Takachiho is not only famous for its gorge, it is also the creator of ‘Nagashi Soumen’ – ‘flowing noodles’ just about the most fun way to eat noodles ever! This simple and refreshing summer dish is made of super thin wheat flour noodles, plunged into ice cold water eaten with a very tasty dipping sauce […]
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The waters of Kikuchi Onsen hotspring resort are famed for their healing and beautifying properties. Surprisingly the onsen, also known as Waifu Onsen, was only discovered 60 years ago, the local myth states that a wise, old man called Mr Murakami was told the location of the hot spring by a white dragon in a dream. The hot springs are mainly situated in
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One of the most popular activities to do in Takachiho Gorge is to rent out a rowing boat and experience the gorge from the water. Boats cost 4,000 or 5,000 Yen and seat 3 people or 4 if there is a small child, the boats are rented out for 30 minutes, which is just long enough to row to the
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Sakuranobaba Jousaien This recently opened Edo style tourist spot close to the castle is based on a facsimile of a traditional castle town area. (Unfortunately Kumamoto lost most of its traditional buildings during the Seinan Civil War just after the Meiji Restoration.) The area is very touristy but quite nicely done and worth popping in if you are hungry
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Takachiho Gorge Tour Takachiho Gorge Tour Takachiho Gorge is a must see Kyushu location, but it is not easy to get to. This tour is a great solution, taking you on a scenic route through the Aso caldera to Takachiho Gorge. Arriving in the morning you can enjoy the gorge at its quietest and most scenic
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The World Heritage Manda Pit, also known as the Manda Kou in Japanese, is part of the Miike Coal Mine, which was once the largest coal mine in Japan. The mine played a huge role in enabling Japan’s modernisation during the Meiji era and war years, producing 10% of Japan’s coal. The pit, built using British
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Samurai Swords Tour – Visit the forge & dojo of Matsunaga sensei in Arao Samurai Swords Tour – Half day or Full day The Samurai Swords Tour; a truly unforgettable experience! The rare chance to talk to and watch a venerated, award winning swordsmith at work, enjoy a display of sword cutting skills and then
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Located at Kusasenri, Mount Aso’s vast green plateau on top of the mountains. The Aso Volcano Museum is a 3 storey concrete building with views of the steaming crater of Nakadake Volcano in the distance. The Aso Volcano Museum consists of displays relating to the formation of the Aso volcanos and its caldera, and the
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The Kumamoto Zoo and Botanical Gardens are situated on the eastern edge of the city on the edge of the beautiful Ezu Lake. If you are travelling with children or just need a break from castles and temples the Zoo is sure to keep everyone amused and at only 300 Yen per adult and 100 Yen for school age
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Rent a Bicycle What better way to explore the city and beyond than by renting a bicycle for a day. Kumamoto City is a great place to cycle around with wide pavements and very few slopes. You can reach Suizenji Park or Tatsuda Nature Park from the city center within a leisurely 30 minute bike ride or head
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