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 or after some souvenirs: the Sakuranokouji historical castle town area, features historically styled shops and restaurants offering a wide range of local Kumamoto souvenirs and delicacies. Next to this is the Wakuwaku-Za, where visitors can experience some of Kumamoto’s special history and culture in a variety of languages and with hands-on, interactive exhibits. If you are not taking a guided tour it’s a good idea to visit Wakuwakuza before you head up to the castle as it will give you a lot of background information on the history of the castle. A tourism information desk is also located within Jousaien, with information available in English and a number of other languages as well.
A free shuttle bus runs between Jousaien and Kumamoto Castle’s “Hohoategomon Gate.” It runs every 7 minutes and only takes 3 minutes. To use the service wait at the Jousaien bus stop or the Hohotaegomon Gate bus stop.
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