If you come to Japan, you're missing out if you don't see these views! A summary of the stunning spots on the island of Amakusa

What is the scenic spot "Amakusa"?

"Amakusa" is a group of beautiful islands in the southwest of Kumamoto Prefecture, located in the center of Kyushu. The islands are known for their crystal clear waters and natural beauty, and dolphin watching and sunsets are popular. There are also historic churches and hot springs, making it a place where you can enjoy culture and nature. Time flows quietly and leisurely, soothing the soul.

Recommended for those traveling by car from Fukuoka Airport or Aso Kumamoto Airport.

Many foreign tourists visit tourist spots all over Japan, but not many visit Amakusa. Therefore, this island is recommended for those who have been to Japan multiple times.

How to get to Amakusa

How to get to Amakusa from Aso Kumamoto Airport

First, fly to Aso Kumamoto Airport, which has direct flights from Haneda Airport and overseas (Taiwan, Korea, Hong Kong).

The closest airport to Amakusa: Aso Kumamoto Airport (Domestic flights)

The closest airport to Amakusa: Aso Kumamoto Airport (overseas)

We have also created a model itinerary for how to get from Aso Kumamoto Airport to Amakusa, so please refer to this as well.

Depart from Aso Kumamoto Airport! Amakusa 1 night 2 day island trip (World Heritage Site, dolphin watching)

How to get to Amakusa (by bus or rental car)

Please see below for information on how to get there from Kumamoto city by bus or train.

How to get from Kumamoto to Amakusa

"Amakusa" scenic spots that you'll want to brag about

Amakusa is rich in nature and has a quintessentially Japanese landscape. We will introduce you to some scenic spots that you will want to brag about to your friends and share on social media. Please visit Amakusa, which is still little known to the world, and see, feel, and enjoy it.

Kuratake Shrine

Kuratake Shrine

861-6402 3409-1 Tanasoko, Kuratake-cho, Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefect...

Kuratake, the highest peak in the Amakusa Islands (682m above sea level), has been revered as a sacred mountain by the people of Amakusa since ancient times. At the summit is Kuratake Shrine, which was built to pray for safe fishing. Below you can enjoy a spectacular view of the calm waters of the Yatsushiro Sea and Ariake Sea, as well as the islands of Goshoura. You can feel the majestic nature of Amakusa with your whole body.

Kuratake Shrine is a shrine located in Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, at the summit of Mount Kuratake, which is 682 meters above sea level. It has long been worshipped by people as a place to pray for safe fishing and ship voyages. From the top of the mountain, you can see beautiful views of the sea and islands, and on clear days you can even see the distant mountain (Unzen). There is also a spring called "Kuratake Reisui" at the top of the mountain, and it is loved as a sacred place. It is a place where you can feel nature and traditional culture.

Elephant Rock and Cherry Blossoms

Myokenura in Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is affectionately known as "Elephant Rock" (Zousan Rock) because the rock floating in the sea resembles the shape of an elephant. Myokenura has been designated a national scenic spot and natural monument, and is a scenic spot where natural beauty spreads, such as cliffs on the ria coast and sea caves. It is also a popular spot for enjoying marine sports such as scuba diving and SUP . At dusk, the silhouette of Elephant Rock, together with the sun setting over the sea, creates a fantastic landscape that impresses all visitors.

Kawaura Town Cherry Blossom Tree Line

About 200 Yoshino cherry trees are planted along the Ichimachida River in Kawaura Town, Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture, and in spring you can enjoy a beautiful row of cherry trees. Nearby is the World Heritage Site of Sakitsu Village.

Okoshiki Beach

Okoshiki Beach in Uto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, on the way to Amakusa, is known for its natural artwork created by the tidal range of the Ariake Sea. At low tide, crescent-shaped sand patterns drawn by the wind and waves appear on the sand, creating a fantastic sight especially when they overlap with the setting sun. Due to its beauty, it has been selected as one of the "100 Best Beaches in Japan" and "100 Best Sunsets in Japan," attracting many photography enthusiasts. The name comes from the legend that Emperor Keiko was so moved by the beauty of the beach that he stopped his mikoshi (portable shrine). It is about a 15-minute walk from Amida Station on the JR Mikata Line.

Amakusa Five Bridges

The Amakusa Five Bridges are a popular driving route that links the Uto Peninsula in Kumamoto Prefecture to the Amakusa Islands. Each bridge has a different structure and blends in with the surrounding archipelago scenery. Especially at dusk, the views are stunning with the beautiful sunset, and the area has been selected as one of the "100 Best Sunsets in Japan." It's a great spot for driving and sightseeing.

World Heritage Site "Sakitsu Village"

Sakitsu Shuraku, a small seaside fishing village in Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is a place where Christian faith has been secretly preserved since ancient times. In 2018, it was registered as a World Heritage Site. Sakitsu Church, located within the village, is a beautiful church built in 1934, with a rare structure that has tatami floors. It is popular as a quiet and calming place where the church and fishing village scenery are integrated. On winter mornings, you can see the morning mist as shown in the image.

Recommended Amakusa accommodations for your trip

There are various accommodations in the center of Amakusa, which is the best place to travel. There are accommodations for families, long-term stays, resort hotels, etc. For more information, please see the article below.

Recommended accommodations in Amakusa