Kumamoto 2-Day 1-Night Highlights Tour: A Perfect Blend of Culture, Food and Nature! 🏯

Day 1: Historical Tour and City Walk** After arriving in Kumamoto by the Yokodan Express from Beppu, the first stop is the landmark "Kumamoto Castle". This Momoyama-style castle built by Kato Kiyomasa has been restored after an earthquake. The castle tower displays exquisite armor and castle town models. It is recommended to climb to the top floor to overlook the Aso volcanic peaks. A 10-minute walk will take you to "Jiosaien". You can taste horse meat sashimi (さくら火锅) and red beef croquettes on the Sakura-no-Koji. Don't forget to try the unique Ikinari Danko (sweet potato-filled glutinous rice dessert) in Kumamoto. In the afternoon, go to "Suizenji Jojuen Garden". The circular garden imitates the 53rd station of the Tokaido. Drink the "longevity water" next to the Izumi Shrine, which is said to prolong life. In the evening, go to "Shimodori Shopping Street" to purchase Kumamon-related products. The Kumamoto ramen of "Beirantei" is recommended. The rich garlic-flavored soup base with thin straight noodles is the favorite of locals. **Day 2: Natural wonders and hot spring healing** (Currently, the volcano is under Level 2 control and cannot be entered) In the morning, drive or take the Kyushu Cross-Island Bus to the "Aso Nakadake Crater". You can experience horseback riding along the magnificent Kusa Senri. If volcanic activity permits, take a cable car to see the sulfur smoke of the world's largest caldera up close (need to confirm the opening status on the day). At noon, enjoy organic vegetables and Aso Takana fried rice at Aso Farm Land. The glass dome huts are like a fairy tale town. In the afternoon, transfer to "Kurokawa Onsen". Purchase "Yuyu Tegata" and you can choose 3 secret hot springs to visit. The open-air rock bath of "Sansuiki" is recommended. The valley scenery is beautiful during the maple leaf season. Don't miss the hot spring buns of "YAMAICHI" before returning. The red bean filling is wrapped in bamboo charcoal skin, which is an excellent souvenir. **Accommodation recommendations** If you have enough budget, you can choose the city view room of "Kumamoto New Sky Hotel". The large bath on the rooftop can overlook the night view of Kumamoto Castle. If you want to experience traditional Japanese accommodation, "Aso no Tsukasa" hot spring hotel is recommended, which provides Akagyu Shabu Shabu Kaiseki cuisine and a cave bath made of volcanic lava. **Practical Tips** • Use the "Kumamoto City Bus One-Day Pass" (800 yen) to take unlimited city routes • Save 300 yen with the Kumamoto Castle and Suizenji Jojuen Garden package • The temperature in the Aso area is 5-8 degrees lower than the city, so you need to prepare a windproof jacket • Kurokawa Onsen has many steep stone roads, so it is recommended to wear non-slip shoes In just two days, you can experience the diverse charm of Kumamoto, from the Warring States legacy to the geological wonders, and finally end with the misty hot springs, leaving behind a travel memory full of Kyushu characteristics.