The energy of nature
Kumamoto Prefecture is overflowing with abundance.
Breathtaking scenery woven by nature, and a legacy of wisdom left behind by our ancestors.
The people you encounter while seeking the exquisite cuisine nurtured in this land.
The connections that were born from such scenery and encounters
They inspire us and offer us new and exciting experiences.
Mount Aso, the Ariake Sea, and other natural wonders created by the Earth can be found everywhere.
The natural beauty, which varies so dramatically from the north to the south of the prefecture, is breathtakingly magnificent.
Aso Nakadake Crater
Volcanoes that evoke a sense of the Earth's birth are truly dynamic. Mount Aso is still active, and you can see its crater (4km in circumference) emitting white plumes of smoke up close. The sight of emerald green hot springs bubbling up in the crater, surrounded by fierce, rugged lava, is truly mystical and sure to thrill you.
*Entry to the mountain is prohibited during periods of active volcanic activity.
Nabegataki Falls, with a drop of approximately 10 meters and a width of approximately 20 meters, is also known as Urami Falls (Waterfall Seen from Behind). This is because there is a naturally formed space behind the waterfall, allowing you to view it from directly behind. This space was created by a massive eruption of Mount Aso approximately 90,000 years ago. Take the time to fully experience the natural beauty of this formation, created by the pyroclastic flow.
If you go to the sea, you can go dolphin watching; if you go to the mountains or land, you can go rafting or horseback riding,
There are plenty of fascinating activities to enjoy. Cycling, which can be easily enjoyed, is also a popular choice.
"Amakusa Dolphin Watching Experience"
While it might seem difficult to encounter wild dolphins, the probability of seeing bottlenose dolphins swimming around Amakusa Shimoshima is a surprising 99.9%! During a roughly one-hour cruise from the port, you can sometimes see hundreds of dolphins. You can see them regardless of the season, so let's set sail on the open sea!
"Gourmet Cycling: Eating and Cycling"
"Gourmet Cycling Tabecoggi" has been a hugely popular activity since its debut in 2018! There are two courses, allowing you to cycle through the natural beauty of Aso while visiting local restaurants. You might discover things you wouldn't normally notice when traveling by car, and have some delightful interactions with the locals! Another great feature is that you can exchange tickets for gourmet food at each spot.
The ethnic culture and history cultivated over many years, and the World Heritage sites
Let's explore the historical sites of Amakusa, such as the Christian ruins, and experience firsthand what life was like back then.
Sakitsu Church is located in a small fishing village on Amakusa Shimoshima Island. This site was registered as a World Heritage Site in July 2018 as part of the "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region and Amakusa Islands." The imposing Gothic-style church, with a cross atop its spire, is also known as the "Cathedral of the Sea." The church, which suddenly appears amidst the houses of the fishing village, evokes a strange sense of nostalgia.
Kumamoto Castle, a magnificent castle built by Kato Kiyomasa, boasts a history of over 400 years. Located in the heart of Kumamoto City, the castle tower offers panoramic views of the city. The castle grounds are vast and full of attractions, so much so that it would take a full day to explore them all. Although it was damaged in the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake and underwent restoration work, the interior of the castle tower reopened to the public on April 26th (Monday). Be sure to visit this magnificent castle that has risen again after the earthquake.
There are many high-quality hot springs that have been loved for generations. There are also secluded hot spring villages located at the top of mountain paths,
It boasts a variety of attractions, including a hot spring bath with a spectacular panoramic view overlooking the sea.
Kurokawa Onsen
Kurokawa Onsen is a tranquil hot spring resort blessed by the bounty of the surrounding mountains. With a bathing pass in hand, you can stroll around and enjoy the open-air baths. At night, the "Yuakari" (hot spring lights) event begins, warmly illuminating the scenery. Held from late December to the end of May, the bamboo lanterns create a magical scene. Enjoy a stroll through the hot spring town while feeling the pleasant light.
Tsuetate Onsen, also known as the "inner sanctuary of Kyushu," is a hot spring town renowned for its therapeutic bathing. The retro Showa-era townscape, with steam rising from various points, makes you feel as if you've traveled back in time. The "Carp Streamer Festival," held annually from April 1st to May 6th, is particularly impressive. Relax and enjoy the famous hot springs while watching hundreds of carp streamers fluttering in the wind.
Kumamoto is a region brimming with the bounty of both the sea and the mountains. Its climate, with its significant temperature differences, fosters delicious food.
In addition to local cuisine, we also recommend the fresh fruits and local ramen.
"Horse sashimi"
The history of horse meat cuisine, a traditional food of Kumamoto, is said to span over 400 years. While there are many dishes using horse meat, such as steak and shabu-shabu, the one you absolutely must try is "basashi" (raw horse meat sashimi). You can enjoy various cuts of horse meat, such as shoulder loin and belly, which is so deeply rooted in the region that you can even find it in supermarkets—something unique to Kumamoto Prefecture. Enjoy the fresh horse meat that only locals can offer.
その地方が育んできた味を知るには、まずは汁物を召し上がれ。だごは熊本弁でだんこのこと。地元産の季節野菜やお肉をたっぷり入れ、小麦粉で練った一口サイズの平たい団子を加えるのが特徴的です。阿蘇地方は味噌汁風で根菜類やしいたけなど、有明海沿岸地方はすまし汁風で貝類や鶏肉と、具材も地域の特色が感じられます。
