Kumamoto City

As a port city with several waterways, Kumamoto offers up a few boating opportunities. These include cruises along rivers and lakes and ferry trips that take you further afield. Here is a selection of what you can find in the prefecture. Kuma River The Kuma River is the longest in the Kyushu region, 115 km long and leading out to the Yatsushiro Sea. It’s also a fast-flowing river, considered to be one of the three most rapid rivers in all of Japan. There are several different boating experiences to be had along the river, most of them setting off from the city of Hitoyoshi in Kumamoto prefecture. These range from gentle cruises that take you past beautiful landscapes to thrilling rides such as whitewater rafting during the summer (April-October). Trips start at around 2,000 yen. Find out more information here. Takachiho Gorge Takachiho Gorge offers some of Kyushu’s most beautiful natural scenery, a 7 km stretch running along the Gokase River between Kumamoto and Miyazaki prefectures. One of the best ways to experience the natural wonders, which includes the 17 m high Minainotaki waterfall, is by boat. Options include renting a boat for around 3,000 yen, which you can do…