Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Department

In April 2016, a magnitude 7 earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture in Japan, causing considerable damage, especially to the region's tourism industry. The Japanese government has invested substantial resources and funding to revive Kumamoto’s tourism industry, hoping that tourism revenue will help the affected area recover quickly. However, as some local tourist facilities are still under repair, we have compiled information on the opening status of 10 popular sightseeing spots in Kumamoto. Travelers planning to visit Kumamoto should pay close attention.

Kumamoto City

● Kumamoto Castle - Under Preparation

Kumamoto Castle, which suffered severe damage in the earthquake, saw large sections of stone walls at the entrance to the keep and along the moat collapse. Most areas are currently off-limits to visitors, with initial estimates suggesting it may take 5 to 10 years to complete repairs.

● Kumamoto City Zoological and Botanical Garden - Under Preparation

Although no animals escaped during the earthquake, several facilities within the zoo were damaged, and soil liquefaction occurred. The park is currently closed to the public.

● Kumamoto City Art Museum - Only Free Areas Open

Currently, only the free areas of Kumamoto City Art Museum are open, as some exhibited items were damaged in the earthquake, and other exhibition areas are temporarily closed for repairs.

● Yongyongza - Under Preparation

Due to the impact of the earthquake, the historical and cultural experience facilities inside the venue are temporarily closed, and reopening dates will be announced separately.

Aso Region

● Aso Agricultural Farm - Under Preparation

During the earthquake, Aso Agricultural Farm was used as an evacuation center, and several facilities on the farm were damaged. Active repairs are underway, and it is expected to officially reopen to the public in August.

● Kusahira - Under Preparation

Due to the earthquake, transportation routes to Kusahira were severely damaged, with landslides occurring in some sections. Mountain road repairs have commenced, but completion time is difficult to estimate.

● South Aso Railway - Under Preparation

The beloved South Aso Railway also sustained significant damage in the earthquake and is currently completely out of service. There is no official announcement yet regarding when it will reopen.

Kamiyoshida

● Museum of the Mosasaurus and Dinosaur Fossils in Mifune - Under Preparation

The museum is currently undergoing interior renovations, and the reopening date will be announced separately.

● Tsujun Bridge - Drainage Halted, Nearby Area Off-Limits

Due to the earthquake, Tsujun Bridge has suspended its drainage function, and the surrounding area is off-limits to visitors.

● Suntory Beer Kumamoto Factory - Under Preparation

Currently, all facilities at the Suntory Beer Kumamoto Factory, including the restaurant, shops, and others, have been temporarily suspended. Once all equipment has passed safety inspections, the reopening time and method will be announced.