On the Southern island of Kyushu,Kumamoto is a city in Japan. It’s mostly rural and there are many beautiful sights to visit. Most people who have heard about the city know about the Kumamoto Bear, a mascot created to draw tourists to the region when the Shinkansen opened in 2010.
This loveable character has been seen countless times, thanks to free licensing rights that mean the image can be used as long as it promotes the area, and in fact the bear is the most popular mascot in Japan.
You can buy all kinds of snacks for souvenirs in the shops. As it is for other cities, everything is impressively packaged and the service is first class, as you would expect.
Mount Kinbo
The mountain in Kumamoto is an extinct caldera volcano; it still smokes but does not erupt. It’s perfect for a day of sightseeing!
Kumamoto Castle
Considered to be one of three most important castles in Japan. In truth, it looks the same as any castle you will find all over Japan.
Food
Kumamoto is famous for ramen. It’s not as greasy as Hokkaido ramen, and includes sliced garlic and sesame oil.
Getting there
Fly to Fukuoka, the largest city in the region, and travel by bus or train to Kumamoto.
Who is that woman in the pic? Is she Filipino?
Hi Drew, yes. she is Mimi, a Filipino living and working in Ozu.