Reader’s Question:

Day Trip from Fukuoka to Kumamoto

During Obon, I will be taking a day trip by car from Fukuoka City to Kumamoto. Can you recommend a nice date course? Since it’s hot, it would be great if there
are plenty of cool places to visit. We plan to leave Fukuoka City around 10 AM, and we can return home at any time.

Chillin’ in Kumamoto: A Perfect Day Trip from Fukuoka

Hey there, fellow wanderlust enthusiasts! ✈️ If you’re in the Fukuoka area and looking for a sweet escape, let me tell you about my recent day trip to Kumamoto. Spoiler alert: it’s a total gem of a destination, especially if you’re trying to dodge the summer heat during Obon season. Grab a cold drink, settle in, and let’s dive into this little adventure!

The Road Trip Begins

So, we kicked off our journey around 10 AM. The drive from Fukuoka to Kumamoto is about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic, but don’t worry, the views are pretty nice. We took the Kyushu Expressway, which is quite a breeze. The scenery along the way just screams “Japan!”—think lush green mountains and rice fields that seem to stretch on forever. Perfect for those car karaoke sessions! As we were driving, we laughed about a random travel guide I read that said, “Don’t forget to stop for roadside snacks!” I mean, who could resist a convenience store pitstop? So, we pulled over at one of those charming konbini (convenience stores) and grabbed some ice-cold drinks and onigiri. Seriously, what’s better than munching on rice balls while cruising through the countryside?

First Stop: Kumamoto Castle

Upon reaching Kumamoto, our first stop was the iconic Kumamoto Castle. Now, I’d seen pictures online, but being there in person? Wow. Just wow! The castle is one of Japan’s most impressive feudal castles, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The cool thing is that even if you can’t go inside (due to restoration work), the grounds are still worth exploring. We strolled around the castle, taking in the stunning architecture and the beautifully manicured gardens. It was such a hot day, but the shade from the trees provided a little respite. I snapped a bunch of photos, and trust me, my Instagram feed is thanking me right now! Also, if you’re into history, take a moment to read about the castle’s storied past. The whole vibe is a mix of pride and resilience; it’s impossible not to feel a connection to the place.

Lunch at Shimotori Shopping Arcade

After a good bit of exploring, our stomachs were growling, so we headed over to the Shimotori Shopping Arcade. This place is a foodie paradise! It’s a covered shopping street, so even if the sun is blazing, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and some great eats. We were on the hunt for local specialties, and guess what? We found a little ramen shop that was absolutely packed with locals—a sure sign that we were onto something good. We ordered Kumamoto-style ramen, which is known for its rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth. Let me tell you, it was a bowl of pure happiness! The noodles were perfectly chewy, and the chashu pork melted in my mouth. We also tried some fried gyoza on the side. So good! As we slurped away, we watched the world go by—it was such a fun and vibrant atmosphere.

A Quick Stop at Suizenji Jojuen Garden

After lunch, it was time to cool down a bit, so we set our sights on Suizenji Jojuen Garden. This place is like something out of a dream—it’s a traditional Japanese garden that’s so serene, you can almost hear the peaceful sigh of relaxation. Nestled in the midst of the city, it’s a perfect escape. As we walked along the paths lined with carefully pruned trees, koi fish swimming lazily in the ponds, I felt the heat of the day melting away. The garden features a mini replica of Mount Fuji, which is a cute little touch. We even sat by the water and enjoyed some matcha ice cream—a must-try! It was creamy and refreshing, just what we needed to beat the heat.

Exploring the Streets of Kumamoto

After soaking in the tranquility of the garden, we decided to meander through the streets of Kumamoto. The contrast between the bustling city and the peaceful garden was incredible. We stumbled upon small shops selling unique handmade crafts, from pottery to textile goods. Each store felt like stepping into a treasure trove, and I couldn’t resist picking up a couple of souvenirs—like a cute ceramic cat figurine. Who doesn’t love a little cat charm to take home? We also found a quaint little café that offered cold brew coffee. As coffee lovers, we couldn’t resist stopping in. The café had a lovely patio where we could cool down and watch the world go by. Plus, the barista had the best recommendations for local treats.

Finishing with a Relaxing River Walk

As the day started to wind down, we decided to take a leisurely stroll along the Shirakawa River. The soft sounds of the water and the gentle breeze were the perfect way to unwind from a day of exploring. We watched the sunset paint the sky in hues of pink and orange, which made for a perfect backdrop. We even encountered a couple of locals fishing along the riverbank, and they were so friendly! One guy even offered us some tips on where to fish for the best catch in the area—talk about local insider information!

Heading Back to Fukuoka

As we made our way back to the car, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. It was one of those days that felt just right—the perfect mix of exploring, eating, and relaxing. We hopped back in the car and started the drive home, reminiscing about all the little moments that made the day special. The heat during Obon can be a bit oppressive, but with the right mix of cool spots to visit, it becomes a minor detail in an otherwise perfect day. If you’re considering a day trip from Fukuoka to Kumamoto, I can’t recommend it enough! Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking for a peaceful escape, Kumamoto has a little something for everyone. So, if you’re in the area, grab your partner, your friends, or even just your own adventurous spirit and get ready for a wonderful day trip. You won’t regret it! Until next time, happy travels and may your adventures be just as delightful as mine! 🌏❤️