Kumamon

Kumamon is the local mascot character of Kumamoto Prefecture. The character is a bear, likely because “Kuma” in Kumamoto means “bear.” There are numerous local mascot characters in Japan, but Kumamon is the best known of all Yuru Kyara (local mascot characters, usually poorly designed). It is not registered as a trademark, so many products produced in Kumamoto use this character as a mascot for free. Wherever you go shopping in Kumamoto, you see many of Kumamon’s faces.

Kumamoto Streetcars

Kumamoto City is one of the 18 cities where streetcars are in operation.

Kiyomasa and a Tiger

Kiyomasa was the wartime samurai general who built Kumamoto Castle as the ruler there. He is one of the legendary samurai heroes with many episodes. One of them, a boys’ favorite story in old times, is his killing a ferocious tiger alone with his spear. Of course, this brave samurai is a top local hero in Kumamoto.

During the invasion of Korea, near Kiyomasa’s camp, a tiger appeared and killed horses and his men. He got angry and went hunting the tiger in the mountains. Finally, he faced the tiger, and before his men began to shoot their guns, Kiyomasa stepped forward, pierced his spear through the tiger’s neck, and killed it. He was well-known as a great spear master. He used to be one of the heroes for Japanese boys before the age of movies and TV. His doll was often given to boys as a gift.

Higomokkosu

This refers to the character of the men of Higo, today’s Kumamoto. That character is being very stubborn and conservative.

Tsuruya Department Store

It is the only department store in Kumamoto City. The amount of sales is the fourth greatest of all the local department stores.

Tap Water in Kumamoto City

All the tap water in Kumamoto City comes from underground sources. It is so clean that it needs no sterilization with chlorinates. Therefore, Kumamoto water is very tasty and rich in minerals.