Yamaga: Chiyodoza Theater and Toyomae Kaido - A Retro Lantern Town Theater Walk

Experience a day of traditional Japanese culture and historic architecture in Yamaga, a town of hot springs and lanterns in northern Kumamoto Prefecture. Begin at the nationally designated Important Cultural Property theater, Chiyodoza, and step back in time through its wooden architecture, decorated ceiling, and underground stage mechanisms. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of gold lanterns at the Yamaga Lantern Folk Craft Museum, handmade with only washi paper and paste. Stroll the Toyomae Kaido with its white-walled merchant houses, enjoying local cuisine at townhouse cafés and sampling street-food sweets. Admire the grand curved-roof architecture of Sakura-yu, one of Kyushu's largest wooden hot spring buildings. Complete your journey at the historic Chiyono-en Sake Brewery, touring its museum and selecting local sake. A full day exploring Yamaga, where history whispers from every corner of this charming hot spring town.