Strolling through the ancient charm of Kumamoto Castle in the rain

By Bu City x Kumamoto Two Markets a Day Easy Walk Strategy Recommendation! Yufuin's healing animal forest + Kumamoto's classic castle, a must-see for Kyushu's niche and classic!

If you are like me, don’t like rushing when traveling, want to experience the fresh town atmosphere of Yufuin, and don’t want to miss Kumamoto’s most representative building – Kumamoto Castle, then this route is really right! Yufuin Owl Forest is super healing, especially suitable for animal lovers; Kumamoto Castle is not only spectacular on the outside, but also can feel the deep historical atmosphere inside, one day can satisfy the two wishes of sightseeing and entertainment.

Attraction inventory recommendations:

1. Tombu Yard Forest of Owls
📍Address: 1503-3 Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Oita Prefecture
⏰Opening Hours: Year-round 09:30-17:00 (Mon-Fri) / 09:30-17:30 (Saturday, Sunday)

When you go to Yufuin, there is not only a hot spring street and a hipster handmade grocery store, but the Forest of Owls is my TOP healing recommendation for this trip! The park is not big, but all kinds of owls meet you up close, some of the personalities are super friendly, you can even gently touch them (the staff will be there to guide them). The environment is clean and hygienic, the animals are very energetic - just after walking from the streets of Buyuan, or after eating dessert to "forest" to rest, feel the moment of face to face with cute animals, absolutely stress relief. Special tip: There are not many people entering the park, so you can enjoy it slowly when it is deserted.

2. Kumamoto Castle
📍Address: 860-0002 1-1 Honmaru, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, Kumamoto Prefecture
⏰Opening Hours: September 25th-December 28th 09:00-17:00 (Closed entry at 16:00) / Closed December 29th / December 30th-31st 09:00-17:00 (Closed entry at 16:00)
🎫Tickets: ¥39.0

Kumamoto Castle, as a Kumamoto landmark, is historically controlled, both exterior and interior. The castle tower is newly rebuilt, but each floor has many display boards, introducing history and stories from the Warring States period. The surrounding parks are open and great for taking pictures. It is recommended to reserve 2 hours to enjoy. Tickets are on sale, so it is very convenient to buy tickets on site. Tip: There are restaurants and shopping areas outside the city where you can eat authentic Kumamoto ramen on the way!

Tips + Real Feelings Supplement:
- Yufuin Owl's Forest is an indoor activity that can be arranged in bad weather, and is very suitable for parents and friends.
- Remember to check the opening hours before entering Kumamoto Castle, especially if there are closed days at the end of the year.
- It is recommended to go to Kumamoto Castle after the end of the trip from Fuin.

Transportation Tips/Food Recommendations:
- About 10 minutes walk from Fuin Station to the "Owl Forest", after strolling you can directly explore Yufuin Onsen Street.
- There are many izakayas and ramen shops near Kumamoto Castle, such as the "Kurotei Ramen" which is excellent, with a super rich pork broth.
- Yufuin, Kumamoto transportation can choose JR Kyushu Railway, more frequent. If you don't want to be in a hurry, it is recommended to leave early.

Traveling to Kyushu not only has hot springs and castles, but also cute healing animals to accompany you! If you want to take pictures or experience the slow life of the town firsthand, this route can really try!

#Kumamoto Castle #Yufuin #Owl Forest #Kyushu Free Trip #Travel Recommendation