I got a little taste of Kumamoto with my boyfriend.

Trip Moment for Nishiyunouraenchi Observatory shared by Contributor _TI***ws

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Real-time travel info for Nishiyunouraenchi Observatory on 2026.4.11

Today's weather: 10~21℃

Today's opening status: Opening soon | Open today at 10:00–17:00

My boyfriend and I came to Kumamoto for a 2-night, 3-day trip. Day 1: We arrived in Sakuramachi by overnight bus and checked into the Grids Premium Hotel Kumamoto. Then, for dinner, we went to an izakaya called "Chayama-tei" in Shinshigai. It was about a 10-15 minute walk from the hotel! They have a wide selection of shochu, so it's highly recommended for shochu lovers. Also, as you can see in the picture, you can compare different types of plum wine and choose which ones you want. It was great to be able to try three different kinds for such a reasonable price! Above all, I think the best thing about this izakaya is that all the food is delicious. Day 2: After I finished my errands, we went to a cafe and had dinner. The cafe was "flour + water Kumamoto." It was on the first floor of a Hoshino Resorts hotel, right at the entrance to Shimotori. My boyfriend had pasta, and I had pancakes. The pasta lunch set came with soup, daily bread, salad, and a drink, and everything was delicious! The pancakes were just the right amount for me, as I was quite hungry! They were fluffy, not too sweet, and I was able to finish them without getting tired of the taste! For dinner, we went to an izakaya called "Shoshin" in Uto City. It's best to go by car. It seems to be less than a 20-minute walk from the nearest JR Uto Station! This is a restaurant where reservations are essential, and it seems to be crowded every day, but it was a really delicious izakaya where you could feel the care put into everything from the food to the drinks and desserts. On our last day, we drove towards Aso, heading for the "Nishiyura Park Observatory." Driving on mountain roads can be a little challenging, but the road we took was well-maintained and had two lanes in each direction, so we were able to drive with a fair amount of confidence. Also, as we got closer to our destination, we could see beautiful scenery, making the journey enjoyable. Upon arrival, we went to "Restaurant Kitayama," located next to the observatory, to fill our stomachs. The prices seemed a little on the high side, but the beautiful view from the restaurant and the delicious food made it worthwhile. The staff were so kind and welcoming, it was a heartwarming experience, and my stomach was full. To proceed further into the observation deck, you need to pay a fee (I think it was 300 yen) at the restaurant. A beautiful view unfolded from the observation deck. I'm sure it would be beautiful in other seasons, and at sunset and sunrise as well. A record of my and my boyfriend's first trip. I highly recommend it to everyone.