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Kumamoto, situated roughly in the center of Kumamoto Prefecture, is the government and economic center of the prefecture. From the early 17th century to the end of the 19th century, Kumamoto was prosperous as a castle town. The Shira-kawa River and its branches run through the downtown area around Kumamoto Castle. Therefore, the city is called "City of Woods and Fresh Water." Most of Kumamoto Castle, which was designated as a National Historical Site, burned during a war in the late 19th century. The castle tower was rebuilt about 40 years ago. Personal belongings of its lords in different generations, armaments of olden days, etc. are displayed inside the castle tower. The Suizenji Joju-en Garden with a teahouse removed from the Kyoto Imperial Palace is located to the southeast of the castle. The garden, featuring the spots of "Tokaido Goju-san-tsugi," or the Fifty-three Stages of the Tokaido, using the rich subsoil flow of Aso, is a popular place for relaxation for people of Kumamoto.
Well fortified hilltop castle; several original wooden buildings remain
Gentle curtain-like waterfall in Kagoshima countryside
Largest active volcano in Japan and one of the largest in the world
Graceful dance featuring women carrying lanterns on their heads
Mt. Aso and Hot Spring Resorts
Japanese Major Castles
One of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts
Home to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine