Explore Kumamoto

03/05/2026

If you're looking to escape the crowds this golden week why not get out into the countryside to try one of Kyushu's Olle courses.

Yesterday I spent a very peaceful day with friends out in Saga on the Ureshino Olle course a 12.5 km hike that takes you through lush green forest, around tea plantations, past waterfalls and finishes with a relaxing riverside walk through Ureshino town. Finishing near Siebold's footbath where you can soak your weary feet.

The Olle courses usually take from 3-5 hours and range from around 8 to 13 km in length. They are well signposted and are all reachable by public transport, however they are not usually loop courses and as public transport can be infrequent it's best to work out the timings in advance.

https://kyushuolle.welcomekyushu.jp/en/courses

28/03/2026

One of my guests took these beautiful shots of a Kumataka ( Mountain Hawk eagle ) in flight in Minami A*o a couple of days ago

13/03/2026

Kumamoto castle spring festival

07/03/2026

Here's a great video of Komezuka going up in flames last weekend, tomorrow if the weather's good the northern outer edge of the caldera will be burnt so access to the Milk road will be limited.

28/02/2026

Signs of spring - Kawazu sakura trees are coming into bloom in Minami A*o, head to the Minami A*o Sakura park below Aspecta for views like this
https://maps.app.goo.gl/9hXNarQVfcEsWxL76

26/02/2026

Spring is in the air and warmer weather is on its way, so it's the perfect time to head out and explore Kumamoto prefecture's beautiful coastline. This is a little off the beaten path gem called Yunoko Island Park, in Minamata.
The calm, clear and shallow waters make it a safe place for children to splash about. There's a little path around the tiny island with stone turtles dotted around and also a famous onsen with sea views nearby. It's also not far from Kumamoto's interesting art town of Tsunagi.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/mXUL5nuHxxcsLpWc7

25/02/2026

24/02/2026

We are in the season of 'noyaki' the controlled burning of A*o's grasslands.
So you might see A*o looking a little blacker than usual if you're visiting in the next few weeks.
Burning is planned for March 1st in the Minami A*o area and March 8th along the northern outer rim of the caldera, this will lead to some road closures. The dates will change depending on the weather but usually take place at the weekend.

16/02/2026

Beautiful light up event on at Takachiho gorge

12/02/2026

08/02/2026

Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu shrine Feb 8 2026