Kumamoto Outdoors

A great option for a day trip if you’re in Kumamoto is Yatsushiro. This is a top destination for learning more about history and culture in Japan. 1. Kirai Art Installment If you arrive at Shin-Yatsushiro Station, the first thing you’ll see will be the Kirai art installment. This modern monument is part of the Kumamoto Artpolis project. It’s made from thin concrete to create a lightweight appearance that resembles paper. 2. Yatsushiro Castle Only the ruins of Yatsushiro Castle remain today — it burned down after lightning struck it in 1672. Although there’s nothing more than a stone wall, the park around the castle is a pleasant place to spend a short time, especially for a picnic lunch. 3. Yatsushiro Municipal Museum In the heart of the city is Yatsushiro Municipal Museum — another structure that is part of the Kumamoto Artpolis project. You’ll find everything related to the history of the city here, including the personal belongings of the Matsui lords, local pottery called Koda yaki, and Miyaji washi paper. There is also a model of Yatsushiro Castle and ancient artifacts from tombs and the castle ruins. 4. Yatsushiro City Center for Folk Performing Arts With a ticket…