Understand

Yatsushiro, the second largest city in Kumamoto prefecture, stands as Japan's primary producer of the igusa grass, essential for crafting traditional tatami mats. This bustling city not only showcases its vibrant urban landscape but also embraces its cultural heritage. Visitors will marvel at the intricate process of igusa grass cultivation and witness the meticulous craftsmanship in producing these iconic tatami mats. Yatsushiro's dedication to preserving and promoting its traditional industries makes it an extraordinary destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Japan's rich cultural legacy.

Get in

Yatsushiro station serves as the final stop on the JR Kagoshima Line from Hakata in Fukuoka. Additionally, it is a station on the Hisatsu Orange Railway. For travelers coming from Fukuoka, the best way to reach Yatsushiro is by taking a Shinkansen train. There are two options available: the Sakura or Tsubame. The journey from Fukuoka to Shin-Yatsushiro, a station to the northeast of Yatsushiro, takes approximately 49 minutes and costs Y5140. From there, you can easily transfer to a local train bound for Yatsushiro. If you are starting your journey from Kumamoto, you have the choice between a regular local train, which takes about 40 minutes and costs 720 yen, or a faster Shinkansen train, which takes only 12 minutes and costs 1460 yen. It's worth noting that all of these travel options are covered under the Japan Rail Pass, offering visitors even more convenience and affordability when exploring this beautiful region.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing