Things to do in Kumamoto
Kumamoto Castle was badly damaged in the 2016 earthquakes and has been under repair ever since; the keep has reopened and the restoration work itself is part of what you see. Mt. Aso, an hour away, has one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world and access to the crater depends entirely on the day's gas readings.
2 places in Kumamoto, covering temples & shrines, nature & parks — each with opening hours, directions from the nearest station, and the official site.
All places
Kumamoto Castle
Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan's most impressive feudal castles, known for its complex defensive stone walls and striking black architecture. Severely damaged in the 2016 earthquake, it has been undergoing restoration as a symbol of the city's resilience.
Mt. Aso
Mt. Aso is one of the world's largest volcanic calderas, featuring an active crater that puffs volcanic smoke. The surrounding grasslands offer dramatic landscapes, and the area has been inhabited for centuries despite the volcanic activity.
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