All Reviews of Kamitori, Kumamoto City Central Shopping Arcade

Compared with the lively and bustling Shimotori Shopping Arcade, Kamitori Shopping Arcade has a more elegant and relaxed everyday atmosphere. Its high, spacious, and bright arcade has fewer tourists, making it very comfortable and pleasant to stroll through.

Many hidden gems are tucked away inside the shopping arcade, such as the century-old Nagasaki Bookstore and Kumamoto Yatai Village, which brings together local cuisine and a lively atmosphere. Both are great places to slow down and browse leisurely in the early evening.

This time, I happened to stay at a comfortable apartment hotel next to the shopping arcade with views of Kumamoto Castle, so the arcade was just around the corner. From the hotel's rooftop, you can take in the beautiful sunset turning the Kumamoto cityscape red, and after dark, quietly admire Kumamoto Castle illuminated by soft lights. I recommend staying near Kamitori Shopping Arcade—it makes for an excellent lodging experience.

This time, I joined a special guided tour arranged by the hotel and followed the guide into the Kamitori Shopping Arcade, which is full of local everyday life. Strolling through the streets wasn’t just about shopping; the tour also introduced us to Kumamoto’s history, culture, and daily scenery. The area is lined with all kinds of shops, cafés, and long-established businesses, blending tradition and modernity and showcasing Kumamoto’s unique urban charm.

The most impressive stop was Jobundo Kawashima Bookstore, founded in 1877. This nearly 150-year-old bookstore not only sells books but also houses many old documents, antique maps, prints, and valuable historical materials related to Kyushu and Kumamoto. It’s like a cultural treasure trove preserving local memories. Cultural figures such as Natsume Soseki and Lafcadio Hearn are also said to have visited!

On our first night in Kumamoto, we stayed at Onyado Nono. Kamitori Shopping Arcade was right next door, bustling with people and full of energy. There were all kinds of food, izakayas, drugstores, and fresh fruit and vegetable shops (how could we miss the sweet, juicy peaches and grapes this season? 🤤)

From City Hall, where Kamitori and Shimotori meet, you can see Kumamoto Castle in the distance. Its warm lights symbolize the resilient, gentle yet strong spirit of this city.

One of the liveliest spots in Kumamoto. Food, shopping, and plenty to browse—all in one place.

The shopping arcade is super long and very comfortable to walk through, and the roof is a huge plus when it rains.