Beautiful place and you can take time to just pause and breathe in the fresh air. There paragliding too.

Very windy here, great view though! Can’t believe volcano eruption is so powerful you can see the whole bowl shaped leveling caused by it

Most magnificent view in Kumamoto prefecture. I visited lots of national parks all over the world but this view is definitely comparable to them. If you come here in the early morning, you can enjoy a different atmosphere which I also liked.

The view from there and the driving way was just amazing! Super windy so prepare a but warmer clothes Parking was free It seemed some (or entire) area closes at 17:00

Beautiful natural scene . Highly recommend

Went for a stop on the way from Beppu to Kumamoto. Crowded during the weekends. Beautiful scenery on clear, sunny days. Must try the soft cream inside the store.

Worlds’ second largest caldera which was emerged due to the eruption of mount Aso (Volcano) 300,000years ago. 25km long and 18km wide.

(Translated by Google) You can easily climb to the top of the mountain, and on days when the air is clear, you can see many famous mountains. I was in the middle of changing Kyushu 100 Famous Mountains, but now I've finished refilling Kyushu 100 Famous Mountains (all old and new Kyushu 100 Famous Mountains?) on YAMAP.I'm overwhelmed with emotion №112 /112 I thought I would be able to complete the 100 famous mountains at the beginning of the year, but I did my best since around November, including changing back up, and at the end of the year I had a last spurt from the 27th, and with the cold wave coming, I had to spend unnecessary money on things like buying tire chains, but this year I did it. I was able to finish it on the last day of 🙌 From now on, I will refrain from visiting Kyushu's 100 Famous Mountains for the third time. There are many places I can't reach, so I'm tired so I'll give up.) However, while attacking my favorite 100 famous mountains as I feel like, I would like to conserve my physical strength and strength by attacking the famous mountains in Fukuoka, and attack the 100 famous mountains in China and Shikoku while attacking the 100 and 200 famous mountains in Japan. By the way, I have no intention of completing the climb (lol) 1st ascent record I think I started climbing Kyushu's 100 Famous Mountains from this mountain when I entered the workforce. At that time, I was exhausted after just climbing one mountain, but in about 8 years I conquered the 100 famous mountains in Kyushu, and now I have the strength to climb up to +1. This is a commemorative mountain. It is believed that he reached the summit around 2013. I attacked from the Yukakeike trailhead, and on the way back I felt unsatisfied, so I changed the route, but that became my enemy and I was tired. 2nd ascent record 20220701 I climbed the mountain from Tawarayama Pass Observation Deck and made the round trip in 1 hour and 45 minutes. 3rd ascent record 20241231 summit I wanted to quickly complete the list of 100 famous mountains in Kyushu, so I climbed the mountain from the Tawarayama Pass Observation Deck and made the round trip in 1 hour and 30 minutes. There was an older woman who was doing a trail run, so when I was going down the mountain, I ran because I was so happy to have climbed the 100 famous mountains. The steep climbs and slippery slopes at the beginning and end are tiring. You can reach the trailhead by regular car. It takes about 1 hour to get there from the expressway interchange, so transportation is convenient. There is also a restaurant near the trailhead. The scenery is also spectacular along the way. Therefore, it is a recommended mountain. The downside is that the slopes of the mountain trail are made of Aso's unique black soil, which can be extremely slippery for several days after the rain. I met two groups of climbers and I think it's a popular mountain. (Original) 容易に山頂に立つことができ、大気が澄んだ日には著名な山の多くを眺望できる。 九州100名山おかわり中であったが、YAMAPでの九州100名山（九州100名山新旧全て？）おかわり終了 感無量№112 /112 100名山完登は、年明けと思っていたが11月頃からおかわりも含め粛々と頑張り、年末は27日からラストスパートし、寒波が来る中、タイヤのチェーン購入等不要なお金もかかりましたが、今年の最終日に終わることができました🙌 今後は3度目の九州100名山おかわりはやめときます（日本100名山と比べ九州100名山は全てが人気の山でない上、登山口に行くまでの道が水害等で壊れかけているので、登山口にたどり着けない箇所もボチボチあるので、気疲れするので断念します） しかし、お気に入りの100名山は気が向くまま攻めながら、福岡の著名な山を攻め体力と筋力を温存し、日本100、200名山を攻めながら、中国、四国100名山を攻めたいと思います。ちなみに、完登するつもりはございません(笑) 1回目登頂記録 社会人となりこの山から九州100名山を登り始めたと思う。あの当時は一山登っただけで疲れ切っていたが、約8年で九州100名山を制覇し、今では、力を持て余し＋1座まで攻めるようになった記念の山です。 2013年頃に登頂したと思われる。 揺ケ池登山口から攻めて、帰りは物足りなさからルートを変えたが、それが仇となり疲れた。 2回目登頂記録 20220701俵山峠展望所から登頂し、1時間45分で往復しました。 3回目登頂記録 20241231登頂 ささっと九州100名山おかわり達成したかったので、俵山峠展望所から登頂し、1時間30分で往復しました。 トレランする年配の女性の人がいたので、下山時は、百名山登頂記録の嬉しさから（嘘）走っちゃいました。 最初と後半の急登と滑りやすい法面には疲れます。 登山口まで普通車で来れます。 高速インターから約1時間で到着でき、交通の便良し。 登山口近くは食堂もあります。 景色も道中から絶景です。 よってお勧めの山です。 悪い点は、登山道の斜面は阿蘇独特の黒土で雨上がりから数日間は、非常に滑りやすい。 2組の登山者に会い、人気の山と思います。

(Translated by Google) It was a nice mountain and easy to walk on. I think you can make the round trip in 3 hours. (Original) 歩きやすくていい山でした 3時間あれば往復できると思います

(Translated by Google) It's an easy climb and the view is beautiful. (Original) 登りやすいです。景色も綺麗🤩

(Translated by Google) It took about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the summit from Tawarayama Observatory. Start from the observation deck and climb a somewhat steep slope for about 20 minutes. Then, we go on a mountain road along a ridge, and then we go through a forest on a rather steep slope.(There is a detour that will join us later.)We continue on a somewhat flat mountain road, and there is another steep slope waiting for us before the summit. Please move slowly as it can be quite slippery. After clearing that slope There are signs for the summit and alternative routes. Approximately 200 meters from that junction There is a mountain peak. There are two benches at the top of the mountain. Therefore, climbers Have a meal, take a rest, etc. It was cloudy that day, so the scenery wasn't very good, but If it's a clear day, you can see a pretty nice view. (Original) 俵山展望所から約1時間30分程で山頂へ到達しました。展望所からスタートしてしばらくやや急斜面を20分位登ります。それから尾根傳な山道を行きますとまたまた　やや急斜面の森林の中を進みます（迂回路があり、後に合流します。）ややフラットな山道を進みます、山頂前にもう一度　急斜面が待ち受けてます、足運びをゆっくりとされて下さい　結構　滑りますので、。その斜面をクリアしましたら 山頂と別のルートの標識があります。 その分岐点から約200メートル先に 山頂があります。 山頂にはベンチが2つあり そこで、登山者の方は 食事されたりゆっくり休憩されたり、、。 当日は曇り空でしたので景観があまり良くありませんでしたが、 晴天なら　かなり良い景観がみられるそうです。

(Translated by Google) I climbed from the Tawarayama Pass Observatory parking lot. It takes 90 minutes to reach the top. Along the way, beautiful flowers were blooming. It rained yesterday, making the trail difficult to climb, so we recommend climbing on a sunny day. (Original) 俵山峠展望所駐車場から登りました。頂上までの時間は90分です。 途中、綺麗な花が咲いていました。 昨日が雨だったため、登山道が滑り登りにくかったので、晴れが続く日の登山をお勧めします。

(Translated by Google) The summit is wide and allows groups to take a break while enjoying the view. From Tawarayama Pass, it is a 90 minute walk to the summit. There are almost no dangerous places, so it's perfect for excursions for elementary school students. For young children, double or triple the time. Some of the wooden stairs are broken, but as long as you watch your step, you should be fine. The ground is slippery, so it is not recommended in rainy weather. (Original) 山頂は広く、展望を楽しみながら、団体でも休憩できます。俵山峠から、山頂まで徒歩90分。危険なところはほとんどなく、小学生ぐらいの遠足にちょうどいい。幼児の場合、タイム2〜3倍で計算を。木の階段が一部壊れていますが、足元に注意すれば、問題ないでしょう。滑りやすい土なので、雨天時はおすすめしません。

(Translated by Google) From Tawarayama Observatory, you can see the entire Aso region, including the Aso Five Peaks, the Northern and Southern Outer Rims, and the Aso Valley. From here, there's a hiking trail leading to the summit of Tawarayama, which has quite a few ups and downs before eventually becoming a gentle grassy trail that leads to the summit. The peak straddles the villages of Nishihara and Minamiaso, reaching an elevation of 1,095m. It's part of the Aso outer rim, and apparently got its name from the way it resembles a rice bale when viewed from Minamiaso village. This was before the Kumamoto earthquake. (Original) 俵山展望所からは阿蘇五岳、北外輪山、南外輪山、阿蘇谷、など阿蘇全体を眺めることができます。ここから俵山山頂に向かう登山道があり結構なアップダウンで最後は緩やかな草原の登山道となり山頂に到着します 山頂は西原村と南阿蘇村にまたがる、標高1095ｍの山です。 阿蘇外輪山の一部で、南阿蘇村側から見ると、米俵のように見えることからその名前がついたようです。熊本地震の前の話です。

Overall clean Michi-no-eki, surprisingly good parking, quiet at night. Wonderful ice cream, coffee, cappuccino, and local market right across the street. Great base station for hiking Mt Kuju etc... And if it's too busy there's also a PS Park Sleep across the street.

There are many kinds of souvenirs. The building is stylish. A mysterious and cool architecture. A bus stop. Please go and check it out!

It’s a lesser-known town and an even lesser-known building in the town’s resting area. The look of its hollow, upside-down, tetracontagonal frustum glass structure is worth enough for you to stop by, take a snap from the outside, and go inside. You will definitely find something interesting about this place.

A pretty nice rest area if you are driving along the Milk Road. 南小國町 is well known for milk so went to this mills shop with fresh milk and soft ice cream. The dome place stocks local produce and souvenirs, pretty wide selection.

Pleasant experience for those local food n vegetables! We can also enjoy those local food like Soba nearby! Recommend to go

Incredible history with Mount Aso. You can walk behind the water fall because of the pyroclastic flow that occurred more then 150 000 years ago. It's a gem in Kumamoto.

Lots of souvenirs to choose from.The oguni jersey ice cream is a must try it is not sweet like the regular ice cream and very delicious 😋

A Serene Weekend Escape Nestled in the peaceful countryside, Nabegataki Falls offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. I visited on a weekend, making the almost two-hour drive from Kumamoto City—a journey that, though a little long, felt like part of the adventure itself. The winding roads and scenic views along the way gradually melted away any lingering stress, setting the tone for what was to come. Upon arriving, I was immediately taken in by the sense of calm that surrounded the falls. The sound of cascading water mixed gently with the occasional laughter of visitors, both locals and tourists alike, creating a soft, joyful background without overwhelming the tranquility. Despite being a weekend, it wasn't crowded, allowing plenty of quiet moments to just sit, breathe, and soak in the beauty. The falls themselves are magical—you can even walk behind the curtain of water, feeling the cool mist on your skin. It’s an incredibly refreshing experience, almost like stepping into a hidden world. And with an entrance fee of just ¥300, it’s an accessible gem for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat into nature. If you're looking for a spot to unwind and reconnect with nature in Kumamoto Prefecture, Nabegataki Falls is well worth the drive.

Stunning location, apart from a steep decent the entire adventure is well paved and walking sticks are available at the entrance. You can descend into the waterfall area, the scenery is stunning and so picturesque. You can walk behind the waterfall but you may get dropped on. You can paddle your feet in the water at the base of the waterfall or I. The stream that follows. So many hidden beauty spots, even just up the path from the waterfall is a gentle stream with dragonflies dancing above. Well worth a visit and as 2 adults and one child we only paid ¥1200 which is £6. Little shop at the entrance and vending machines offer a choice of refreshments

One of the rare waterfall that you can walk behind the waterfall. A UNESCO site. Highly recommended to visit

Really cool waterfall and easy hike (more like a walk). Plenty of parking spaces, but the road to the area is verrrrry narrow in some sections.

Amazing waterfall. When we visited it was during the week so it wasn't too busy and we could get some good photos. The walk down is not difficult but has many stairs. It takes only about 5 mins to reach the falls from the car park. I would highly recommend visiting!

It’s closing to the Aso area, you could reach it easily when you were driving around Aso. The park is closed after 4:30pm, no highway is nearby, please make sure you have enough time to go if you decide to go after lunch. Quite a lot of visitors even weekdays, the parking was full while we were arrived at 4:00pm. The waterfall was amazing, clean and beautiful. The best time to come at morning during sunny day, you might catch the wonderful light through the trees.

Easy hike down. This waterfall is a must visit, you can trek behind the falls. Follow me on ig @shauneeie for more travel and food!

Worth coming for the little stores that carries crafted goods. There are also stores that sold sake bottles.

This is like Kyoto that hasn’t been discovered yet. A quaint little heritage town that hasn’t gotten its fame, but the simplicity of its style has huge potentials in future growths.

Good for visit 1-2 hours.

It's a small market but has enough shops to look around and shop. It was interesting to watch traditional drum performance which was unexpected. It's quite a long performance but end of that, you can join the session that allows you to participate to play the drum under the performance team's instruction which I missed out.

We went here for the festival with lanterns on November 11, 2023. The evening is not typical on most days and I believe shops are closed at 5-6 pm. However, the street is a heritage area though the town is not well known.

It's not so crowded during weekdays. Most of the shops are selling souvenirs.

Nice old shopping street. Lots of shops selling wooden clog shoes. The Sui cheesecake roll is really good too!

The park is calm and peaceful. I saw a lot of locals jogging here in the morning. I have tried to enter this park at night for the river walk and night view. However, it sad tht i cant find the public car park. Therefore, i left and come back again on the next morning. Then, i find a public car park near the other side of entrance. I have submitted this car park to google map and hopefully they will approve it the soonest possible for others conveniences.

A really tiny park overlooking the River

Good place

(Translated by Google) This park comes out right away when you cross the bridge along the dam wall on the way to Kizan Park. The scenery was really pretty when I went at sunset. I met quite a few locals taking a walk. It's the perfect place to take a walk while gazing at the water. The signature kappa statue was also cute. But maybe because the weather is warmer or because it's by the water, there were so many flies!! There were a lot of them especially around the kappa statue, so I almost got eaten by a bug when I tried to take a certification shot. Kekekekeㅠ I think it will be really pretty when the cherry blossoms bloom. (Original) Kizan park로 가는 길에 댐 벽을 따라 난 다리를 건너가면 금방 나오는 공원입니다. 해질녘에 가서 풍경이 참 예뻤어요. 산책하는 현지분들 꽤 마주쳤습니다. 물멍하면서 걷기 딱 좋은 곳이에요. 시그니쳐 갓파 동상도 귀여웠습니다. 그런데 날씨가 따뜻해져서 그런지 물가라 그런지 날벌레가 너무 많아요!! 특히 갓파 동상 주변에 많아서 인증샷 찍으려다가 벌레 먹을 뻔 했습니닼ㅋㅋㅋ큐ㅠ 벚꽃피면 정말 예쁠 것 같아요.

(Translated by Google) Parks and riverside areas are great places to take a walk. Many people take walks in the morning. On the TV show Bura Tamori, they said that carp fishing is good around here. (Original) 公園や川沿いは散歩をするには良い所。朝は散歩をする方が多いですね。ブラタモリではこの辺りは鯉が良く釣れると言っていました。

(Translated by Google) It looks just like Van Gogh’s starry sky! Don't miss the fireworks display! If possible, it would be best to book a boat dinner trip, which would really give you a better experience. I only took a few photos this time, but I was satisfied and will definitely come again next time! (Original) 像極了梵谷的星空！煙火大會不容錯過！可以的話最好可以預訂船隻晚餐行程，真的會有更好的體驗，這次只有拍幾張了，但我心滿意足，下次一定絕對要再來！

(Translated by Google) Irresponsible people say things like "barbecue fireworks are OK," but that's a big lie. Although it's prohibited, it's just unfortunate people who take advantage of the fact that it's a secluded place. This is a calm park with great scenery and a place where older people can take a leisurely stroll, so I don't want strange people to come. It's also perfect for a picnic with the family. The restrooms are also clean. The only drawback is that there is no parking lot. It might be a good idea to park at Kameyama Park and walk. The road you walk up to is also nice. (Original) 無責任な人が「バーベキュー花火OK」とか言ってるけど大嘘。禁止だけど奥まった場所であるのをいいことに残念な人がやってるだけです。 ここは最高の景色と年輩の方がのんびり散歩するような落ち着いた公園なので変な人は来ないで欲しいです。家族でシートひいてピクニックするのにも最適。お手洗いもまぁ綺麗。 駐車場がないのだけが玉に瑕。亀山公園に停めて歩いてくるのもいいかも。歩いてくるまでの道も素敵。

A beautiful and well-maintained Japanese garden, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The landscape is carefully designed, featuring a large pond, traditional tea houses, and a miniature representation of the Tokaido road, including a small Mt. Fuji. The garden reflects the beauty of Japanese aesthetics, with seasonal flowers adding to its charm. The entrance fee is 400 yen as of March 2025. A great spot to take a relaxing stroll, enjoy and admire the harmony of nature. Enjoy 😎🙏🧘🧘‍♀️

Visited on a rainy morning so enjoyed a quieter atmosphere with fewer tourists. A lovely Japanese garden with two shrines and many stores inside, but not that different from otherJapanese gardens if you had visited them elsewhere.

A very nice and quite beautiful park overall. The scenery is lovely and it’s a pleasant place to walk around, but it does feel a bit small for the 400 yen entrance fee. It’s also a shame to see some buildings inside that are run-down or closed — they clearly have a lot of potential if restored. Still, it’s an enjoyable visit, just not as impressive as it could be.

I went here to relax after a long day. It’s a quiet park with lots of benches around the lake. There aren’t many people around. There’s a shrine inside and some small torii gates. The lake has a lot of fish as well. I saw many cherry trees, so this park must be even more beautiful during cherry blossom season. Entrance fee for adult is 400yen.

A very well-preserved garden. You can also enjoy the “water of longevity” inside the shrine in the garden.

It is a place you would like to enjoy, quiet. Not too many people, enjoy the peace and meditation. But for some people maybe boring, but it is only 10-15 minutes by tram, it worth to go in my opinion.

A beautiful garden with a shrine inside. It was very quiet with few visitors on a weekday, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the views

Small little quiet park where the complimentary port shuttle service drop off and pickup cruise guests.

Nothing to see here

Nice place

(Translated by Google) It's free, but there's a lot to see. The stone walls are well preserved, and it's easy to imagine what the castle tower used to look like. The moat is impressive, and the stone walls are beautifully shaped. There's a shrine inside, and you can even draw your fortune. I bought a victory charm, which is a nice memento of my visit. (Original) 無料なのに、見所いっぱい 石垣がきれいに保存されており、過去の天守閣の形などが、容易に想像される。 堀も立派で、石垣の形も美しい。 中に、神社が建立されておりおみくじも引ける。。 私は戦勝お守りを購入した。ここに来た記念になる。

(Translated by Google) ☆The stone walls and moat of the main castle ruins remain well preserved, while the Ninomaru, Sannomaru and Kitanomaru are almost completely buried in the city and no traces remain, and there are no buildings in the main castle either😅 This is a branch castle of the Kumamoto Domain in Higo Province, which overcame the One Castle per Province Law of 1615 (Genwa 5) and maintained two castles per province. Despite being a branch castle, it has a three-story, four-floor, one-basement large castle tower and a small castle tower connected to the main castle, and is surrounded by two-story Tsukimi Tower, Hogata Tower, Sanjuken Tower and Kitakyuken Tower, which firmly secure the line of defense on the stone walls, making it a castle structure that is more than that of a branch castle, a "contour-style flat castle"⚔️ ☆The best sights are the "main castle ruins" and the area around the small castle ruins. It is spectacular to see that a wonderful four-story, four-story castle tower without gables was built in the Edo period, the high stone walls that remain today are magnificent, and the stone walls inside the cave are also rugged‼ ️ (Original) ☆本丸跡の石垣と堀が良く残った城郭、逆に二ノ丸・三ノ丸・北ノ丸は殆んど市街地に埋没し跡形もなし、本丸の建造物も何もなし😅 1615年(元和5年)の一国一城令を乗り越えて一国ニ城を堅持した肥後国熊本藩の支城、支城なのに本丸に連結式の三層四階地下一階の大天守と小天守に周囲に二層の月見櫓・宝形櫓・三十間櫓・北九間櫓などが石垣上の塁線を強固に固める縄張は支城以上の城郭構造「輪郭式平城」⚔️ ☆一番の見所は「大天守跡」と小天守跡周辺、江戸時代には破風のない四層四階の素敵な天守が建っていたとは壮観、今に残る高石垣は見事、穴蔵の中の石垣も武骨です‼️

(Translated by Google) Most of the castles I've seen are on top of mountains or surrounded by rivers or the sea, making them difficult to attack, but this Yatsushiro Castle is in the city, and although it has a small moat, it seems to be an artificial stone wall on flat land. In the Edo period, it was believed that building a castle in the countryside would be a trigger for rebellion, so people thought that since there was already Kumamoto Castle, there was no need for a castle in Yatsushiro. It seems that Yatsushiro Castle was built as an exception because a nearby castle was destroyed. That means it's quite young as a Japanese castle. Are there any castles younger than this one? Now the main citadel is gone and it's a shrine. I wonder what other examples there are of castle sites being turned into shrines? I wonder if I can find out by googling it? lol Well, I posted this without doing any research, but since it's a relatively new castle, it might give us a glimpse of the cutting edge of castle building, and the fact that this place is on flat land is significant. (Original) ぼくが見て来たお城は、山の上や川や海に囲まれた、攻められにくい地形を利用していることが多いけど、この八代城は、街の中にあって、ちょっとしたお堀はあるけれど、平坦な土地に人為的な石垣という印象。 江戸時代になると、地方でお城を作ることが反逆のキッカケになるってことで、本来なら熊本城があるのだから、八代に城はいらんだろ？ってなる。そこを、近くにあったお城が壊れたから異例として築城出来たのが八代城らしい。 てことは、日本のお城としてはかなり若い。ここより若いお城ってあるのかな？ 今は、本丸もなくなって、神社になってる。 城の跡地を神社にするのも、他にはどんな事例があるのだろう？ググればわかるのかな？w まあ、全然調べもしないで投稿しちゃってるけど、比較的新しいお城なのだから、城造りの最先端が垣間見れるかもしれないし、この場所、平地というのも意味深だな。

(Translated by Google) There is a parking lot for visitors to the castle in front of the city hall, and it forms a park that includes the shrine. The stone walls are worth seeing. (Original) 市役所の前にお城見学者用の駐車場もあり、神社を含めた公園を形成。石垣は見応えがありました。

The castle is quite beautiful, but so is many other castles around Japan. While the constructed elevated walkway does take away from the historic look and feel, it does however give a different vantage point to the ground path. There are still many spots where the earthquake damage is “preserved”. The tourist facilities are very well laid out and most staff can speak basic English, and restaurant and snacks stalls are a bit expensive but reasonable for a tourist spot. Worth a visit if you are already coming to Kumamoto, but I wouldn’t bother travelling long distance just to see the castle.

Kumamoto Castle looks beautiful from the outside and the reconstruction after the 2016 earthquake is impressive. Inside it feels modern, more like a museum about the castle than a place showing how it once looked. There are no traditional rooms or old interiors like in Himeji. There’s also a separate Castle Museum but it can be skipped since the main castle already explains most of the history and the rebuilding process. Great to see from the outside, but not the old Japan vibe I expected.

Admission fee 800yen for castle only. There is an app called the KumaCastle which they encouraged you to download. Very easy to use. U can use the app to scan the QR code in each station for a more thorough briefing. Learnt that this castle got affected by the earthquake on 2016 and restoration is still in progress. Looking at how they went on to preserve something so worthy of the effort is heartwarming. Not boring. It’s educational and it’s informative for both adults and kids.

Visiting Kumamoto Castle was one of the most peaceful and moving experiences of my trip to Japan. As I walked toward the castle, the grand black-and-white towers rose above the trees, standing proudly against the sky. Even from a distance, I could feel the strength and spirit of the place. Inside the castle grounds, time seemed to slow down. The stone walls, carefully rebuilt after the earthquake, carry stories of courage and endurance. I found myself pausing often—just to breathe in the quiet air and imagine what life was like centuries ago. It’s amazing how a place that has faced so much destruction can still stand with such dignity and grace. Walking along the pathways lined with old trees, I felt surrounded by both history and hope. The sunlight filtering through the leaves gave the whole place a warm glow, and for a moment, I felt completely at peace. There was no rush, no noise—only the soft sounds of the wind and my own footsteps. Kumamoto Castle reminded me that beauty often comes from strength, and peace can exist even after hardship. I left the castle feeling calm, inspired, and deeply grateful. It is more than just a historic site—it is a symbol of resilience and quiet power. If you ever visit Kumamoto, take time to stand still within those walls and let the spirit of the castle speak to you.

A very well preserved historical monument, and very cleverly and sensitively remodelled to include visual and static exhibits, including modern amenities like walking paths and ramps, and elevators and toilets. Becoming a user friendly and accessible place for everyone. The visual displays and video documentary present very detailed historical and rehabilitation backgrounds, making the visit very interesting and educational.

As the billboards make me believe, construction will carry on until the 2030s. Or even 2050s as another sign seems to say. While renovations are not a bad thing, I feel they could have been made less impactful for visitors. Even just walking around the castle is annoying. I am so glad that Kumamoto is only a stopover and we didn't come here for the castle. The late afternoon light, just before sunset, was quite lovely though. And the lights at night (from our hotel room) are nice too. (Last admission is 4pm, if you want to get inside.)

Very well-organised and easy to navigate. The staff, ticketing, and crowd flow were all managed smoothly, making the visit comfortable even with many visitors. The castle grounds are impressive and the restoration work is beautifully done. Worth a visit!

Located near the castle, this shrine is a peaceful and historically significant site, dedicated to Katō Kiyomasa, the samurai lord who built Kumamoto Castle in the early 17th century. It’s a quiet place to take a break from the crowds and enjoy a bit of history and culture. The atmosphere is serene, and the shrine grounds are well maintained. A good place to visit if you're already exploring the castle area.

a very wonderful shrine. vibrant color, beautiful trees, also offer a very special view of kumamoto castle. if you are luckier, you could observe the weeding ceremony being hold upstairs for the japanese. the tori gate and the tree is gorgeous

Kumamoto Castle was not open, but you can have a close look at this shrine nearby. It also has several Kumamoto bears.

Visited in 2.4.2025. Amazing view of Kumamoto castle from here. It sells cute Omamori and some beautiful golden plate of Kumamoto Castle. Super cute Kumamon in Samurai outfit. Toilet is clean.

A beautiful, quiet shrine with a view of Kumamoto Castle. It takes a bit of time to reach because of the ongoing renovations around the castle.

Nice and quiet place but maybe less attraction places have better photo spots for Kumamoto castle

Has a beautiful view of the castle, cherry blossoms leading up to it, and is available to visit during the evening as well for a good view of the illuminated castle. The shrine itself is also beautiful and they have nice goshuin.

I came here in the evening after visiting the castle. It is obviously built for tourists so prices can be a bit higher here. But also you will be able to find unique food like horse meat here, and also omiyage from the Kumamoto region. Was not crowded because I arrived quite late.

The food here is low quality and expensive. It is better to come here after having a meal at the nearby mall's food court. Definition of a tourist trap. But you can still enjoy the scenery and old aesthetic without buying any food. The Kumamoto Castle ticketing area is here too, you can buy tickets and ticket packages for the castle and museums. This area feels too commercialized, lacking many of the traditional feeling. You can also print a Kumamoto Castle coin with engraving for 630 yen

Not a big area. Mainly restaurants. One gift shop. Walking around here takes 10 mins unless you go for the VR or wearing costumes to walk around and take pictures. Enjoy the ancient feel with the architectural style.

Sakura-no-baba Josaien, a lively castle town square at the foot of Kumamoto Castle, where visitors can enjoy local cuisine, traditional crafts, and cultural performances.

One of nice spots to visit when you are visiting Kumamoto Castle, it is near the castle, and close to bus stop that will take you back to the town. Here, there are lots of local shops and restaurants.

Visited in July 2025 Back in the day, the site was a stable for the troops stationed in the castle. But now the days of horse transportation is long gone and it has been repurposed as a tourist center. The Wakuwakuza museum is inside the complex as well. Due to the absence of any real food courts or shopping centers nearby and around the castle area (the city's major shopping arcade is 500+ meters away), the price of the foods here are way more expensive, borderline tourist trap level even. That being said, there are some items I found interesting. For instance, there is one stall that sells anything horse meat, from croquette, sausage on skewer, and even sushi. Forgot to ask whether the latter is grilled or raw horse meat on sushi rice (seems to be on the former). Another sells some Kumamon-shaped cake with some filling. AFAIK there's one shuttle bus running between the place and Kumamoto Station.

This place could get busy at times, specially on weekend where there are many tourists but it is still tolerable. The place is nice and has different stores that offer food and drinks. I particularly love the matcha store there. Offers great variety of food and has available seats on the side. Local sellers are welcoming and very kind. At times, there are presentations in the morning and afternoon, I am not so sure about the schedule and if it is something seasonal. I believe local sellers are used to meeting foreigners and despite the fact that most of them dont speak English, they still try to be patient and warm. I have not tried the restaurants there but will try my best to visit it next time. Added some photos at night

It’s a unique experience, a small village in the middle of the mountains, all houses basically dedicated to the craft, you see then drying the products outside and the shops are inside their homes. Such a local feel, the price range is reasonable with some going cheaper and some more pricey. They got a small free local museum, all the stuff inside is in Japanese though but nice enough to look at. The parking lot by the museum isn’t the biggest, it was quite empty when I got there around 9:30 am but completely full when I left around 11 am. Guess it depends on season and weather but it doesn’t seem like there are any other parking spots around so I suggest arriving earlier if you’re driving :))

We went on a rainy day so we only went to two shops, but the potteries are so nice, we bought some beautiful tea cups. The shops are unattended and you need to ring the bell if you want to buy. They are professional craftsmen busy working in the workshops, not professional customer service employees, so don't be a jerk going in.

Am a potter hence wanted to visit this place to possibly make some ceramics or buy some unique pieces. However, there were probably only 4-5 shops that were opened, with many store owners being quite nonchalant and products were limited. Not as wide of a range as one would’ve expected. Interesting to still see how they pound the yellow clay using the force of the water. Love the cute (and only food store) soba and udon shop!

When art, tradition, and nature seamlessly fuse, the resulting uniqueness establishes an identity of its own. Originality can't be replicated nor transferred; it exclusively resides within the soul of the creator. This is what it is.

A village dedicated to pottery. Serene and tranquil, located in the middle of mountain and forest. Really nice walking in the village and admiring all the pottery items.

Caught bus from bus station worth doing for scenery and the really interesting story of the pottery village and how it’s made. Needless to say we purchased some pottery which is very reasonably priced.

Beautiful, quiet and a great range of high quality traditional pottery. Items are mostly 1000yen and up (each). If you know what you are interested in and need a beautiful addition to your tableware, you will find it here. Spend just under 10000yen on 5 items.

Tucked away in the charming town of Yamaga, Yachiyo-za Theater is a beautifully preserved piece of Japan’s cultural heritage. Originally built in 1910, this Meiji-era playhouse transports visitors back in time with its stunning wooden architecture, traditional tatami seating, and rich atmosphere. The moment you step inside, you can feel the history in the air. Whether you’re watching a performance or taking a guided tour, Yachiyo-za offers a rare glimpse into the world of classical Japanese theater. The backstage areas are just as fascinating as the main hall — from trap doors used for dramatic entrances to the rotating stage (mawari-butai), everything has been meticulously maintained. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, often going out of their way to explain the history and functionality of the theater. English materials are available, and some tours include a brief live performance, which adds to the immersive experience. What truly makes Yachiyo-za special is its ability to connect the past with the present. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for something unique to do in Kumamoto Prefecture, Yachiyo-za is well worth the visit.

In the northern part of Kumamoto prefecture and an hour drive away from Kumamoto City lies a beautiful and bustling agricultural city of Kyushu region, Yamaga City. Aside from the picturesque views of its mountains, rivers, and rice paddies, one of Japan’s designated National Important Cultural Property, YACHIYO-ZA is located here. Yachiyo-za theater, a playhouse built by hand in the early 1900s, is one of the many cultural attractions of the city. Inside, you can see the patiently hand-painted advertisements of yesteryears on the ceiling. It’s an amazing piece of art itself. You can also visit the back stage and the “abyss” or the under floor area, where the revolving stage and trapdoors are found. Variety of cultural performances such as concerts, kabuki, and the famous Yamaga garden lantern dance (a regular performance which, if you are lucky you can see one when you visit) are held here. The theater is open to visitors/general public on days where there are no performances. You may want to check out Yachiyo-za’s official website for the tour schedule before coming. And oh… the volunteer tour guides are amazing.

Old Japanese theater, which is a National Important Cultural Property. It's very interesting to see back stage and old posters on the ceiling. I would love to come back here and watch the shows next time !

100+ year old wooden theater. We saw a lantern dance and walked the old street nearby. It was a nice experience along a day full of "off the main path" tourist activities.

They provide the Chinese leaflet and it’s a must visit place if you are 劍心/佐藤健 fans.

I had to pay 1500¥ to get in, but that was because they had shows there that day. The good part was that between shows you could explore the whole theater, even under the stage! And the ticket was valid until you left, meaning I could watch more than just the one show. There's AC and free WiFi as well, so it was perfect to relax there for a bit.

Beautiful historical theater.

Interesting though brief introduction of the local lantern making craft.

We had a bit of trouble to communicate with the staff. We bought a combined museum and theatre ticket but were still asked to pay extra for a show we didn’t want to see. In the end, the issue was resolved. Since we visited during the Yamaga Lantern Festival, there were additional charges, but if you enter the theatre after 6 PM, there’s no need to pay extra! The lanterns were beautiful, though the place itself isn’t very large, so it only takes a short while to explore.

The Yamaga Lantern Folk Art Museum is a beautiful celebration of Japanese artistry, culture, and tradition. Located in the heart of Yamaga, this museum showcases the incredible craftsmanship behind the region’s famous Yamaga lanterns, made entirely from washi paper and a bit of glue — no wood or metal at all! The exhibits are both elegant and inspiring. You’ll see intricate, full-size paper lanterns shaped like temples, shrines, and even samurai helmets. The level of detail is astonishing, and the lighting displays make the works glow with a warm, almost magical quality. One of the highlights is the section on the Yamaga Toro Festival, where women in yukata carry glowing lanterns on their heads and perform graceful dances. The museum does a great job of connecting the folk art to the local history and community. There’s also a video demonstration and sometimes even live paper lantern-making displays, giving you a deeper appreciation of the time, skill, and patience it takes to create these delicate masterpieces.

Small place but can learn the story of folk art in Yamaga

The Yamaga Info Centre was very helpful in introducing us to this extraordinary folk craft museum. Highly recommended if you want an in depth insight into the papercraft history of the area.

Quaint little museum. Costs 300¥ to get in.

Very lovely collection of paper artwork, as well as unique Yamaga culture and festival.

There’s parking a few steps away, entrance is free. The wisteria wasn’t in full bloom yet when we visited, but it was still a sight to behold. The flowers smell so good.

Just the right timing,it was in full bloomed.Its a beautiful place. Good for relaxing 😌

I dropped by before going hiking.

I went here on 15th May, i don't see westeria season anymore :( what a waste😭

Great place

I want to ask when is the best time to come in 2020? Early April?

Somehow the nature here reminded me of Mongolian nature. Breathtaking!

The Tachiarai Peace Memorial Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in World War II history. Located on the former site of Tachiarai Airfield—once the largest military airfield in East Asia—the museum offers a powerful and sobering look into Japan’s wartime aviation legacy. The airfield played a crucial role in training Japanese Army pilots and later became a major dispatch point for kamikaze missions during the final stages of the war. It was heavily bombed and largely destroyed by U.S. B-29 bombers in March 1945. The museum features a range of excellent exhibits, including two standout aircraft: Nakajima Ki-27 "Type 97" Fighter – the only surviving example in the world, recovered from Hakata Bay and restored in 1996. This model was used in kamikaze missions. Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero (Model 32) – the only surviving example of this iconic fighter, a symbol of Japanese air power during the war. One of the more striking displays is a silhouette of a B-29 bomber suspended from the ceiling. Seeing it overhead gives a real sense of the aircraft’s massive scale—both impressive and deeply sobering. While the exhibits have minimal English translations, using Google Translate helps capture the essence of the displays. Despite the language barrier, the museum’s historical significance and powerful presentation make it highly recommended for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Japan’s WWII experience.

Tachiarai Peace Memorial Museum is one of three facilities on Kyushu ( including Chiran and Bansei in Kagoshima) dedicated to the memory of the Japan Imperial Army Special Attack Force aka "Kamikaze" suicide pilots. Tachiarai was the former location of the Imperial Army's pilot academy that by 1944 became a center for the rapid training and dispatch of suicide pilots. The museum is notable for its display of a Type Zero fighter aircraft and a Type K27, which was restored after being recovered from the bottom of Hakata Bay, in the main exhibit hall. The remainder of the exhibits are mostly portrait photos of the special attack pilots, their final letters to family, and artifacts. The museum would be more properly called a "war memorial" rather than peace memorial, as there is no context presented regarding the sacrifice of the pilots, soldiers and civilians that were killed in the final months of the war. The museum theater tells the unfortunate story of the local village, which greatly prospered when the army aviation academy was established. As the war progressed and turned against Japan, the academy became a training center for suicide pilots and that caused the base to become a target for a massive B-29 bombing raid at the end of March 1945. The raid damaged the airbase, but also devastated the village including the death of many civilians, including children. There is no context presented as to why despite being an obvious target, the town was not evacuated and there is no context presented on the situation in Japan which allowed senior commanders to send boys to their death on one way suicide missions. The exhibition shows that the average age of the pilots was about 23, with many 18-22 years old. They knew nothing but war almost their entire lives. Most of the boys were quickly trained to reach a minimal skill level, then waited for their special orders. Almost all the missions failed. The few that were successful caused terrible, but inconsequential damage on the US Navy. The museum presents the results in the light of success, which is not historically accurate. It would be much more interesting if all of the Kyushu peace museums included context including the responsibility of the leaders whose failures resulted in the tragic deaths of the pilots and civilians. After looking at so many striking portrait photographs of the pilots (they had photographs taken in pilot gear or had portraits created post mortem) the question remains were the 3,898 suicide pilots heroes or victims? My view is they are both, and were needlessly wasted in the prime of the their youth by the senior commanders. They are tragic heroic victims. But one consolation, is the pilots get their photos and biography recorded and presented in a beautiful museum, while the many other millions of victims of WWII do not get that privilege. A visit to the Tachiarai Peace Memorial Museum shows the dark side of war. It's well worth a visit, even without the context and the restored Type Zero fighter is a gem. Access is by car or the super cute Amagi Railroad. A short walk from the tiny station.

It’s worthwhile visiting if you’re in the area. I applaud the efforts of these people who are trying to promote peace. There were no English captions on the exhibits.

Great to know parts of WW2 Pacific war zone

Being able to see a Zero up close and personal was amazing. Reading about and watching on TV doesn't do justice to this technological marvel. Once you're up close you can really see the level of mastery by engineers, craftsmen, and pilots who employed it. The cockpit has literally no armor. Thin aluminum skin between pilot and sky. Just amazing!

A great and peaceful museum to visit! I was surprised at the sight of a J7W Shinden model! Its portrayal of a B29 and a Japanese interceptor was very creative too!

This is a war museum not a peace museum. It is great if you are a fan of the engineering and design marvel that is THE Zero fighter jet. It is also great if you want to see Japan’s stance towards the war. It was presented that their airforce was defending their homeland, when anyone who read history knows they were the one who started it. It’s also priceless to see the sad sacrifice of 18-22 years old pilots who were known as the ‘Kamikaze’, and the museum glorified their sacrifices. However it is biased, very biased, and the bias is interesting to see. Also, please prepare Google translation because there is almost no English caption provided for obvious reasons.

Overall quite fun, it offers several rollercoasters and some other fun Egyptian style games, enough to keep you entertained for the whole day, especially if you come with kids. We came on a weekend and there weren’t many people at all. We bought our tickets on klook and that included the smaller games such as shooting etc.

Fun rides and games for the kids. Went for the day after a few weeks of travelling Japan and kids needed a kids day. It’s a bit rough around the edges and showing its age. Theres a room you can go in with some fake polar bears and it’s at -5. As a Canadian it was pretty funny. There’s remnants of several rollercoasters that have been decommissioned but lots of others still going. It was eerily quiet. Very few people. O lineups and by none I mean we were the only people on many of the rides. Didn’t see a full ride once.

We booked our Greenland tickets through Agoda, but unfortunately they couldn't be scanned at the entrance-even after the staff Kitano-san kindly and patiently tried to help. In the end, we had to buy new tickets on the spot. For your information, we were the only tourists there that day lol. When the theme park was about to close and we were heading toward the exit, Kitano-san called out to us and informed us that our Agoda tickets had finally been successfully scanned. Because of that, the on-the-spot tickets we bought could be refunded. What touched us even more was that Kitano-san had actually finished his shift earlier that afternoon, but he told us he felt responsible and waited for us at the exit. A huge thank you to Mr. Kitano Katsuya for his kind hearted in helping us from the moment we arrived until the moment we left. We are very grateful to meet him! Please visit Greenland-best roller coasters! Arigatou gozaimasu! Ggreenland.sub @greenlandstaff

It was so much fun. There were a variety of toys to play with, delicious food spread throughout the area. Even though it was hot under the sun, there were plenty of desserts and cold drinks. Unfortunately, some of the play equipment were closed for maintenance. I hope to come back again soon.

If you have children, this is probably a nice amusement park, but for adults it was a bit of a downer. For me, the rides were either too boring or too daring. I do not recommend going on a hot day even if there are rides that take you everywhere around the park so you don't have to walk all the time.

You should start with the attractions of the car on the rail, you can control the speed in it and drive high enough to see the park and more or less plan the route. Car for 4 people. Amusement park, old. It can be seen that everything is old, a little dilapidated, but the rides are in good condition. I was here in the winter, at the end of January, there were very few people, there were no queues, we walked around the entire park and rode everything we could. Several main attractions were closed, like a dinosaur and a cool spinner))) they sell very large squids on a stick, in other places they are smaller, so I was pleasantly surprised! The card is issued at the entrance, but it's still better to google and read about the rides in advance.

First, We went to the pool and swim🏊🏻‍♀️🏊🏻 I really enjoyed the slide although my nose is little bit hurt when falling into the water. I did it 3x😂😛 After swimming we went on rides. The weather was so hot, it seems good to go in autumn so that not too hot anymore.🥵😰😨even if the weather was so hot we had a great time😊🥰08-19-23

Main message: the museum is built around the concept of reviving the disaster for the visitors and it does so VERY good with the volcano directly in sight and the museum built in the path of destruction. Texts are all in Japanese, but the audio guides are good and allow to dive into the exhibition. Details: We came in a little less than 2h before closing time on that day and basically had the whole museum to ourselves. The whole staff greeted us and we felt like on an official state visit. ☺️ The ticket machines are in Japanese only but the staff will help you if needed. At the entrance another staff member held a sign with English information on playing times for a cinema and a little theater (later more on that). You get an audio guide in several languages. German an English are covered. I think Spanish and French as well. The guide is very helpful because texts at the exhibits are nearly all in Japanese. Just choose the number visible at your spot and press play. There is little cinema playing a movie that replays the events of the disaster. It is in Japanese, but the audio guide plays translations and explanations in parallel. Worked for me. Even better is the little theater! It replays the events of the earlier outbreak in 1792 with moving wooden scenery, sound, light and video clips. Made for kids I found myself leaning in totally consumed by the story. Absolutely lovely! The do it yourself stations for kids are not fully usable if you don't speak the language. But this is just a minor glitch. A highlight is the glass floor with a post disaster scenery. Every few minutes it simulates the outbreak and gives you an idea how fast a pyroclastic wave at 100kph really is. Frightening. 😬 There is also a volcanic stone walking path and a viewing platform. You could easily spend 4h there, I think. Cafe and vending machines are (of course) available and very affordable. Very close to the museum is also a set of houses destroyed in the disaster and persevered in their state which gives you an even better understanding of the horrible force that came done back then. No fees charged there. If some extra texts in English are added, the place is worth more than 5 stars. I can only say: VISIT!

This is a must-see if you are ever in the area. The story of the Mt Uzen disaster can really be felt here. It's completely amazing to experience. If you are an English speaker grab the headphones so you can listen to the story as you walk through each of the visual displays, it makes for a great experience.

This museum will give you a history behind the surrounding area with videos. The ebst thing for English speaking tourist, they have translation headsets to wear. If you live science and history this place is it. ALSO great for kids.

Really interesting interactive displays on the volcanic area. You get an English interpretive device so you can listen to each display. Clearly marked. Very friendly staff

A must see if in the area! Incredible exhibits and they provide English guidance!

Such a pleasant place to learn more on the subject of volcanoes. The stuffs and our guides were super friendly and hospitable. It is very much children friendly and has a perfect view of Mt. Unzen.

English audio guides available (other languages like Chinese and Korean also available) and a lot of information about the volcano eruption in Unzen. Pretty cool to see the pictures, videos, and objects on display. A ton of interactive displays.

Entry cost 400 yen and was just a fair distance away from the train station. It was a pretty good place for me to just sit back and relax after visiting other touristic spots in the area. I was offered a cup of green tea and had small talk with one of the staff members there who was really helpful in recommending other places to visit, she even handed me a brochure to emphasize her point on the best touristic spots worth visiting. I liked my brief experience there.

My family and I experience trasnquil and beautiful park with tons of natrual spring water rising from the ground. The water is so crystal clear that we could see the carps. It cost 400 Yen to sit in this 110 years-old traditional Japanese villa. We sip a cup of green tea in a comfortable and quiet atmosphere. We stroll around the garden and observe the movement of carps in the clear water that reflects the view of trees and picturesque plants. Friendly staffs explains history, recommend attractions and even offcer beverage discount.

entrance fee is ¥400. the land lady will serve a cup of green tea. its a typical tatami japanese home but very picturesque. there are a few very big koi fish in the pond.

Tonnes of natural spring water rises up out of the ground here every day and the water is so clear, that the carp swimming around at Shimeiso sometimes appear as if they're floating or even hovering above the water. Enjoy a cup of green tea and relax in this traditional Japanese villa.

It's a 110 years old house with beautiful garden. You pay 300yen,,, 2euro20(11/04/18) It includes a cup of delicious green tea and gift post card. There is a friendly kimono lady explain the magic Japanese garden. I really enjoyed there.

This place was very serene. The staffers were very kind, the oocha was good, and the sounds of water were very peaceful. The price was reasonable for what I experienced.

300 yen entrance fee. a sweet older lady will offers a cup of green tea. plz make sure to sit down and finish your green tea, as it is bad manner to leave some left over in the cup, and enjoy her explanation of the place.

A well preserved historical site just a 10 minute walk from Shimabara Station. The entrance fee is ¥700 for adults as of March 2025, and you can explore the castle in about an hour. Originally built in the early 17th century, this castle played a key role during the Shimabara Rebellion. It was later dismantled during the Meiji era but reconstructed in the 1960s. The main keep offers panoramic views of the city, Mount Unzen, and the Ariake Sea. Inside, the museum showcases samurai armor, weapons, and historical artifacts, but most descriptions are in Japanese only. The castle grounds also feature statues and exhibits related to Christian history in Japan. Overall, it's a nice place for history enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy scenic views of the region.

The newly redone Shimabara castle is celebrating their 400th anniversary this year, and it was pretty nice. They had two guides dressed in period outfits showing people around, and a selection of weapons, outfits, crafts, and pottery from the Japanese fuedal ages up until the restoration. Views are good from the top. Can see the whole thing in an hour or less on foot from Shimabara station if you’re in a hurry.

We made a short detour to visit Shimabara Castle, and I’m so glad we did. It’s not as famous as some of Japan’s bigger castles, but it has its own quiet charm and unique history. The white five-tiered keep rises gracefully over the surrounding town, and the moat and stone walls give it a classic, picture-perfect look. Even from the outside, it was already beautiful. Inside the castle, the atmosphere was calm and unhurried—no big crowds, which made it easy to take our time. The exhibits inside were more than just your typical historical displays. They focused a lot on the Christian history of the region, the Shimabara Rebellion, and local samurai culture, which gave it a different flavor compared to other castles I’ve visited. I learned a lot, especially about the hidden Christian communities during the Edo period. Climbing up the keep, each floor had something different to offer—from armor displays to old photographs—and at the top, we were rewarded with sweeping views of Shimabara city and even glimpses of Mount Unzen in the distance. It was peaceful and surprisingly scenic. The castle grounds were also worth exploring. There were a few small museums nearby and a tranquil garden area. Everything was well maintained, and the staff were warm and welcoming. It felt like one of those under-the-radar spots that deserves more attention. Shimabara Castle might not have the grandeur of Osaka or Himeji, but its history runs deep and its quiet elegance leaves a strong impression. If you’re in Nagasaki Prefecture or near Unzen, it’s absolutely worth the stop.

20251121. Day 2 of Chan Brother Tour, second attraction. Walking one round the area.

If you like history like I do 100% recommend checking out the castle. They have old samurai armor, weapons, art and just cool relics from the past. Plus you get to learn about the ways that went on in the surrounding area.

Newly built reproduction of a feudal castle. Great informational displays with some English. Views of the city, port, and nearby mountains are of a plus.

Visited on 23 Jan, 2025. The staff in blue traditional costume provided perfect explanation of the Shimabara Challenge. Thanks to her, I have completed it and earned the badge. The castle offers a fantastic 360° view of the lovely place.

Parking: Great parking area if you're driving. There were plenty of parking and the outdoor mall is connected by a bridge. Food: Not bad. Way better than the ones in the USA. Shopping: If you've been to the outlets in the USA, there's no comparison. There weren't many options and the prices are not cheap. Not cheap at all. This is supposed to be an outlet, not a regular shopping mall. I think if you're living in Asia, you'll probably like this place. However, if you're living in the USA, skip this place. It's going to be a waste of time for you.

If you’re looking for a big outlet with lots of branded shops, this is the one for you! It’s quite a bit of a travel, but definitely worth it. For me, it’s even better than Ships and Lalaport. The only downside (besides the distance) is the long line for food, so it’s best to bring something to eat or have a snack beforehand. Overall, a great place to shop and spend the day! 🛍️

The usual stores you will find at other Premium Outlets. It’s not as big as the one at Gotemba but still worth a visit. Show your passport and you will get a tax exception on your bill. I was told that next year (2026) you can only get your tax refund at the airport like in most countries. We spend a few hours here and found some nice bargains. I had some of the best burgers ever at the food court.

The place is nice as a venue, but the outlet prices often didn't differ much (if at all) from regular retail. Didn't buy anything except some Nike shoes – both Nike and Adidas likely will have the more compelling sale prices for shoes. Spent less than an hour here and ended up leaving since there wasn't much for us – definitely can't compare to outlet shopping in Europe. The free parking is a plus though.

Good place to shop. Not too crowded and good selwction of brands. Tosu also offered very nice countryside scenery.

An absolute shopping paradise. So many great brands at massive discounts—especially during the Golden Week promo! Most shops had 20% off for 3 items or more, and I could also claim a 10% tourist tax rebate. On top of that, many items were already marked down 40–60% off original prices, so the discounts stacked up really well. Scored quality stuff from Onitsuka Tiger, EDWIN, Calvin Klein, GAP, Tommy Hilfiger, and more. Great mix of style and value—definitely worth a trip!

We came on 12 April 2025. As it was a Saturday, there were many people at the Outlets. You can download digital coupons at the entrance via the QR code.

amazing views and lots of cats(´ 3｀) we got here late so we didn't get to see any attractions but we still saw the views and they were amazing! i'd say the only downside of this place is the smell. it has a strong smell of rotten eggs that you really can't ignore, but i guess thats something you really can't change. i'd definitely recommend this place if you're in shimabara. even for a teenage girl like me, the place isn't boring at all!! (pictures focus mainly on the cats, sorry lol.)

Honestly it's so amazing and beautiful and beautiful. And it's free! I almost thought it's not worth coming to unzen just to see fumaroles, because I saw them in Hakone. But it's 100% worth it. They are so interesting - they're loud, they sputter and make a ton of noise, the mud bubbles are so interesting to watch, and the cats are MARVELOUS! You'll never meet such sweet wonderful cats. Especially ones who live on a volcano.

Interesting place worth visiting together with other places on this peninsula. It's less impressive then Beppu, but it is more authentic and less like an amusement park. Admission was free, parking 500 yen

Don’t miss this geothermal national park if you’re in Nagasaki! No entrance fee and not crowded. The place is fascinating, with lots of hot springs and sulfur vents. But it’s not just about witnessing the natural beauty—the real highlight is learning the history behind it. Many years ago, before it became a national park open to the public, this area was associated with tragedy and suffering. It was once a place where Christians were thrown in to die, which is why it’s called “Unzen Jigoku,” meaning “hell.”

The South island of new Zealand is better. This is only 4* but seeing all the cats at dusk makes it 5*. The cats are super friendly and you can go up and pet most of them. Was great walking around at dusk and at night time it changes again. Highly recommend you stay nearby.

Interesting spot if you’d like to learn about volcanoes but I thought the natural sulpheric smell was too strong. Other than that, was a nice day trip to visit

We stopped here on our way to Nagasaki. It is an interesting place with lots of potential. We enjoyed the place, but it is a pity that a little effort is made to make it as good as it can. It looked like there was a lot of old construction and piping rubbish left behind which detracted from the experience. It wouldn't take a lot to improve it and make the site to look more natural (less concrete and more discrete pipes). Despite the above, it is still worthwhile a stop if time permits. It is one of a very few sites that is still free (hope it stays that way).

Phenomenal. So many staff around to guide people. The park is unbelievably clean and well kept. The structures are really authentically recreated and you can enter most of them. They have some museums and other things to do inside the park as well. One of the coolest things I’ve come across in Kyushu.

Yoshinogari Historical Park, Kanzaki-gun, Saga-ken Have you ever wondered about the fascinating history of Yayoi & Jomon? The yoshinogari archaeological site of excavation, preservation & ruins holds some unspoken secrets waiting to be discovered. Let’s dive into the past and uncover the mysteries that have been hidden for centuries! You can learn about the history of this place by visiting it. It’s a fascinating place indeed. Opening hours: 9:00 Am to 17:00 Entrance Fee: Ranges from 460¥ There are museum programs where you can learn to make fire and crafting accessories and knives. Magama bead making-250¥ You can check their website for more information and programs. Website: yoshinogari.jp/en/

The park is way bigger than one would expect (maybe) and if you love history, certainly make your way out here. They even have workshops and I loved the one I joined because I love stones. Seeing the Yayoi life in the past was a good experience. You can walk around the park to check out the old houses and the ancient burial. There is a roving bus. There’s a big part of the park that’s good for kids (or so the guide at the community center told me because I didn’t explore that part). Worth visiting!

Relaxing day out from Fukuoka. There’s not a lot of detailed information in English, but the site is very interesting, don’t miss the burial mound. Beautiful views as well.

It's an extremely large area. The train is about the same distance from Yoshinogari Koen Station or Kanzaki Station. I want to be prepared to walk steadily. It feels good when the weather is nice. You can learn about jar coffins. The experience center is also fun.

Plentiful of open spaces and historical artifacts built to scale. A fun place for the family amidst nature. The park is huge. For a start, take the free shuttle bus to go round the park. Then select places of specific interest to you. Bring along food for a small picnic (there are also provisions for BBQ on site) as the restaurant maybe fully booked up. Enjoy!

Very cool experience for a visit to the museum or to just have a picnic in the park. The grounds are beautiful and they have daily activities that you can do for an additional fee. Also, they have multiple paid parking lots around the place. It’s huge so plan to do a lot of walking.

The museum is great and is for free. You can view plenty of historical items and descriptions. There are other visuals, like videos and recording available. If you are interested in Japanese history, I can definitely recommend this visit.

I was really surprised at the size and variety of exhibitions in this museum. They have some interactive parts and photo spots. A very nice volunteer gave me a free tour in English so I learned a lot more than I could have by just reading. I really recommend it! Also if you have a JR Pass, show it at the counter to get a free souvenir!

It's sad that saga castle did not survive the passing of time, the years of neglect, and the numerous fire incidents that eventually brought it down. This museum however encapsulate a great deal of the history surrounding the castle and the region of Saga. A lot of valuable national treasures are enclosed here and valuable history on the first vaccination in Japan, innovations in railway, and the first most advanced school on western education in Japan. The heritage of the Naomasa clan lives on and I am in awe of the history of this place which largely goes unnoticed by most Japanese folks today. Also, a particularly interesting activity to partake in is the digital photography in fictional outfits of the Edo era, the outfits are selected randomly and I was lucky to get the Samurai outfit ^_^

Thanks for the senior tour guide!! We visited the museum 2 days ago. The gentleman guided us in English and gave the detailed history of Saga castle. We enjoy very much and know more about Saga city!!

The best museum I have been.

Visited in January 2020. Reconstruction of the main keep of Saga Castle built in 1838, during the last years of the Edo Period. It is one of the largest wooden reconstructions in Japan. There are historic exhibitions in the museum and it is open to public. Need to remove shoe in locker before entering. Main entrance is located near Naomasa Statue / NHK building

Free! Learn about how the guy reformed the budget and saved enough money to produce canons. Eventually leading to Japan's military dominance in Asia.

Feel calm and full of cherry blossom 🌸 Not much traveller ..

Fun place, buy some koi food and throw it around for fun

Quite no tourist and not much attractive

Evening is good for a walking or sittings idly beside the water. If you want to pray, maybe good for you.

Traditional temple. Not your fanciest but well worth a visit if you are in Sag..

A large Shrine, nice place to visit during New Year

easy and casual street