Travel Japan (Episode 6): Things to do in Kumamoto (Kyushu, Japan)
Kumamoto City, located in the heart of Kyushu (Japan’s third-largest island) is a captivating destination known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. The city’s mascot, Kumamon, is a lovable black bear created to promote the region and has become a national sensation and a cherished symbol of Kumamoto.
Kumamoto is renowned for its exceptionally pure and abundant water supply, often referred to as some of the best in Japan. The city’s water comes from natural underground springs fed by the nearby Mount Aso (one of the largest active volcanoes in the world). These springs provide Kumamoto with a consistent supply of high-quality groundwater. Nearly all of the city’s drinking water (tap water) comes from this natural underground source, which is rare for a city of its size. The water is naturally filtered through volcanic rock, resulting in a clean, fresh taste that is highly prized.
Join us, while we explore the best things to do in Kumamoto!
Start (00:00)
#1: Kumamoto Castle 熊本城 (00:09)
The crown jewel of Kumamoto City.
One of the most impressive castles in Japan, Kumamoto Castle’s construction started in the early 1600s. But the main castle keep was burned down in 1877. The castle was reconstructed in 1960 and further restored between 1998 and 2008. Unfortunately, it suffered extensive damage during the 2016 earthquake. After a tedious restoration, the castle’s main keep was reopened in 2021 while much of its surrounding grounds remain under repair (as of Nov-2023).
#2: Suizenji Jojuen Garden 水前寺成趣園 (01:54)
Taking its name from a former Buddhist Temple, Suizenji Jojuen Garden was built in 1632 by Lord Hosokawa.
Suizenji Jojuen is a stunning traditional Japanese landscape garden built at the current site because of its spring-fed pond, which has clean water that is excellent for tea. The garden was designed to resemble the 53 post stations of the ancient Tokaido road, which connected Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo).
Date visited: Nov-2023
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Music Credit
Track: Sunset With You — Nico Anuch [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: https://youtu.be/6IoVNQ1R3Bc
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/sunset-you
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