About Kumamoto

Set on Kyushu Island, in Japan’s southwestern corner, Kumamoto is an intriguing coastal city with a long history. It’s a great first stop for discovering an island rich in hot springs, mountains and historic sites, and visitors can expect a lively city with stacks of cultural attractions. Accommodation options include chic boutique spots as well as impressive urban hotels, fit for business or leisure. Book your room at one of the best places to stay in Kumamoto to start planning your trip!

Kumamoto’s most famous landmark is undoubtedly its 17th-century castle, built by the daimyō — or lord — with innovative defense systems for its time. The fascinating Suizenji Jojuen Garden, recreating Hiroshige’s Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō in miniature, is another must-see. The city is also home to a beautiful peace pagoda on Mount Hanaoka, to the Kato Shrine and to the tomb of legendary warrior, writer, and philosopher Miyamoto Musashi. Art lovers will adore the City Museum of Contemporary Art.

Expect excellent galleries, boutiques, restaurants, cafés and bars throughout the city. Centrally located, the best places to stay in Kumamoto also have top-notch eateries of their own.

The Best Places to Stay in Kumamoto

For a Chic City Stay

  • Hotel Nikko Kumamoto is just moments from the acclaimed City Museum of Contemporary Art. Swish, contemporary rooms offer panoramic city views, big cosy beds and flat-screen TVs. Dine on French, Japanese or Cantonese fare after days of exploring. A cool, contemporary choice for business or leisure.
  • Kumamoto Hotel Castle has elegant interiors with a more classic feel. Pick this place for a romantic trip — the suites are generously appointed — or for a family holiday. Kumamoto Castle is minutes away on foot, and there are four excellent restaurants. A lovely city stay.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Kumamoto Airport and travel to your hotel by bus or taxi. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up.
  • You won't need a car within the city itself, but you may want to drive if you're exploring Kyushu independently. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn for the warmest weather, with temperatures of 23 - 29°C. Do be aware that landmarks — such as the Kumamoto Castle — and museums will be especially busy with visiting families during the school holidays.

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The best hotels in Kumamoto

The New Hotel

Kumamoto (Nishi-ku)

A lifestyle hotel in the Sakuranobaba Johsaien district. Rooms are simply furnished, some with chabudai dining tables. There's a buffet restaurant & sultry lobby bar, plus special space for private dining. Rates are reasonable and it's close to public transport, so a great choice for easy exploring.

  • Local exploring - The hotel is a minute's walk from Kumamoto train station so the ideal spot for those without a car who want to explore further
  • Value chic - A modern and stylish property in a convenient location and with an appealing price tag
  • Families - Kids will love the Kumamon Design Room with its fun cartoon theme
  • Restaurant - The buffet restaurant Fontana serves seasonal dishes using local produce
from £63 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Koko Hotel Premier

Kumamoto (Chuo-ku)

Situated above Sakura Machi Kumamoto with its numerous stores, this downtown hotel is a shopper's paradise The rooms provide an elegant respite with stylish decor in black and gold, some with fantastic views, while the communal areas have a sleek, arty vibe. A chic stay at a reasonable rate.

  • City Style - The Junior Suite is the epitome of style with its elegant gold and black decor, plush bathroom and floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Value chic - A reasonable price tag so there should be money left over to spend at all those shops!
  • Local exploring - Easy access to public transport, plus the many nearby cultural highlights
  • Sights nearby - Kumamoto Castle is within walking distance
from £70 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Nikko Kumamoto

Kumamoto

A centrally located hotel with epic city & mountain views, close to the Contemporary Art Museum. Enjoy gourmet cuisine in French, Japanese and Cantonese restaurants before retreating to elegant rooms with crisp white sheets, flat-screen TVs & seating areas. Great for business or leisure travellers.

  • City Style - A chic choice for a city break or business trip, with contemporary interiors and impressive city views
  • Local exploring - A chic, centrally located, property close to Kumamoto Castle and the Contemporary Art Museum
  • Great walks - Enjoy relaxing strolls through the beautifully landscaped and historic Suizenji Park
  • Museums - The Contemporary Art Museum's fascinating exhibits are just a minute's walk away
from £98 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
FAV Hotel Kumamoto

Kumamoto (Chuo-ku Kajiyamachi)

A comfortable hotel in downtown Kumamoto. Light and airy, minimalist rooms feature kitchens and laundry areas, ideal for anyone on a budget wanting to keep costs down. There's a cool cafe bar with a terrace, plus plenty of eateries and entertainment on the doorstep. A home from home in the city.

  • Local exploring - A central spot with easy access to many of the area's cultural attractions
  • Families - The spacious family rooms have fun bunk beds, and sleep up to 6 guests
  • Sights nearby - Kumamoto Castle is within walking distance
  • Restaurant - There's a Cafe Bar open 7am to 10pm
from £87 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Kumamoto Hotel Castle

Kumamoto

An elegant hotel situated in the heart of Kumamoto. Stylish rooms are contemporary in style with floor-to-ceiling windows, crisp white linen and luxury bathrooms. The best boast views of Kumamoto Castle. A range of regional and international dishes are served up in the restaurants. A chic city base.

  • Romantic Break - A romantic city hotel with classic interiors, large suites and four swish restaurants for intimate evenings as a couple
  • Cycling - Hire bicycles to follow myriad trails through the city and surrounding countryside on two wheels
  • Local exploring - Boasting excellent transport links and striking views of nearby Kumamoto Castle
  • Sights nearby - A 7-minute walk from the iconic Kumamoto Castle, a city highlight
from £119 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Matsuya Honkan

Kumamoto (Chuo Ward)

Set next to Suizenji Park, this ryokan is just outside downtown Kumamoto. Warmly-decorated Japanese-Western style rooms feature tatami corners, plus there are two private baths. Delicious seasonal fare is served in the restaurant and there's a stylish bar. A calming escape away from the city buzz.

  • Local exploring - Suizenji train station is a 15-minute walk away so it's ideal for exploring further afield
  • Total relaxation - With just 12 rooms, this ryokan offers a calming stay in elegant surroundings
  • Great walks - Enjoy a stroll through Suizenji Park, a traditional Japanese-style garden complete with Shinto shrine and thatched-roof teahouse
  • Restaurant - The restaurant serves local specialities as well as Western-style favourites
from £103 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Blossom Kumamoto

Kumamoto (Kumamoto)

A hotel in downtown Kumamoto where views are paramount. Chic rooms have large windows framing the cityscape; choose a corner one for panoramic vistas. The restaurant serves seasonal cuisine with Mt Aso in the distance, while the bathing area and sauna look out to a lush garden. Picture perfect!

  • Romantic Break - Enjoy a luxurious stay in the Premium King Room with its spacious glass-walled bathroom with deep tub and a panoramic city view
  • Short break - The hotel is directly connected to Kumamoto train station so it's perfect for a short sightseeing trip
  • Views - Amazing views almost everywhere you look, plus an observation deck for panoramic vistas
  • Restaurant - Seasonal cuisine is served in the restaurant which has wonderful city views
from £117 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia