9 Best Things to Do in Kumamoto in Winter (December to February)

“Kumamoto Prefecture” is a region known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture throughout the four seasons. Especially in the winter season (December to February), you can enjoy snow-covered landscapes, enchanting illuminations, and heartwarming gourmet food. This time, we will introduce the charm of winter in “Kumamoto Prefecture” without leaving anything out.

※ The event schedules introduced may change. Please check the official website of each facility for the latest dates.

About Winter (December to February) in “Kumamoto Prefecture”

Features and Attractions

The winter in “Kumamoto Prefecture” offers a distinct beauty with its clear air and snow-covered landscapes. In the high-altitude areas around “Mount Aso”, you can see frost-covered trees and snow scenery, creating picturesque views like a painting. Additionally, illuminations in “Kumamoto City” and other places light up the night, adding a romantic touch and attracting many tourists.

Climate and Clothing

The winter in “Kumamoto Prefecture” sees daytime temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures dropping close to 0 degrees Celsius. Particularly in mountainous areas, snow can fall, so warm clothing and winter gear are necessary. Thick coats, gloves, and scarves are essential items.

Scenic Spots in Winter

There are many scenic spots in “Kumamoto Prefecture” that you should visit in winter. Here are three highly recommended spots.

Kusasenrigahama

“Kusasenrigahama” is a vast grassland spread out at the northern foot of “Mount Aso”. In winter, it is covered in snow, the ponds freeze, and the surrounding trees are adorned with frost, creating a silver-white world. The contrast between the clear air and the white snow looks like a scene from a movie. The best time to visit is until mid-February.

Uki Shrine

“Uki Shrine” is a historic shrine founded in the year 1001. On winter mornings, the steam rising from the pond and the shrine create a fantastic scene, making it a famous photo spot. Especially on cold winter mornings, it exudes a mystical atmosphere.

Mount Aso

“Mount Aso” is one of Japan’s most famous active volcanoes, offering snow-covered landscapes in winter. Particularly, the snow scenery with the smoking “Nakadake” in the background is spectacular. Due to its high altitude, you can also see frost-covered trees in the winter season, enchanting visitors.

Illumination Spots

The winter in “Kumamoto Prefecture” is marked by illuminations that light up the city, making nighttime walks enjoyable. Here are three particularly recommended spots.

Takamori Spring Tunnel Christmas Fantasy

At the “Takamori Spring Tunnel”, about 50 trees light up inside the tunnel, creating a fantastic atmosphere. The illumination inside the tunnel, which is rare even nationwide, makes you feel like you’ve wandered into another world. On December 21st and 22nd, a “Christmas Tree Contest” will be held where you can win local specialties.

Central Downtown Illumination “Light Pageant” in Kumamoto

In the central downtown area of “Kumamoto City”, arcades and street trees are decorated with illuminations, transforming the winter shopping streets into a romantic scene. The lights are on from 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM, allowing you to enjoy them late into the night. Take a stroll through the city and enjoy the night in “Kumamoto”.

SAKURA MACHI Kumamoto Light Display

At “SAKURA MACHI Kumamoto”, the area around the building is illuminated with vibrant lights, gently coloring the night in “Kumamoto”. The theme changes with each season, allowing you to enjoy diverse light displays. The lights are on from sunset to 11:00 PM, offering different views each time you visit.

Winter Gourmet

One of the joys of winter in “Kumamoto Prefecture” is the delicious gourmet food. Here are some heartwarming dishes perfect for the cold season.

Aso Akagyu Baked Curry (Warokuya)

“Aso Akagyu Baked Curry” is a local curry made with “Aso Akagyu” beef. Topped with mozzarella cheese and baked to perfection, this slightly spicy curry becomes mild with the cheese. It is a warm dish perfect for the cold winter.

Yuagari Shiratama (Shiratama-kko Amami Chaya)

At “Shiratama-kko Amami Chaya” in the center of “Kurokawa Onsen”, you can enjoy authentic shiratama (rice flour dumplings) made with rice from “Aso”. The smooth surface and chewy texture are addictive. It is recommended as a dessert after warming up in the hot springs.

Seafood Spicy Hotpot (Shokusai Hana Akari)

“Shokusai Hana Akari’s” Seafood Spicy Hotpot is a hotpot dish featuring five types of seafood with a spicy kick. The umami of the seafood stands out, warming both body and soul. Other popular dishes include gratin and cocotte made with seasonal vegetables, perfect for winter.