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Kumamoto Travel Guide
Known as the birthplace of the traditional fighting arts Kobori-ryu, Kumamoto boasts of its plethora of history-steeped attractions peppered in the bustling city proper. Visitors of this coastal metropolis are treated to a warm, rustic feel exuded by the ancient architecture and the friendly locals, although the town also has its fair share of modern amenities such as hotels, cafés, and bars.
Often dubbed as one of Japan's premier fortresses, the overlooking Kumamoto Castle is a replica of the original edifice gutted to the ground during the 19th century Satsuma Rebellion. An elevated attraction is the Honmyo-ji Temple, which is dedicated to the engineer of Kumamoto Castle, Kato Kiyomasa.
Another notable place of interest is the Suizenji Garden, a miniature version of Tokaido, a historic thoroughfare that linked Kyoto and Edo (present-day Tokyo) back in the Tokugawa Era. The iconic Mt. Fuji is also included in the model.
Every last week of March, live music and illuminated sakura (cherry blossoms) and candles line the Hanaokayama Hill in celebration of the local fiesta, the Nighttime Cherry Blossom Festival.
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