Located in central Kyushu, Kumamoto is a stunning destination that blends majestic volcanic landscapes, hot spring resorts, historic castles, and rustic countryside charm. Whether you're flying from Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, or within Japan, reaching Kumamoto is easier than ever.
This guide helps you plan your ideal Kumamoto trip, covering international and domestic flight access, local transportation, car rental tips, scenic self-driving routes, must-see attractions, and hotel recommendations across Aso, Takachiho, Kurokawa, Yufuin, and more. From first-time visitors to seasoned travelers, this guide has everything you need for an unforgettable Kyushu journey.
How to Get to Kumamoto
Flying to Kumamoto Airport (KMJ) Kumamoto Airport is accessible via multiple domestic and select international routes:
From Tokyo (Haneda or Narita): ANA, JAL, Solaseed Air (approx. 1.5–2 hrs)
From Osaka (Itami or Kansai): JAL, ANA, Jetstar Japan
From Seoul (Incheon): T’way Air (direct)
From Taipei (Taoyuan): China Airlines, Tigerair Taiwan (direct)
From Shanghai (Pudong): China Eastern Airlines (seasonal)
Flying to Fukuoka Airport (FUK) Fukuoka Airport is a major international hub in Kyushu with more frequent flights:
From Seoul, Busan, Hong Kong, Taipei, Bangkok, Singapore, Manila
From Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Sapporo
From Fukuoka, take the JR Kyushu Shinkansen to Kumamoto (approx. 40–50 mins).
Flying to Miyazaki Airport (KMI) While less common, Miyazaki Airport can be a unique entry point:
From Tokyo, Osaka (JAL, ANA, Solaseed Air)
From Taipei (China Airlines)
From Miyazaki, Kumamoto is around 2–2.5 hours away by car or bus.
Kumamoto Airport to City
Kumamoto Airport (Aso Kumamoto Airport) is located on the eastern side of the city. You can reach the city center by:
Airport Limousine Bus: Direct to Kumamoto Station in about 50 minutes; fare approximately 800-1000 JPY.
Car Rental: Several rental agencies are available at the airport. Ideal for travelers planning to explore rural or scenic areas.
Trains: JR Kumamoto Station is a major transport hub with access to:
The JR Kagoshima Main Line (connects to Hakata/Fukuoka and Kagoshima)
The JR Hōhi Main Line (connects to Aso and Oita)
The Shinkansen for fast access to Fukuoka, Kagoshima, or Shin-Osaka.
Key destinations accessible by local transit include:
Kumamoto Castle: Short walk from Kumamoto Castle/Municipal Office tram stop.
Shimotori/Kamitori Shopping Arcades: Easily reached by tram (Karashimacho or Suidocho).
Suizenji Garden: Take the tram to Shin-Suizenji Station.
IC cards like Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA are accepted on trams, buses, and JR lines, making transfers seamless for travelers.
Klook - Japan Shinkansen Tickets
Klook - JR Pass for Whole Japan Free (eSIM/Buy tickets and get 10 off Japan attractions)
Internet & Payment Options in Japan
SIM Cards & eSIM: Buy a SIM or eSIM in advance from providers like Airalo, Ubigi, or local carriers (SoftBank, Docomo, au). They work well across Japan.
Transportation & Mobile Payments: Use Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA cards for trains, buses, and convenience stores. Mobile payments like Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPay, and most international credit cards are widely accepted.
This guide helps you plan your ideal Kumamoto trip, covering international and domestic flight access, local transportation, car rental tips, scenic self-driving routes, must-see attractions, and hotel recommendations across Aso, Takachiho, Kurokawa, Yufuin, and more. From first-time visitors to seasoned travelers, this guide has everything you need for an unforgettable Kyushu journey.
How to Get to Kumamoto
Flying to Kumamoto Airport (KMJ) Kumamoto Airport is accessible via multiple domestic and select international routes:
From Tokyo (Haneda or Narita): ANA, JAL, Solaseed Air (approx. 1.5–2 hrs)
From Osaka (Itami or Kansai): JAL, ANA, Jetstar Japan
From Seoul (Incheon): T’way Air (direct)
From Taipei (Taoyuan): China Airlines, Tigerair Taiwan (direct)
From Shanghai (Pudong): China Eastern Airlines (seasonal)
Flying to Fukuoka Airport (FUK) Fukuoka Airport is a major international hub in Kyushu with more frequent flights:
From Seoul, Busan, Hong Kong, Taipei, Bangkok, Singapore, Manila
From Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Sapporo
From Fukuoka, take the JR Kyushu Shinkansen to Kumamoto (approx. 40–50 mins).
Flying to Miyazaki Airport (KMI) While less common, Miyazaki Airport can be a unique entry point:
From Tokyo, Osaka (JAL, ANA, Solaseed Air)
From Taipei (China Airlines)
From Miyazaki, Kumamoto is around 2–2.5 hours away by car or bus.
Kumamoto Airport
Kumamoto Airport (Aso Kumamoto Airport) is located on the eastern side of the city. You can reach the city center by:
Airport Limousine Bus: Direct to Kumamoto Station in about 50 minutes; fare approximately 800-1000 JPY.
Car Rental: Several rental agencies are available at the airport. Ideal for travelers planning to explore rural or scenic areas.
Klook - Aso Kumamoto Airport - Kumamoto City Shuttle Bus Ticket with Wakuwaku 1 Day Pass
See also: Fukuoka Airport Transfer Prices to/from Popular Destinations in the City
Getting Around Kumamoto City
Kumamoto City offers a convenient and accessible public transportation system that makes exploring the city easy even without a car.
Trams (Streetcars): The Kumamoto City Tram operates two main lines, covering major stops such as Kumamoto Station, Suidocho, Karashimacho, Kumamoto Castle/Municipal Office, and Shin-Suizenji. Trams are frequent and affordable, with a flat fare of around 170 JPY.
Buses: City and intercity buses operated by companies like Sanko Bus connect various parts of Kumamoto, including Kumamoto Airport, Kumamoto Station, and popular tourist sites.
See also: Fukuoka Airport Transfer Prices to/from Popular Destinations in the City
Bus stops at Kumamoto Airport
Getting Around Kumamoto City
Kumamoto City offers a convenient and accessible public transportation system that makes exploring the city easy even without a car.
Trams (Streetcars): The Kumamoto City Tram operates two main lines, covering major stops such as Kumamoto Station, Suidocho, Karashimacho, Kumamoto Castle/Municipal Office, and Shin-Suizenji. Trams are frequent and affordable, with a flat fare of around 170 JPY.
Buses: City and intercity buses operated by companies like Sanko Bus connect various parts of Kumamoto, including Kumamoto Airport, Kumamoto Station, and popular tourist sites.
Kumamoto Tram Station
Trains: JR Kumamoto Station is a major transport hub with access to:
The JR Kagoshima Main Line (connects to Hakata/Fukuoka and Kagoshima)
The JR Hōhi Main Line (connects to Aso and Oita)
The Shinkansen for fast access to Fukuoka, Kagoshima, or Shin-Osaka.
Key destinations accessible by local transit include:
Kumamoto Castle: Short walk from Kumamoto Castle/Municipal Office tram stop.
Shimotori/Kamitori Shopping Arcades: Easily reached by tram (Karashimacho or Suidocho).
Suizenji Garden: Take the tram to Shin-Suizenji Station.
IC cards like Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA are accepted on trams, buses, and JR lines, making transfers seamless for travelers.
Klook - Japan Shinkansen Tickets
Klook - JR Pass for Whole Japan Free (eSIM/Buy tickets and get 10 off Japan attractions)
Klook - Kyushu SunQ Pass
JR Lines
Internet & Payment Options in Japan
SIM Cards & eSIM: Buy a SIM or eSIM in advance from providers like Airalo, Ubigi, or local carriers (SoftBank, Docomo, au). They work well across Japan.
Transportation & Mobile Payments: Use Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA cards for trains, buses, and convenience stores. Mobile payments like Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPay, and most international credit cards are widely accepted.
Klook - Unlimited eSIM Japan | NTT DOCOMO
Japan Car Rental Guide
Required Documents:
International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention
Your valid national driver’s license
Passport
Make sure to check if your country is eligible for driving in Japan. Countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, France, and Australia are supported with the IDP. Visitors from Belgium, France, Germany, Monaco, Switzerland, and Taiwan must bring an official Japanese translation instead of an IDP.
Japan Car Rental Guide
Required Documents:
International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention
Your valid national driver’s license
Passport
Make sure to check if your country is eligible for driving in Japan. Countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, France, and Australia are supported with the IDP. Visitors from Belgium, France, Germany, Monaco, Switzerland, and Taiwan must bring an official Japanese translation instead of an IDP.
Klook - Kumamoto car rentals
Driving Tips for Foreign Travelers:
Reserve your rental car in advance: Especially during weekends and holidays, vehicles can be booked out quickly.
Choose pick-up locations near your hotel: Many rental companies have downtown offices, making it convenient to collect your car without returning to the airport.
One-way rentals available: You can often pick up a car in Kumamoto and drop it off in another city, such as Fukuoka or Miyazaki. This is perfect for flexible itineraries.
Recommended rental companies: Toyota Rent a Car, Times Car Rental, Nippon Rent-A-Car, Orix Rent-A-Car, Nissan Rent a Car.
Aso Region: Great for nature lovers and hot springs; stay in Aso Onsen, Uchinomaki Onsen, or Minami Aso guesthouses.
Kurokawa Onsen: A popular traditional hot spring town known for its nostalgic vibe. Perfect for slow travel.
Takachiho: Quaint countryside with scenic gorges. Stay in local inns for an immersive experience.
Yufuin: A fusion of art and hot springs. Relax at boutique ryokans or lakeside hotels.
Yufuin
Nestled at the base of Mt. Yufu, Yufuin is popular for its artistic vibe, hand-crafted sweets, and attractions like Kinrin Lake and Yufuin Floral Village.
Amakusa Dolphin Watching
Located southwest of Kumamoto, Amakusa offers dolphin cruises with a high chance of spotting wild dolphins—great for families.
Yanagawa River Cruise & Unagi Cuisine
A charming canal town in Fukuoka Prefecture, Yanagawa is known for its scenic boat tours along historic waterways. A traditional gondolier guides you through the serene canals lined with willow trees and old merchant houses—especially beautiful during spring cherry blossom season or autumn foliage. After the cruise, try Yanagawa's famed specialty: unagi no seiromushi, a steamed eel dish served over rice in a lacquered box. It's one of the most iconic local delicacies in Kyushu.
Whether you're drawn to stunning nature, soothing hot springs, or rich cultural experiences, Kumamoto and its surroundings have it all. If you're planning a Kyushu adventure, let Kumamoto be your starting point for a journey filled with mountains, oceans, and unforgettable discoveries!
One of the car rental companies
Driving Tips for Foreign Travelers:
Reserve your rental car in advance: Especially during weekends and holidays, vehicles can be booked out quickly.
Choose pick-up locations near your hotel: Many rental companies have downtown offices, making it convenient to collect your car without returning to the airport.
One-way rentals available: You can often pick up a car in Kumamoto and drop it off in another city, such as Fukuoka or Miyazaki. This is perfect for flexible itineraries.
Recommended rental companies: Toyota Rent a Car, Times Car Rental, Nippon Rent-A-Car, Orix Rent-A-Car, Nissan Rent a Car.
Japan drives on the left side; steering wheel is on the right.
Speed limits are strictly enforced (often 50 km/h in cities).
Many gas stations have attendants and accept credit cards.
Mountain roads are narrow—compact or small SUVs are recommended.
Navigation systems often support English, or you can use Google Maps.
Estimated prices by car type (per day):
Compact cars: ¥6,000–¥8,000
Mid-size cars: ¥8,000–¥11,000
Minivans/SUVs: ¥11,000–¥15,000
Luxury or 4WD cars: ¥15,000 and up
Recommended Kumamoto Self-Driving Route (2–3 Days)
Day 1: Kumamoto City → Aso Volcano
Depart from central Kumamoto
Shirakawa Spring: Renowned for crystal-clear spring water
Aso Shrine: Over 2,000 years of history and unique architecture
Kusasenri Meadow: Wide grassland ideal for photos and horseback riding
Aso Crater: A powerful volcanic landscape (check for activity restrictions)
Daikanbo Lookout: Panoramic views of Mt. Aso and outer caldera
Stay overnight in Kurokawa Onsen or the Aso region
Day 2: Aso → Takachiho Gorge
Head to Takachiho (approx. 1.5 hrs via Route 325)
Takachiho Gorge: Explore dramatic cliffs and clear streams by boat
Takachiho Shrine: A sacred site from Japanese mythology
Stay overnight in Takachiho or extend the trip to Yufuin
Day 3: Takachiho → Yufuin → Kumamoto
Yufuin Onsen: Enjoy art galleries, cafes, and scenic Kinrin Lake
Return to Kumamoto City
Where to Stay in Kumamoto & Surrounding Areas
Kumamoto City: Ideal for first-time visitors; stay near Kumamoto Station or the Kamitori/Shimotori shopping streets.
Estimated prices by car type (per day):
Compact cars: ¥6,000–¥8,000
Mid-size cars: ¥8,000–¥11,000
Minivans/SUVs: ¥11,000–¥15,000
Luxury or 4WD cars: ¥15,000 and up
Recommended Kumamoto Self-Driving Route (2–3 Days)
Day 1: Kumamoto City → Aso Volcano
Depart from central Kumamoto
Shirakawa Spring: Renowned for crystal-clear spring water
Aso Shrine: Over 2,000 years of history and unique architecture
Kusasenri Meadow: Wide grassland ideal for photos and horseback riding
Aso Crater: A powerful volcanic landscape (check for activity restrictions)
Daikanbo Lookout: Panoramic views of Mt. Aso and outer caldera
Stay overnight in Kurokawa Onsen or the Aso region
Day 2: Aso → Takachiho Gorge
Head to Takachiho (approx. 1.5 hrs via Route 325)
Takachiho Gorge: Explore dramatic cliffs and clear streams by boat
Takachiho Shrine: A sacred site from Japanese mythology
Stay overnight in Takachiho or extend the trip to Yufuin
Day 3: Takachiho → Yufuin → Kumamoto
Yufuin Onsen: Enjoy art galleries, cafes, and scenic Kinrin Lake
Return to Kumamoto City
Where to Stay in Kumamoto & Surrounding Areas
Kumamoto City: Ideal for first-time visitors; stay near Kumamoto Station or the Kamitori/Shimotori shopping streets.
Hotels near Kamitori/Shimotori
Hotel Wing International Select Kumamoto See details
Hotels near JR Kumamoto Station
Agoda - Top 10 Kumamoto hotels
Trip.com - Budget hotels in Kumamoto
Grand Fresa Hotels
Aso Region: Great for nature lovers and hot springs; stay in Aso Onsen, Uchinomaki Onsen, or Minami Aso guesthouses.
Hotel Recommendations:
Agoda - Top 10 hotels in Aso
Trip.com - Hotels in Aso
Hotels with moutain view
Kurokawa Onsen: A popular traditional hot spring town known for its nostalgic vibe. Perfect for slow travel.
Recommendations:
Agoda - Top 10 hotel recommendations
Trip.com - Hotel recommendations
Takachiho: Quaint countryside with scenic gorges. Stay in local inns for an immersive experience.
Recommendations:
Onyado Harume See details
Agoda - Top 10 hotels
Trip.com - Hotels in Takachiho
Minsu with Japanies style
Yufuin: A fusion of art and hot springs. Relax at boutique ryokans or lakeside hotels.
Recommendations:
Klook.com
Must-See Attractions in Kumamoto & Central Kyushu
Aso Volcano
One of the world’s largest volcanic calderas, Mt. Aso remains active. Hike through Kusasenri and gaze at the crater (check access in advance). Visit Daikanbo for incredible panoramic views.
Must-See Attractions in Kumamoto & Central Kyushu
Aso Volcano
One of the world’s largest volcanic calderas, Mt. Aso remains active. Hike through Kusasenri and gaze at the crater (check access in advance). Visit Daikanbo for incredible panoramic views.
Recommendations:
GetYourGuide- Fukuoka: Mt. Aso Volcano, Kusasenri & Grasslands Day Tour
Kumamoto Castle
One of Japan’s three major castles, rebuilt after the 2016 earthquake. The castle tower now houses exhibitions on Kumamoto’s history.
Aso Volcano
Kumamoto Castle
One of Japan’s three major castles, rebuilt after the 2016 earthquake. The castle tower now houses exhibitions on Kumamoto’s history.
Recommendations:
GetYourGuide- Kumamoto: Kumamoto Castle Guided Walking Tour 90min
Kamitori & Shimotori Shopping Arcades
Located near Kumamoto Castle, this vibrant area offers shopping, local food, cosmetics, and nightlife options.
Takachiho Gorge
Famous for dramatic basalt cliffs and emerald waters. Take a rowboat through the gorge or stroll along walking trails to enjoy waterfalls and natural beauty.
Kurokawa Onsen
Known for its "onsen pass" that lets you experience various outdoor baths in different ryokans. The nostalgic townscape adds to the charm.
Kumamoto Castle
Kamitori & Shimotori Shopping Arcades
Located near Kumamoto Castle, this vibrant area offers shopping, local food, cosmetics, and nightlife options.
Kamitori & Shimotori Shopping Streets
Takachiho Gorge
Famous for dramatic basalt cliffs and emerald waters. Take a rowboat through the gorge or stroll along walking trails to enjoy waterfalls and natural beauty.
Recommendations:
Takachiho Gorge
Kurokawa Onsen
Known for its "onsen pass" that lets you experience various outdoor baths in different ryokans. The nostalgic townscape adds to the charm.
Recommendations:
Yufuin
Nestled at the base of Mt. Yufu, Yufuin is popular for its artistic vibe, hand-crafted sweets, and attractions like Kinrin Lake and Yufuin Floral Village.
Recommendations:
GetYourGuide- From Fukuoka: Nyoirinji Temple, Beppu Hells and Yufuin
Amakusa Dolphin Watching
Located southwest of Kumamoto, Amakusa offers dolphin cruises with a high chance of spotting wild dolphins—great for families.
Recommendations:
GetYourGuide- Kumamoto: Dolphin Watching and Zipline Experience Tour
Dolphin Watching boat
Yanagawa River Cruise & Unagi Cuisine
A charming canal town in Fukuoka Prefecture, Yanagawa is known for its scenic boat tours along historic waterways. A traditional gondolier guides you through the serene canals lined with willow trees and old merchant houses—especially beautiful during spring cherry blossom season or autumn foliage. After the cruise, try Yanagawa's famed specialty: unagi no seiromushi, a steamed eel dish served over rice in a lacquered box. It's one of the most iconic local delicacies in Kyushu.
Recommendations:
Yanagawa River with Cherry Brossom
Whether you're drawn to stunning nature, soothing hot springs, or rich cultural experiences, Kumamoto and its surroundings have it all. If you're planning a Kyushu adventure, let Kumamoto be your starting point for a journey filled with mountains, oceans, and unforgettable discoveries!
See also:
GetYourGuide - Our most recommended things to do in Kumamoto
Trip.com - Things to do in Kumamoto Prefecture
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