KUMAMOTO, RIGHT NOW

Kumamoto Castle 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:00; last tower ascent 16:30) Open TodaySpecial Event Today
  • Thu Sep 17 Sunset–22:00, orange World Patient Safety Day (2026) — castle lighting in orange
  • Fri Sep 18 Sunset–22:00, blue Viral hepatitis and liver disease awareness campaign — castle lighting in blue
  • Sat Sep 19 Sunset–22:00, yellow World Childhood Cancer Awareness Campaign 2026 — castle lighting in yellow
  • Sun Sep 20 Regular hours
  • Mon Sep 21 Sunset–22:00, orange World Alzheimer's Day — castle lighting in orange
  • Tue Sep 22 Regular hours
  • Wed Sep 23 Sunset–22:00, blue International Day of Sign Languages — castle lighting in blue
  • Castle is closed on December 29 only.
  • May close on days with severe weather; check official notices for latest information.
  • Weekday access: South Gate only. Weekends/holidays: both North and South Gates available.
  • North Gate entry may be unavailable due to construction; check notices before visiting.
  • Continuous night-time illumination (24-hour lighting) is in effect following 2026 earthquake recovery; color lighting resumes from September 2026 onwards.

Official castle site ↗ · updated 49 minutes ago

Suizenji Garden 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) Open Today
  • Autumn Seasonal Festival with Ancient Martial Arts, Kendo, and Horseback Archery Performance Oct 11 and 18
  • Moon-Viewing Jazz Concert at Suizenji – Kumamoto Earthquake Recovery Support Charity Concert Sep 26

Official Suizenji site ↗ · updated 48 minutes ago

Aso Crater Access Restricted (Level 2)Likely Clear

Eruption Warning Level 2 is in effect with a 1km restricted radius from Nakadake crater. Access is prohibited within 1km of the crater, but visitors may travel to the mountain plaza area during operating hours (currently 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM through October 31).

  • Restricted radius: 1,000 m
  • Crater shuttle bus: Operating
  • Areas affected: Nakadake crater, 山上広場 (Sanjou plaza and surroundings)

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 48 minutes ago

Aso Volcano Guide for Any Condition ↗

Our Tours

updated 48 minutes ago
  • The Essential Kumamoto Castle Tour Next available: Fri, Sep 18
Book a tour ↗

NEWS

K.G ON INSTAGRAM