Published date: November 12, 2024
Respecting Kumamoto Castle and Kiyomasa Kato
Room Type Stayed
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Experience of the stay
The county-operated parking lot is the closest (14:00 to 11:00 next day, 1100 yen) (after 11:00, it's 1000 yen for 12 hours).
Since it's right in the middle of Kumamoto's bustling district, there are plenty of dining options. Personally, I think the 'Koran-tei' with its Taipi-en is a must.
The café inside focuses on drinks and desserts.
The cocktail from the Kiyomasa-san cheers set (2000 yen) impressively matched celery, yuzu, and Kumamoto shochu, which surprised me.
Breakfast is available for 1250 yen without reservation. You can enjoy it on a lovely terrace overlooking Kumamoto Castle.
If you are staying for multiple nights, I would also like to try the breakfast buffet (3400 yen) at Hotel Nikko across the street.
Since it's OMO, I fully enjoyed the activities as well.
At 'Joko Machi Saruku' starting at 15:30, I was guided through the Joto street and an alley. Local stories are indeed wonderful.
Experiences during the trip
Kumamoto Castle is reported to have completed the restoration of the main keep in 2023, with newly updated exhibits inside.
Although the route is restricted due to ongoing repairs, I would love to visit again to see how much has been repaired.
The entrance fee is 800 yen, but I think it's smoother to buy a combined ticket (850 yen) at the Kumamoto Castle Museum 'Wakuwakuza' inside the castle's premises for some prior learning.
It takes about an hour and a half by car to get to Aso.
Depending on the time, the city can get quite crowded. For country folks like me, you need to be prepared...