Tourist attraction • Kumamoto Station, 3-chōme-15 Kasuga, Nishi Ward, Kumamoto, 860-0047, Japan
When you arrive at Kumamoto Station, the first thing you'll notice is the charming black bear character, Kumamon. Various Kumamon monuments are placed around the station, warmly welcoming visitors and showcasing the charm of Kumamoto.
Right after you get off the Shinkansen platform, you will be greeted by a giant Kumamon monument, an absolutely stunning sight. This monument stands about 1.8 meters tall and 3 meters wide, five times the size of the actual Kumamon. It was set up to commemorate the 5th anniversary of the entire Kyushu Shinkansen line opening. Its presence strongly signifies that you have arrived in Kumamoto, truly an emblem of the city.
At Kumamoto Station, you can encounter various Kumamon figures besides the giant monument. Kumamon appears in different places, such as benches near the local train gate and in front of Higo Yokamon Market. Notably, the 'head-only Kumamon' inside the Shinkansen gate has a unique appearance that some find adorable, while others find a bit scary.
Once, Kumamoto Station was named 'Kumamon Station' for a limited time, and Kumamon held the honorary title of station master. This fact highlights how significant Kumamon is to Kumamoto.
The Kumamon monuments at Kumamoto Station are not just tourist attractions; they embody the warmth, humor, and regional pride of Kumamoto. When visiting Kumamoto, enjoy meeting this unique and lovable character and savor Kumamoto's charm. Take the first step in creating unforgettable memories with Kumamon.