Kumamoto – Castle Town with Samurai Spirit

#kumamoto – Castle
Kumamoto – Castle Town with Samurai Spirit

Location:
Kumamoto is the capital city of Kumamoto Prefecture, located in central Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island.

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Top Attractions:

1. Kumamoto Castle (熊本城):
• One of Japan’s most impressive and well-fortified castles.
• Originally built in the early 1600s.
• Severely damaged in the 2016 earthquakes, but much of it has been restored and is open to the public again.
• Famous for its imposing stone walls and samurai history.

2. Suizenji Jojuen Garden (水前寺成趣園):
• A traditional Japanese garden that represents the Tokaido road (the old route from Kyoto to Tokyo).
• Features a miniature Mt. Fuji and beautiful seasonal flowers.

3. Mount Aso (阿蘇山):
• Located just outside Kumamoto City.
• One of the world’s largest active volcanoes.
• You can hike or drive up to its crater (when it’s safe) and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding caldera.

4. Sakuranobaba Josaien:
• A cultural complex near Kumamoto Castle with samurai-themed shops, food stalls, and traditional crafts.

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Cultural Highlights:
• Kumamon:
Kumamoto’s beloved black bear mascot. You’ll see him everywhere — from trains to snacks to souvenirs!
• Local Cuisine:
• Basashi (raw horse meat): A local delicacy, often served sashimi-style.
• Karashi Renkon: Lotus root stuffed with mustard and miso.
• Tonkotsu ramen: Rich pork-based ramen with a Kumamoto twist (usually includes garlic oil).
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