let’s start planning your fun trip to various tourist spots in Kumamoto now!
