Kumamoto Castles

With spring approaching fast, people’s attention starts to Japan’s Hanami season. Hanami means “flower viewing,” and it’s the annual period in Japan, usually around late March and early April when people gather in public spaces to watch the blooming of the country’s cherry blossom (Sakura) trees. Hanami is a centuries-old Japanese tradition, and it’s common for people to gather in parks and other outdoor spaces to celebrate with picnics, parties, and sometimes festivals. If you’re in the Kumamoto area, there are some great Hanami spots. All you need to do is pick one, plan what you will do, and ensure you get there early on the day if you want a spot for a picnic. Hanami’s exact time of year can vary according to the seasonal climate, but it’s usually around the end of March/the start of April. Full bloom (mankai) is typically around the turn of the month. You can use this weather map (in Japanese) to help plan activities. Here are some of the top hanami spots for Kumamoto. Kumamoto Castle Kumamoto’s historic 17th-century castle is one of the city’s big tourist attractions and is considered one of Japan’s three most famous large castles. It’s the most popular…