⚠️ Update, 2 November 2026: Kumamon Port Yatsushiro has partly reopened. The Twelve Zodiac Kumamon and the 6-metre giant Kumamon can be visited again, but the "Kumamon Choir" and parts of the green space remain closed after damage in the July 2026 Kumamoto earthquake. Please check Kumamoto Prefecture's official notice (in Japanese) before you go.
Is Kumamon Square in the city too crowded? For road trippers, the ultimate "Kumamon pilgrimage" is Kumamon Port Yatsushiro! It has 84 Kumamon statues in different poses, a 6-metre giant Kumamon and a garden full of Japanese charm. Here's the latest information and driving advice, so you can enjoy this irresistibly cute spot with ease.
Kumamon Port Yatsushiro in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is not only a gateway for international cruise ships but also a place to enjoy sightseeing, play and food all in one. For road-tripping families staying at MOVA VILLA, it's the perfect place to escape the city crowds and spend a relaxed afternoon.
1. Kumamon Port Yatsushiro: 3 highlights not to miss
It's bigger than you'd imagine, with something for adults and kids alike:
1. A great chorus of Kumamon statues
The most spectacular sight is the "Kumamon Choir", dozens of Kumamon in different poses lined up together. The 6-metre giant Kumamon is also a must-photograph landmark.
2. A Japanese garden where tradition meets cuteness
This is an authentic Japanese garden with a bamboo grove, red torii gates and Kumamon statues hiding in every corner (one is even taking a hot spring bath!). The mix of "kawaii culture" and a traditional garden is a sight you'll only find in Yatsushiro.
3. Wide lawns perfect for a picnic
The park has large, well-kept lawns and carefully designed landscape art. It's a perfect picnic spot for big families of 4–8, with views over Yatsushiro Port and a gentle sea breeze.
2. Getting there by car from MOVA VILLA
For road-tripping families, the biggest advantage over city sights is that parking is super easy.
- Driving time: about 50–60 minutes from MOVA VILLA (Koshi, Haramizu and Ozu areas) via the Kyushu Expressway.
- Parking: a very large free car park, with room even for families renting a big MPV (such as an Alphard).
- Suggested plan: enjoy a slow breakfast at your villa, head to Yatsushiro Port at lunchtime for photos and food, stop at nearby Hinagu Onsen for a soak in the late afternoon, then drive back to MOVA VILLA to rest.
3. FAQ
Q1: Is there an entry fee for Kumamon Port Yatsushiro?
A: The park area is currently free to enter (except for special events) – great value.
Q2: Is it busy when a cruise ship is in port?
A: Yes. On cruise days there are many international visitors. Check the Yatsushiro Port cruise schedule before you go, and avoid the times ships are in if you want quieter photos.
Q3: Is it suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?
A: Very. The paths through the park are flat and there are barrier-free facilities.
Q4: Besides photos, what else is there to do?
A: Sometimes there are events where Kumamon makes an appearance – check the official news before you go.
Plan your Kumamoto road trip
Make MOVA VILLA your base for exploring Kumamoto. From Yatsushiro Port's cuteness to the grandeur of Mount Aso, your family's dream holiday starts here.
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