200-Year-Old Soy Sauce Manufacturer Rebuilds
Kumamoto Earthquake Historical Shops
In April of 2016, a powerful earthquake rocked Kumamoto, toppling parts of Kumamoto Castle and damaging many other historical sites. One of those was 200-year-old soy sauce maker Hamada Shoyu. This is the story of their historic redesign by Kengo Kumo.
Kumamoto Remembers Quake Victims Amid Pandemic
Kumamoto Earthquake Deeper Japan
A memorial ceremony to mark the 4th anniversary of the Kumamoto earthquake was downsized to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.
Kumamoto Castle Damaged but Standing
Despite two violent earthquakes and numerous strong aftershocks that damaged its walls, 400-year-old Kumamoto castle remains standing.
Kumamoto Earthquake Updates & Donation Info
Information Kumamoto Earthquake
The JNTO is providing regular updates on the situation in Kyushu following the large April 14 and April 16 earthquakes and ongoing aftershocks in the region. Check for the latest information and recommended apps; we now have donation information as well.
Delivering Warm Wishes One Beef Bowl at a Time
Food & Drink Kumamoto Earthquake
Two of Japan's biggest beef bowl chain restaurants provide free comfort food in the wake of the Kumamoto earthquakes.
New Magnitude 7.3 Quake Hits Kyushu
Information Kumamoto Earthquake
A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck the Kyushu region at 1:25 a.m. on Saturday, April 16. This follows the strong April 14 quake that killed nine and left over 1,000 injured. With tremors continuing, there are now 41 dead and 2,000 injured since Thursday.
Manga Messages of Hope & Strength
In the wake of the earthquakes in Kumamoto, manga artists took up their pens to sketch heartwarming messages to the people of the prefecture.
Support Kumamoto by Purchasing a Kit Kat
After the devastating Kumamoto Earthquake in 2016, Kit Kat has teamed up with the region's mascot, Kumamon, and local farmers to produce a unique Kit Kat flavor.
The Kumamoto Castle Reconstruction Efforts
Take a look at some photos from the reconstruction efforts for one of the most time-sensitive projects: restoring the Iidamaru Gokai Yagura, a five-story guard tower that was at risk of imminent collapse.
Magnitude 7 Quake in Kumamoto
Information Kumamoto Earthquake
The Japan Meteorological Agency has reported that an earthquake with a magnitude of 7 on the shaking intensity scale struck Kyushu at 9:26 p.m. on April 14. We recommend using social media and disaster message boards to check on loved ones in the area.
Making Broken Pottery Look Like New
Handicrafts Kumamoto Earthquake
This volunteer craftsman is traveling to Kumamoto to help repair earthquake-damaged family heirlooms free of charge.
