July

With a fine selection of beaches, rivers, lakes, gorges, and leisure centers, Kumamoto has many water sports to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a simple swim, a relaxing paddle, or a thrilling, fast-paced adventure, head to this city on the western coast of Kyushu and check out what’s on offer. Swimming and Diving If it’s a swim you’re after, you can try one of the city’s leisure or sports facilities as many of them have pools. One of the most popular is the Aqua Dome in the Minami area. Aqua Dome has a main (50-meter) pool, a smaller (25-meter) pool, and a specialized diving pool open during the summer months by experienced divers. Another good pool is at the Uto City Sports Club. In addition to the 8-lane 50-meter pool, there is a pool for infants and a slider pool. For outdoor swimming in a more natural environment, head to Okoshiki beach in Uto, considered one of Japan’s most beautiful beaches. There is also a great swimming spot on the Kikuchi river in northern Kumamoto. You can access the location by following the signs for the Kikuchi gorge and looking for a left turn marked by a big picture…