A Taste of Kumamoto with My Boyfriend

My boyfriend and I went on a 2-night, 3-day trip to Kumamoto. Day 1: We arrived at Sakuramachi by night bus and checked into the Grids Premium Hotel Kumamoto. For dinner, we headed to an izakaya called "Chasantei" in Shinshigai, about a 10-15 minute walk from the hotel. This place is highly recommended for shochu lovers due to its extensive selection. They also offer a plum wine tasting set, allowing you to choose your favorites, and it's reasonably priced for three varieties. The highlight of this izakaya is undoubtedly the delicious food. Day 2: After taking care of some personal errands, we visited a café and had dinner. The café, "flour + water Kumamoto," is located on the first floor of the Hoshino Resort Hotel near Shimo-tori. My boyfriend had pasta, while I enjoyed pancakes. The pasta lunch set included soup, daily bread, salad, and a drink, all of which were delightful. The pancakes were just the right portion for my appetite—fluffy, not overly sweet, and satisfying. For dinner, we went to an izakaya called "Ekokoro" in Uto City. It's best to travel by car, as it's about a 20-minute walk from the nearest JR Uto Station. This popular spot requires reservations and offers meticulously crafted dishes, drinks, and desserts that are truly delicious. Day 3: We drove towards Aso to visit the "Nishiyunoura Park Observatory." While mountain driving can be challenging, the roads we took were well-maintained and had two lanes, making it relatively safe. As we approached our destination, the scenery became increasingly beautiful, making the drive enjoyable. Upon arrival, we dined at "Restaurant Kitayama" near the observatory. Although the prices felt slightly high, the stunning views from the restaurant and the delicious food made it worthwhile. The staff were kind and welcoming, leaving us both satisfied and happy. To access the area beyond the observatory, there’s a fee (around 300 yen) payable at the restaurant. The observatory offers breathtaking views, which are likely even more stunning during different seasons or at sunrise and sunset. This was our first trip together, and I highly recommend it to everyone.