Kumamon Square | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

Integrated with the Kumamoto bus terminal, SAKURA MACHI Kumamoto is a new landmark combining transportation, shopping, and leisure. Located midway between Kumamoto Station and Kumamoto Castle, it is very convenient to get to.

The complex is filled with major Japanese brands and local specialty foods, making it a great place to browse. This time, I happened to come across a lively “Taiwan Festival” in the outdoor plaza. Sampling familiar snacks and tea drinks from home along the food stalls and experiencing the rich flavors of Taiwan on the streets of another country felt especially comforting and surprising.

At the end of your visit, don’t forget to take a walk through the rooftop garden. Not only is there a huge, round, lovable Kumamon statue to take photos with, but you can also enjoy the breeze while overlooking the sparkling city at night and Kumamoto Castle in the distance. The expansive, romantic view left me with warm memories of this trip to Kumamoto.

Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s most renowned castles, was built by the famous general Kato Kiyomasa. It is known throughout the country for its impregnable stone walls and stately black castle keep, steeped in centuries of history from the Warring States period.

This fortress, which embodies the spirit of Kumamoto, has endured many hardships. After the long and difficult reconstruction following the powerful 2016 earthquake, it unexpectedly faced another major earthquake recently, which was deeply distressing. I sincerely hope that, with everyone’s support, this beautiful castle can once again be restored to its former appearance.

This time, I visited at sunset in October, when the castle grounds were open for special nighttime viewing. As dusk fell, I slowly walked from the lively castle town, looking at the carefully restored and neatly numbered stones and the imposing castle towers. Everywhere, I could see the extraordinary resilience of the people of Kumamoto and the dedication of its craftspeople.

Once night had fully fallen, warm golden lights illuminated the towering black castle keep, making it appear even more mysterious, composed, and majestic against the deep blue night sky. Walking beneath the ancient castle walls in the darkness, I was deeply moved by the spiritual strength of a place that has overcome disaster and continues to stand firm. It left a lasting impression on me.

The area around Kumamoto Station is extremely convenient, and the nearby AMU PLAZA Kumamoto is a major shopping destination.

Inside, you'll find a wide selection of Japanese clothing brands, household goods, and a well-stocked fresh food supermarket, making it a great place to browse and shop. It's also a true dessert paradise. You can try “honeycomb ice cream” topped with a whole piece of real, natural honeycomb, enjoy the exceptionally rich and creamy “ASO MILK” soft serve from Aso, or buy a bottle of milk to savor at your leisure.

After leaving the mall and heading back into the station, don't miss the freshly baked croissants from the popular il FORNO del Mignon, where there's always a line. They're fragrant, crisp, and perfectly browned. Step outside to the station plaza, and you can hop right onto Kumamoto's century-old streetcar and travel through the city to the sound of its cheerful dinging. The connections are seamless, easy, and convenient!