A historic city on Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, Kumamoto is renowned for its imposing castle, rich regional food culture and friendly, welcoming inhabitants.

Around 2,000 workers have gathered from around Japan for three shifts at the site that keep operations running 24 hours a day. Locals said the work stopped only on New Year’s Day. Kumamoto’s ...

Kumamoto Prefecture, 230.5 mm in Takachiho, Miyazaki Prefecture, and 193 mm in Mashiki, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The seasonal rain front is expected to remain over the ...

Tatsuda Nature Park is located at 4-610 Kurokami, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto. It is open daily (except from December 29 to 31) from 8:30 a.m., with last entry at 4:30 p.m. Admission is 200 yen. Vicki L. Beyer, ...