What kind of place is Kumamoto? Access information and recommended tourist spots
In recent years, have you heard of Kumamoto Prefecture, where the number of international tourists has been rapidly increasing? Even if you’re not familiar with it, many of you might know the popular Kumamoto character “Kumamon.”
Kumamoto is filled with attractions, such as the vast nature of Aso, Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s three famous castles, and the relaxing hot spring town of Kurokawa Onsen.
This time, we will introduce 3 recommended tourist spots and access information to help you enjoy your visit to Kumamoto even more comfortably. Especially if you use a rental car, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the charm of Kumamoto, so be sure to refer to this guide!
How do you get to Aso Kumamoto Airport?
Aso Kumamoto Airport is not only accessible from within Japan but also offers direct flights from Korea (Seoul, Busan), Taiwan (Taipei, Kaohsiung), and Hong Kong, making it convenient to access from East Asia.
Here are approximate travel times from each city:
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From Seoul (Incheon International Airport): About 1 hour 30 minutes
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From Busan (Gimhae International Airport): About 1 hour 30 minutes
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From Taipei (Taoyuan International Airport): About 2 hours 15 minutes
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From Kaohsiung (Kaohsiung International Airport): About 2 hours 40 minutes
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From Hong Kong (Hong Kong International Airport): About 3 hours 30 minutes
Getting from the airport to the city and tourist spots
You can get from Aso Kumamoto Airport to Kumamoto city or major tourist spots by rental car, bus, or taxi. Especially with a rental car, you can smoothly access natural areas like Aso and Kurokawa Onsen.
Approximate travel times by car from major locations are as follows:
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From Kumamoto Station: About 45 minutes
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From Aso Station: About 40 minutes
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From Kurokawa Onsen: About 80 minutes
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From Yamada Onsen: About 50 minutes
For more details, please check here.
Aso Kumamoto Airport
Address: 1802-2 Kotani, Mashiki Town, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto Prefecture 861-2204, Japan
Phone Number: +81 96-232-2311
Renting a car is convenient for sightseeing in Kumamoto!
Kumamoto Prefecture has various tourist spots. While buses and trains are available, their service areas and operating hours are limited, so renting a car is highly recommended!
🚗 Payke offers coupons for Nippon Rent-A-Car, so if you’re looking to rent a car at a great price, be sure to take advantage of them!
3 Recommended Spots to Visit by Rental Car
・Kumamoto Castle
When it comes to the symbol of Kumamoto Prefecture, Kumamoto Castle is undoubtedly the first thing that comes to mind. Built by the samurai Kato Kiyomasa in 1607, using the most advanced techniques and labor of the time, it has a history of over 400 years. Unfortunately, it was damaged during the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, with parts of the stone walls and the main keep (the highest tower of the castle) collapsing. However, it was completely restored in March 2021. Surrounding Kumamoto Castle, you’ll find a large shopping area, so you can also enjoy shopping while visiting the castle.
Kumamoto Castle
Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Chūō Ward, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
Admission Fees:
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High school students and older: 800 yen
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Elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen
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Preschool children: Free
Website: Kumamoto Castle Official Website
・Aso
If you’re looking to relax and enjoy nature during your trip to Kumamoto, make sure to head towards the Aso area by car. Aso is home to majestic mountains, including Aso Mountain, and expansive grasslands. You can enjoy delicious dishes made from locally raised cows, horses, and vegetables. There are also activities like paragliding and hot air ballooning to enjoy. The area offers campsites and hot springs that take full advantage of its rich nature, making it a great spot for families to enjoy.
Aso City
・Kurokawa Onsen
If you want to enjoy a relaxing hot spring experience in Kumamoto, make sure to visit Kurokawa Onsen. Kurokawa Onsen is one of the most famous hot spring destinations in Japan. Over 20 hot spring ryokan (traditional inns) line the large river valley. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can purchase a “Toyu Tegata” (bath ticket) and enjoy 27 outdoor baths and restaurants on a day trip. It’s a great spot to experience a retro atmosphere, with traditional Japanese buildings that bring a sense of nostalgia.
Kurokawa Onsen
Address: 6594-3 Manganji, Minamioguni Town, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture
Contact: Kurokawa Onsen Tourist Ryokan Cooperative Information Center
Phone: +81 967-44-0076
Website: Kurokawa Onsen Official Website
Summary
Kumamoto Prefecture is a tourist destination full of charm, offering beautiful nature, historical sites, and relaxing hot springs, all with convenient access from overseas. In addition to the recommended spots introduced in this article, there are still many more wonderful places to explore in Kumamoto. If you want to enjoy your trip even more, be sure to check out the official Kumamoto tourism website!
After enjoying the tourist spots in Kumamoto, choosing souvenirs is one of the fun parts of the trip. At Aso Kumamoto Airport, you can easily purchase local specialties and popular souvenirs. If you’re unsure what to buy at the airport, refer to the upcoming article “Available at Aso Kumamoto Airport! 10 Popular Souvenirs” for ideas and find the perfect souvenir!