Japan is "Totally Fine" – A Historical Tour of Kumamoto and Saga in Kyushu

Written & Photographed by Chi Binghui

Is it really safe to travel to Japan now? It has been over three months since the March 11 earthquake, and although radiation levels in most parts of Japan have long been within safe standards, many people remain cautious, seemingly waiting for more travelers to take the first step before they do.

Japan’s tourism industry, severely hit by the disaster, has seen very few visitors at major attractions. With fewer group tours, only individual travelers remain. For those who want to visit Japan but still have concerns, consider heading to Kyushu, which is as far as 1,500 kilometers from Miyagi. Whether you're interested in ancient ruins, pop culture, or natural scenery, Kyushu caters to all age groups. Plus, with the Kyushu Shinkansen fully operational this year, traveling independently has become much more convenient. The region is eagerly awaiting your visit, proudly declaring, “Japan is totally fine!”

Kyushu comprises seven prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Oita, Kumamoto, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. The region is dotted with volcanoes, and the Aso area in Kumamoto Prefecture boasts the world’s largest active volcanic crater, earning the nickname “Land of Fire.” The area is home to numerous hot springs, and along with Saga Prefecture, it is rich in historical cities where precious documents and relics are well preserved.

For those interested in history and culture, besides visiting the widely known Kumamoto Castle and Saga Castle, the newly opened historical experience park “Shirotoride Yokocho (Castle Colorful Garden)” launched in March this year is also a great choice. It explains history in an easy-to-understand way and offers many fun cultural experiences suitable for family visits.

Kumamoto Castle, a must-visit in Kumamoto, is one of Japan’s three most famous castles. It was built over seven years by Kato Kiyomasa during his time and is known for its towering, thick walls, earning the nickname “the Samurai’s Return.” The castle has two keeps—one large and one small—that visitors can climb for panoramic views. From the six-story-high vantage point, the scenery is vast, offering strategic advantages for both offense and defense. Nowadays, visitors mostly climb the keep to enjoy the lush green surroundings, which is quite a relaxing experience.