Kumamoto, Japan

Kumamoto City is the capital of Kumamoto Prefecture on the island of Kyushu in south-western Japan and the 15th largest Japanese city. It is approximately six hours from Tokyo by train.

With a history dating back thousands of years, Kumamoto is a hidden paradise offering a perfect combination of stunning, upspoilt natural scenery and a rich tapestry of historic events. Its premier attraction is Kumamoto Castle, one of the most impressive castles in Japan.

Things to see and do

* Mt Aso
* Kumamoto Castle
* Kurokawa Onsen
* Suuizenji garden
* Hearn Residence

General Information

Cruise Season - Jan - Dec
Currency - Yen (JPY)
Language - Japanese
Land area - 389.5 km²
Population - 731,286
Time - GMT/UTC +9 hours
Electricity - 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style or with a round pin below
International Country Code - +81

Transport links
Aso-Kumamoto Airport - shuttle buses make the journey from the airport to town(approx. one hour) There are flights to and from Tokyo Haneda, Tokyo Narita, Osaka Itami, Kansai International, Chubu International, Matsuyama, Naha, Amakusa, Shizuoka, and Seoul.

Kumamoto Railway station is a major stop on the Kyushu Shinkansen line.

Transportation within Kumamoto City and some of its neighbouring towns is accomplished through a fairly extensive bus system and a simple two line tram system. City day passes are available that can be used on both the bus system and tram lines.