6 recommended sightseeing spots in Kumamoto City that you can fully enjoy even on a rainy day
Kumamoto's downtown area spreads out around one of the largest arcade shopping streets in Kyushu. A rainy day might just be the perfect time to rediscover the charm of this city. There are plenty of spots where you can enjoy the city's appeal regardless of the weather, including tourist facilities, art museums, and places where you can experience traditional crafts. Since streetcars run throughout the city, getting around is stress-free even in the rain. Here are some recommended sightseeing spots to help you plan your trip with the weather in mind.
1Contemporary Art Museum, Kumamoto
Experience art with ease. An open museum located in the heart of the city.
Marina Abramović, "Library for Human Use," 2002 ©Marina Abramović, Contemporary Art Museum, Kumamoto; James Turrell, "MILK RUN SKY," 2002, Contemporary Art Museum, Kumamoto
This art museum is conveniently located at the entrance of the Kamitori Arcade in the heart of the city. It opened in 2002 as the first art museum in Kyushu to bear the name of contemporary art. From exhibitions introducing world-class contemporary art to those focusing on artists from Kumamoto, the museum hosts exciting special exhibitions that are accessible and popular with citizens.
A particularly notable feature is that facilities other than the special exhibition rooms, such as the Home Gallery (art library) and the city-center childcare space, can be used for free. Works by world-renowned artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Tatsuo Miyajima, and James Turrell harmonize with the space as in-house artworks and can be viewed at any time.
Workshops are held mainly on weekends at the Art Lab Market.
The communication space and shop, "Art Lab Market," hosts numerous events that children and adults can enjoy together as a place to foster communication. There are also workshops where you can try your hand at creating art with Kumamoto-based artists. Since events range from free to paid, it is recommended to check the schedule in advance and incorporate it into your itinerary.
There is also a comfortable, relaxing space where you can read a book or take a break while sheltering from the rain.
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Located right in front of the OMO5 Kumamoto hotel, this art museum is a place where you can easily enjoy contemporary art. Free movie screenings are held every Monday, and live piano performances take place daily (irregular holidays) from 7:00 PM.
- Contemporary Art Museum, Kumamoto
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3F Bipuresu Kumanichi Kaikan, 2-3 Kamitori-cho, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture MAP 
Approx. 1-minute walk from Torichosuji tram stop
10:00–20:00 (Last admission to exhibitions at 19:30)
Tuesdays, December 29–January 3
Free *Admission fee required for special exhibition rooms only
096-278-7500
None
2Higo Zogan Mitsusuke
A long-established store that passes on the traditional craft Kumamoto is proud of, "Higo Zogan," to the present day.
Higo Zogan is a traditional craft that represents Kumamoto. Its history began about 400 years ago when gunsmiths serving the lord of the Kumamoto Domain decorated gun barrels and sword guards, and it flourished alongside the prosperity of samurai culture. Zogan is a craft technique in which a different material is inlaid into a base material. In Higo Zogan, pure gold and pure silver are hammered into iron.
Founded in 1874 (Meiji 7), "Higo Zogan Mitsusuke" continues to pass down these traditional techniques while producing and selling mainly decorative items such as pendants, earrings, and tie pins.
Try your hand at making your own unique accessories with a zogan inlay experience
While buying Higo Zogan as a souvenir or gift is a great idea, a Zogan workshop (reservation required) is perfect for creating a memory of your trip. You can choose your favorite design, such as Kumamon or Kumamoto Castle, and complete it in about an hour. The current fourth-generation owner will carefully teach you from scratch. After that, it goes through a finishing process by a craftsman and will be delivered to your home in 2 to 3 weeks.
By experiencing traditional crafts and making something yourself, you will be able to understand the culture more deeply. The more absorbed you become, the more you will look forward to the day your work arrives.
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The inlay craft experience, where you can make accessories or straps, includes guidance and touch-ups from artisans, so even beginners can feel at ease. The thrill of holding something you created yourself is truly special.
- Higo Zogan Mitsusuke
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- 3-2-1 Shinmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture MAP
- Approx. 3-minute walk from Urumachi tram stop
- 9:00–17:00; Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 10:00–16:00
- Year-end and New Year holidays
- Higo inlay experience: 4,000 yen per person (shipping fee 770 yen extra) *Reservation required by the previous day
- 096-324-4488
- Free (Coin parking; fees covered by the shop)
3Kumamoto Castle Museum Wakuwaku-za
Make your Kumamoto sightseeing even more enjoyable with a realistic historical experience
An entertainment spot located within the Kumamoto tourist and exchange facility "Sakuranobaba Johsaien." It is a facility where you can learn about Kumamoto Castle in a fun way, with various highlights scattered across two floors, allowing you to fully experience the charm of Kumamoto even just indoors.
The first floor features a space where you can learn about the history of Kumamoto, and the disaster and restoration projection mapping introduces the current state of Kumamoto Castle. There is also a fixed-point live camera of Kumamoto Castle, so you can view the castle while staying indoors. Don't miss the corners where you can realistically experience the Sengoku to Edo periods, such as horse riding and palanquin experiences.
Enjoy the history of Kumamoto Castle presented in a dramatic style
At the Monogatari Goten on the second floor, the history of Kumamoto Castle is introduced through powerful visuals and theatrical performances. Various historical tales related to Kumamoto, such as the construction of Kumamoto Castle by Kato Kiyomasa, the sankin-kotai (alternate attendance) system, and the Satsuma Rebellion, are explained in an easy-to-understand manner through short plays.
The VR footage of Kumamoto Castle realistically depicts its appearance from the Edo period up until before the Kumamoto earthquake. Furthermore, there is live commentary by staff incorporating the latest information on Kumamoto Castle, covering every aspect of the castle.
This is a place you will want to visit when you have plenty of time, such as for preparation before going to Kumamoto Castle or when your schedule suddenly opens up due to rain.
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In the costume experience corner, you can dress up in period costumes such as samurai, princesses, or ninjas and take photos. Costumes are available in sizes from adult to baby, making it perfect for creating family memories.
- Kumamoto Castle Museum Wakuwaku-za
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- 1-1-1 Ninomaru, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture MAP
- Approx. 9-minute walk from the "Kumamoto-jo/Shiyakusho-mae" tram stop
From Kumamoto Station, take the "Shiromegurin" Kumamoto Castle loop bus and get off at "Sakuranobaba Josaien," then it is right there- 9:00–17:30 (Last admission 17:00)
- End of the year (Please check the website for details)
- Admission fee: Adults (high school students and older) 300 yen, elementary/junior high school students 100 yen
- 096-288-5600
- Paid
4Murakami Karashi Renkon Store
Experience making "karashi renkon" (mustard-stuffed lotus root), a dish beloved by the lords of the Kumamoto Domain
"Karashi Renkon" (mustard-stuffed lotus root) is a local flavor beloved by the people of Kumamoto. In Kumamoto, it is cherished as a dish that graces special occasions, such as being a staple of Osechi (New Year's) cuisine. Its history dates back to 1612 (the 9th year of the Kan'ei era). It began when it was presented to the sickly feudal lord, Hosokawa Tadatoshi.
At "Murakami Karashi Renkon Ten," which has been making this deeply historical local dish since 1957 (the 32nd year of the Showa era), you can experience making Karashi Renkon yourself. The process is complete once you quickly stuff the lotus root holes with mustard miso mixed with barley miso, coat it in batter, and deep-fry it until crispy in rapeseed oil. Children can participate alongside adults, making it a food education experience where they can also learn about history.
The sharp, refreshing scent of mustard is proof of its freshness
The rich flavor of the mustard in Karashi Renkon depends on its freshness. At Murakami Karashi Renkon Ten, they carefully stuff the mustard miso in a short amount of time to ensure the flavor is not compromised, and serve it freshly fried.
Furthermore, to preserve the traditional food culture of Karashi Renkon for the next generation, they have created original menu items such as stick-type versions convenient for eating on the go and Karashi Renkon croquettes. In addition to eating it sliced as is, they also suggest new ways to enjoy it, such as in ochazuke (rice with tea) or as a salad ingredient. Be sure to ask about the various ways to enjoy it.
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You can eat the karashi renkon (mustard lotus root) you made during the experience on the spot or take it home. The deliciousness of it being freshly made—the aroma of the mustard, the refreshing spiciness, and the crunchy texture of the lotus root—is exceptional.
- Murakami Karashi Renkon Shop
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- 3-5-1 Shinmachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture MAP
- Approx. 4-minute walk from Urumachi tram stop
- 8:30-17:00
- Saturdays
- Karashi Renkon (mustard lotus root) making experience: 2,000 yen per person *Experience is available for groups of 5 or more between 10:00 and 14:00.
Experience duration is 40–60 minutes - 096-353-6795
- None
5Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Center
A collection of traditional crafts closely tied to daily life in Kumamoto
The museum primarily exhibits traditional crafts from Kumamoto Prefecture and also holds special exhibitions that periodically introduce attractive crafts from both within and outside the prefecture. The museum shop on the first floor, "Kogei Shop Takumi," displays and sells traditional Kumamoto crafts that are closely linked to daily life.
You will find works by approximately 180 artists, including "Higo Zogan" (Higo inlay), ceramics such as "Shodai-yaki" and "Amakusa Ceramics," as well as various local folk toys and woodwork. By seeing and touching these traditional crafts in person, you will be able to feel their charm more deeply.
The refined building designed by a master architect highlights the presence of the crafts
The building, constructed in 1982, was designed by Kiyonori Kikutake, one of Japan's leading architects. Although Kikutake is known for his dynamic designs, he intentionally restrained his signature style here, opting for a simple design that blends into the surrounding environment to ensure the crafts take center stage. It is said that he personally visited various craft production areas throughout the prefecture, believing that "one cannot design a building as a vessel without fully understanding the content and functions of the exhibits." Appreciating Kikutake's high level of creativity and attention to detail is another interesting aspect of the visit.
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The exhibition room on the second floor, which has free admission, is a hidden gem known to those in the know for its panoramic view of Kumamoto Castle. It is secretly popular because you can enjoy it regardless of the weather and view the castle from a different angle than usual.
- Kumamoto Traditional Crafts Center
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- 3-35 Chibajo-machi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture MAP
- Approx. 7-minute walk from Kumamoto-jo/Shiyakusho-mae tram stop
- 9:30–17:30
- Mondays, December 28th to January 4th
- 2nd Floor Special/Permanent Exhibition Room admission: Adults 210 yen, university/junior college/vocational school students 130 yen, high school students and younger free *Admission to other facilities such as the "Craft Shop Takumi" is free
- 096-324-4930
- Free
6Kamitori, Shimotori, and Sunroad Shinshigai
Worry-free even on rainy days. A massive arcade located in the heart of Kumamoto
The three arcade streets in the heart of Kumamoto City—Kamitori, Shimotori, and Sunroad Shinshigai—make up the city's premier downtown area. Extending north from the streetcar line (Prefectural Road 28) is the 360-meter-long, 11-meter-wide Kamitori, while the 511-meter-long, 15-meter-wide Shimotori extends to the south. Continuing further south from Shimotori leads to the 235-meter-long, 18-meter-wide Sunroad Shinshigai.
Each arcade is lined with a wide variety of shops, including select boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Furthermore, there are many hidden gem shops scattered not only on the first floor but also on the second and third floors.
Unique shops are also scattered along the streets extending from the arcade
There are also commercial facilities such as the "Tsuruya Department Store New-S" in Kamitori and the fashion building "COCOSA" in Shimotori. There are so many places to see that you won't be able to visit them all in a single day.
Furthermore, if it is only drizzling, we also recommend exploring the streets that continue from the arcades, such as Namikizaka, which extends north from the end of Kamitori, or Shower Street, which continues south from the end of Shimotori. Shower Street is home to long-established select shops with fans across the country, giving it a "fashion town" feel. If you browse the shops along the street, you might have an unexpected encounter with a store or item that suits your taste.
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Kamitori and Shimotori extend to the north and south across the streetcar line, but Sunroad Shinshigai is directly connected to Shimotori and the arcade continues, making it easy to get around even in bad weather.
- Kamitori, Shimotori, Sunroad Shinshigai
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- Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture MAP
- Varies by store
- Varies by store
- Varies by store
Kamitori https://www.kamitori.com
Shimotori http://shimotoori.com
Sunroad Shinshigai https://shinshigai.com/
Local supporter in charge of this article
- Momoka YamadaKumamoto Native Charm Discovery Team!
OMO5 Kumamoto
Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture
Located in the heart of Kumamoto, this property offers a convenient location within walking distance of Kumamoto Castle and the downtown area. You can also enjoy sightseeing in Aso and Amakusa by taking a 1-2 hour drive.
Access Approx. 1-minute walk from Torichosuji Station on the Kumamoto City Tram
- Accommodation rate example
- Per person per night From ¥7,000