About Kumamon Port Yatsushiro

Hi everyone, this is Maru, your Sarukuma writer!

Today we’re heading to Shinminato, Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, to visit
“Kumamon Port”.

There are a whopping 84 Kumamon waiting for you here! (●′(エ)′●)

Kumamon Port Yatsushiro is one of the world’s largest cruise ship reception hubs, which had its pre-opening last October.

It’s brand new, and…

The adjoining hospitality area, “Kumamon Park,” is open! ＼(^o^)／

However, as of May 2021:

Open: Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays only.
Hours: 9:00–17:00 (free admission)
Entry is currently restricted to Kumamoto Prefecture residents only!!

※ Entry conditions may change depending on the situation, so please check the official website for the latest details.

An incredibly spacious parking lot. Friendly staff are on hand to guide you in.

There are two restrooms near the entrance.

The restroom walls feature trick art!!!
Be sure to grab a fun photo (^^). Diaper-changing tables are available too.

Plenty of vending machines, too.

Here’s the tenant area, which had its pre-opening on the very day we visited.

You’ll find a local Yatsushiro karaage (Japanese fried chicken) shop, a hot dog stand,
and stores selling souvenirs and Kumamon goods.

There’s also a covered seating area, perfect for taking a relaxing break.

Inside part of the passenger terminal, you can also enjoy a Kumamon photo exhibition.

It’s a photo exhibit titled “The Real Kumamon Came to Visit!” Can you guess which one is the real Kumamon?

After checking in at reception (temperature check, name registration, and ID confirmation for the group representative),
it’s time to go meet Kumamon! 😊😊

Highlights of Kumamon Port Yatsushiro

Welcome!

A line of life-sized Kumamon greet you at the entrance 😍 Look at that glossy, shiny black coat!

A Kumamon Shrine?! Pray for good luck (^O^)

Since the venue is designed to welcome international cruise passengers, there’s a strong traditional Japanese theme throughout — perfect for visitors who love Japanese aesthetics.

What are you looking at? Some of them are pulling silly poses lol

A Japanese-style garden area. As we strolled around the pond…

Wait — is that Kumamon enjoying an outdoor onsen?! ♨️

Don’t get too dizzy, Kumamon…

The main attraction is the Giant Kumamon!!!

This towering statue stands a whopping 6 meters tall!!!

A little girl was even playing a game of “oshikura manju” (a traditional pushing game) with him 👧 Think she can win?

Even the back view is adorable 💕 That little tail is just too cute 😍

There’s a crowd gathering further back…

The reason? It’s the Kumamon Choir! 🎶

A staggering 54 Kumamon arranged in a semicircle, all singing together!

Look closely and you’ll see each Kumamon has a different facial expression… Why not join in and sing along 🎶

You’ll also find the 12 Kumamon of the Chinese zodiac, each sporting a sash for their zodiac animal, gathered in a circle!

From the back of the plaza, you can take in beautiful ocean views 🌊 though there’s a fence to keep visitors safe from the water’s edge.

There’s also a large open lawn, perfect for a picnic with bento boxes — or just for letting the kids run around 👦👧

So many photo spots! Try to find all 84 Kumamon while you’re here ＼(^o^)／

Follow us on Instagram for daily updates!
Sarukuma shares info on family-friendly lunches, parks, and indoor playspots in Kumamoto.
We’d love your follow! (*´∀｀*)

Kumamon Port Yatsushiro Information

Frequently Asked Questions

※ Information is based on the time of our visit. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before your visit.