Introducing Kukichimaru

Hello, travelers! I’m Gachako, a writer for [Sarukuma].
Today I’m excited to introduce you to Oohama, Tamana City and its hidden gem, [Kukichimaru].

The Oohama district, located on the seaside of Tamana City, is dotted with beautifully preserved historic buildings — perfect for travelers who love atmospheric Japanese architecture.

Kukichimaru is one of these wonderful old buildings.

An antique wooden signboard welcomes you, hinting at a beautiful connection between past and present.

There’s a spacious parking area right in front of the building — convenient if you’re driving around Kumamoto.

Step inside and you’ll find a row of handmade craft displays from local artisans.
It’s like a permanent marketplace!

The interior is wonderfully spacious with magnificent exposed wooden beams overhead.
You’ll find everything from accessories to woodwork and leather goods — a treasure trove for souvenir hunters.

Here you’ll see dreamy firefly-glass jewelry from accessory artist “Leaf”.

And here are heartwarming pieces from woodworking artist “Jiichan Kobo” (Grandpa’s Workshop) — you can feel the deep love for his grandchildren in every creation.

Cherry tomatoes for just 100 yen a basket?! And there’s even a deep-ish bowl provided!
Tomatoes grown by the sea have a wonderful natural sweetness.
Keep an eye on this market space — it’s always evolving.

Take off your shoes and step up onto the tatami area, where the dining space awaits.

There are about five tatami-style table seats, plus a counter and around five more chair-and-table setups.
High chairs and baby bouncers are also available — perfect for families traveling with little ones.

There’s even a baby diaper-changing station right by the restroom.
A real bonus for parents traveling with infants!

Now, let’s check out the menu!

The menu features Asian dishes such as banh mi, pad thai, and pho.
This Asian flair likely comes from the owner’s previous life running a diving shop down south.
It’s a self-service system — order at the counter, take your seat, and your meal will be brought out to you.

Recommended Menu Items at Kukichimaru

I tried the Pho Kukichimaru-Style for 850 yen.
You can choose between hot or cold — I went with the hot version this time.

Noodle upgrades to large size are free, so of course I went big (foodie problems!).
If cilantro isn’t your thing, just let them know and they’ll happily accommodate.

The rice noodles are light and slurp-worthy — never heavy.
Kids who love slurpy noodles will be in heaven.

The spice felt mild at first, but partway through I was sweating buckets!
Strange — it really wasn’t that spicy…

The light, perfectly seasoned dashi-based broth was absolutely delicious.
Sweating away, I finished every drop! I felt my whole body warming up beautifully.
For the hot summer months ahead, the cold pho version is sure to be a hit.

I spotted a high school customer enjoying the Tamana strawberry shaved ice (kakigori)
It looked even bigger and more delicious in person than in the photo!

There are baked goodies like scones, too.

Plus drinks, pies, pudding, and even traditional Japanese zenzai (sweet red bean soup).
The dessert lineup is impressive!

I’m definitely coming back for sweets next time.

Be sure to stop by Kukichimaru on your next adventure through Kumamoto!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current as of the time of the visit. Prices and opening hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.