Hitoyoshi – train, hot springs and heritage

Hitoyoshi in Kumamoto Prefecture is famous for boat trips on the river, hot springs and the Aoi Aso shrine, one of Japan’s national treasures. Hitoyoshi is known as Kyushu’s “Little Kyoto” thanks to its peaceful and retro atmosphere.

Ruins of the castle

The Sagara dynasty ruled Hitoyoshi for 700 years. The castle was built according to modern techniques of the time. Today, only its ruins remain. King Sagara was ordered to govern this area by the king of the samurai chief, Minamoto. The castle was founded along the Kuma River. The building of the castle began in the 15th century.

Aoi Aso Shrine

The sanctuary was founded in 806. The structures we see today are over 400 years old. The sanctuary has an architecture unique to Hitoyoshi. The wooden sculptures that we see here are characteristic of the techniques used 400 years ago. Five structures were designated national treasures in 2008: the door, the main hall, the corridor, the offering room and the oratory. Aoi Aso was the first national treasure in Kumamoto Prefecture. They represent different human emotions: happiness, anger, sadness and pleasure. These sculptures are an original style that can only be seen here, known as the “Hitoyoshi” style. The dragon paintings that adorn the ceiling of the door are also remarkable.

Pilgrimage of the 33 statues of Kannon

These Kannon are peculiar because they do not belong to temples. They are inhabitants who, thanks to their boobies, have kept them since their creation around 1200.

Traditionally, Kannon represents mercy but the great variety of style of these 33 statues can evoke many other feelings to visitors. It says that looking at Kannon’s face can help heal. The 33 Kannons are open to pilgrims during the spring and autumn equinoxes, a custom that has existed for about 400 years. The complete pilgrimage makes a loop of the region of Hitoyoshi Kuma.

At each Kannon, the inhabitants welcome the pilgrims with tea and homemade snacks.

Making the pilgrimage of the 33 Kannon is a great idea to discover the region in an unusual way, while creating many opportunities to meet and exchange with local people.

Eikoku-ji Temple

The temple (known as the ghost temple) was founded in 1408 by the Buddhist monk named Jitei. who painted a ghost after he saw him rise from the temple pond. This roll painting is always kept in the temple. During the Satsuma rebellion (1877) the famous Saigo Takamori and his men used the temple as headquarters. The main hall of the temple was destroyed by fire during the war and rebuilt in 1891.

Kyusendo Cave

The Kyusendo Cave is the largest limestone cave in Kyushu and was discovered in March 1973. It is believed that it was created by a layer of limestone that rose from the bottom of the sea about 300 million years ago.

Kuma Shochu

The world-renowned tradition of Kuma Shochu has lasted for more than 500 years in connection with the cultivation of the Hitoyoshi rice region. There are 28 distilleries in Hitoyoshi Kuma, each with its own personality. Distilleries produce many varieties of Kuma Shochu, including blends using ingredients such as vegetables, milk and coffee. Shochu Masters work tirelessly to produce the best flavors and aromas. The World Trade Organization (WTO) granted geographical protection to Kuma Shochu in 1995. (Scotland whisky and champagne are also protected).

Kuma River

Hitoyoshi is famous for the Kuma River, one of the three fastest rivers in Japan, which it is recommended to discover along by taking a walk in a wooden boat.

Along the river, many aquatic activities are accessible.

Getting to Hitoyoshi

You can get to Hitoyoshi by train from Kumamoto station via the Hisatsu line.

Take the high-speed train to Kumamoto station. The journey between Kumamoto and the Hitoyoshi railway station lasts an hour with the JR Kagoshima-Hisatsu line.

The steam locomotive leaving Kumamoto station is the best way to get to Hitoyoshi. You will experience a truly unforgettable experience. There is only one round trip a day, so it is imperative to book your places well in advance

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