Kumamoto

Kumamoto refers to Kumamoto Prefecture and its capital city, located in the central part of Kyushu, Japan. The prefecture is bordered by Nagasaki, Fukuoka, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima prefectures. Kumamoto City, the prefectural capital, is the largest urban center and administrative hub. The region features a mix of agricultural plains and mountainous areas surrounding the Aso caldera, a prominent volcanic complex.

Kumamoto has a long history dating to feudal Japan. The city’s landmark Kumamoto Castle, rebuilt in the early 17th century by Kato Kiyomasa, was one of Japan’s strongest castles, though it suffered heavy damage in the 2016 earthquakes and has undergone extensive restoration. Suizenji Jojuen, a traditional garden in Kumamoto City, preserves a landscape that evokes historic travel routes. The prefecture is also known for its regional cuisine and traditional crafts, as well as its mascot Kumamon, created to promote regional commerce.

Kumamoto is a regional educational center, home to Kumamoto University and several other institutions. The economy combines agriculture, manufacturing, and services, with tourism playing a growing role due to natural and cultural attractions. Transportation infrastructure includes the Kyushu Shinkansen, which connects Kumamoto with Hakata and Kagoshima-Chuo, along with ferries and local rail lines, and Kumamoto Airport for air travel. The area continues to rebuild after the 2016 earthquakes, with ongoing efforts to preserve cultural heritage and support residents.