KUMAMOTO, RIGHT NOW

Kumamoto Castle 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:00; last ascent to main tower 16:30) Open TodayIllumination Tonight
  • Wed Oct 28 Sunset–sunrise, all-night illumination
  • Thu Oct 29 21:00–22:00, World Stroke Day
  • Fri Oct 30 Regular hours
  • Sat Oct 31 21:00–22:00, Pink Ribbon
  • Sun Nov 1 Regular hours
  • Mon Nov 2 Regular hours
  • Tue Nov 3 Regular hours
  • Castle closed December 29 annually.
  • Rainy weather may cause closure; check latest news for updates.
  • All-night illumination currently implemented following the 2026 Kumamoto earthquake; colour lighting schedule may change.
  • Weekdays: south gate entry/exit only. Weekends/holidays: both north and south gates available.
  • North gate may be temporarily closed depending on construction progress.
  • Special autumn castle festival (秋のくまもとお城まつり) held in autumn with extended hours and lighting; currently suspended due to restoration work.
  • Mizuakari (candle-light festival) held in October across Kumamoto Castle surroundings and nearby streets.

Official castle site ↗ · updated 11 hours ago

Suizenji Garden 8:30–17:00 (last admission 16:30) Open Today

No special events currently listed.

Official Suizenji site ↗ · updated 5 hours ago

Aso Crater Access Restricted (Level 2)Likely Clear

The crater area is under Level 2 Eruption Warning with a 1km restricted zone around Nakadake crater—visitors cannot enter this area. However, the crater-view shuttle bus and park road are operating during daytime hours (currently 8:30 AM–6:00 PM through October 31), allowing access to the mountain plaza and surrounding areas outside the restricted radius.

  • Restricted radius: 1,000 m
  • Crater shuttle bus: Operating
  • Areas affected: Nakadake first crater, Mountain plaza (Sanjou hiroba) and surrounding area

Traffic/Parking (schedule estimate, not live sensor data): No particular reason to expect crowding right now -- a weekday outside peak season and peak hours.

Official Aso regulation status ↗ · updated 5 hours ago

Aso Volcano Guide for Any Condition ↗

Our Tours

updated 5 hours ago
  • The Essential Kumamoto Castle Tour Next available: Wed, Oct 28
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