By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department compiled report
In April 2016, a magnitude 7 earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture in Japan, causing considerable damage, particularly dealing a significant blow to Kumamoto’s tourism industry. The Japanese government has invested substantial resources and funding to revive Kumamoto’s tourism industry, hoping that revenue generated through tourism will help the affected region recover its former glory. However, as some local tourist facilities are still under repair, we have compiled information on the opening status of ten popular tourist 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 collapse from the stone walls at the entrance to the keep area and along the moat. Most areas are currently off-limits to visitors, with initial estimates suggesting repairs may take 5 to 10 years.
Kumamoto Castle is temporarily closed for repairs due to earthquake damage. (Image source / Kumamoto Castle)
● Kumamoto City Zoological and Botanical Garden – Under Preparation
Although no animals escaped during the earthquake, the quake caused damage to multiple facilities within the zoo and also resulted in soil liquefaction. 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 the earthquake damaged some exhibits, and other exhibition areas are temporarily closed for repairs.
● Yongyongza – Under Preparation
Affected by the earthquake, the historical and cultural experience facilities inside the venue are temporarily closed, and reopening dates will be announced separately.
The historical and cultural experience facilities inside Yongyongza are temporarily closed. (Image source / Yongyongza)
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, with full reopening expected around August.
● Kusachiri – Under Preparation
Due to the earthquake, external access to Kusachiri was severely impacted, with landslides occurring in some sections. Mountain road repairs have commenced, but completion time remains uncertain.
● South Aso Railway – Under Preparation
The beloved South Aso Railway also sustained serious damage in the earthquake. The line is currently completely suspended, with no announcement yet on when service will resume.
The South Aso Railway sustained serious damage in the earthquake. (Image source / nimo5)
Kamiyoshida
● Museum of the Dinosaurs of Mifune Town – Under Preparation
The museum is currently undergoing internal renovations, and the reopening date will be announced separately.
● Tsujun Bridge – Drainage Halted, Nearby Area Off-Limits
Due to earthquake impact, Tsujun Bridge has temporarily halted drainage operations, and the surrounding area is off-limits to visitors.
The area around Tsujun Bridge is off-limits to visitors. (Image source / find-travel)
● Suntory Beer Kumamoto Factory – Under Preparation
Currently, all facilities at the Suntory Beer Kumamoto Brewery, including the restaurant, shop, and others, are temporarily suspended. The reopening date and method will be announced once all equipment has passed safety inspections.