Kumamoto Castle Damaged but Standing
Despite two violent earthquakes and numerous strong aftershocks that damaged its walls, 400-year-old Kumamoto castle remains standing.
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.
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.
Ride 10 Gorgeous Steam Locomotives in Japan
Japan is famous for its modern trains, but it's also a great lover of traditional steam engines.
Japan’s Three Famous Castles
Called 'sanmeijo' in Japanese, the three castles on this list have been chosen based on their significance to history and culture, as well as their scale and grandeur.
Hungry for Ghibli-Style Animation?
If you're hungry for some Ghibli-style animation, look no further than this gorgeous video promoting locally sourced food in Kumamoto—made by the assistant director of 'Princess Mononoke'!
47 Souvenirs from All 47 Prefectures!
Traveling around Japan but don't know what souvenir to buy from each region? We've got you covered with this crazy list of our Top 47 'omiyage' from each of the nation's 47 prefectures!
Japan May Just Have a New Fashion Capital
Tokyo may be Japan's fashion capital, but not for long!
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.
Japan's Top 11 Reconstructed Castles
Like a phoenix rising from the flames, so too have these restored beauties come back to life to prosper again on our list of the best reconstructed castles across Japan.
4 Signature Snacks from Kumamoto
Sweet treats can be found around the world. In addition to being good gifts and satisfying certain cravings, many Japanese sweets boast long tradition and history as well!
Better Know Your Shochu
Learn more about the history, varieties and drinking customs of one of the most typical Japanese alcoholic beverages.
3 Earthy Things to Do in Kumamoto
Here are three great options in the Kumamoto area if you're looking to reconnect with creatures past and present, as well as the earth below!
Ekiben: Symbols of Colorful Local Culture
There was a time in Japanese history when each domain acted practically as its own country. So it's hardly surprising that each area developed its own culture and customs, giving a distinctive flavor and flair to each region.
9 Gorgeous Out-of-the-Way Spots in Kyushu
Kyushu is home to beautiful beaches, smoking volcanoes, bubbling hot springs—and a whole lot more!
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.
Spend a Star-Studded Evening at Kurokawa Onsen
Awarded two stars by the Michelin Green Guide Japan in 2009, Kurokawa Onsen Town is an amazing place to unwind with 24 hot spring baths you can enjoy even as a day visitor, some with very surprising features.
4 Premium Packaged Plants
This great selection highlights the Japanese art of packaged food, where almost anything can find itself inside a plastic wrapper!
