Our recent family trip to Kumamoto was more than a visit; it was a heartfelt reconnection with my roots and a chance to introduce my daughter to the wonders of my hometown. Nestled in the heart of Kyushu Japan, Kumamoto might be a small town, but its hidden gems offer a treasure trove of experiences.
Our time there was enriched by spending quality moments together, particularly in nature, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Rediscovering the Beauty of Kumamoto
Kumamoto is truly a place of natural beauty! I've captured some photos of its natural gems. The region's fertile soil and abundant water resources have helped create a vibrant ceramic industry with a rich and storied history…!
Precious Time with My Elderly Aunt
One of the most cherished aspects of my trip was spending time with my amazing elderly aunt. Her stories and wisdom have always inspired me to venture abroad, and reconnecting with her brought that inspiration to life once more.
Each moment shared with her was a precious gift, adding depth to my visit.
My Daughter's School Adventure
One of the most memorable moments of our trip was my daughter’s experience at the local elementary school I had attended decades ago.It was such a full-circle moment watching her learn my first language and dive into a culture that felt both familiar and fresh to her. She was pleasantly surprised by the daily classroom cleaning routine, something I grew up with, and it really helped her feel a sense of responsibility and community that I cherish.
In Japan, many schools have students clean their classrooms as part of their daily routine. This practice encourages teamwork, discipline, and respect for their environment. My daughter, Hawa, jumped into this task with great enthusiasm, bonding with her classmates over brooms and dustpans. It's a tradition that really builds character, and I loved seeing her enjoy and appreciate the experience.
Cooling Off in the Rivers
Despite the humid and hot weather, we found solace in Kumamoto’s local rivers. Jumping into the cool, refreshing waters became a family favorite, bringing both fun and relief from the heat. The rivers are not just beautiful; they really refresh the body and soul. Swimming with the locals, surrounded by the stunning scenery, was definitely a highlight of our summer.
The Resilience of Aso Shrine
Visiting the Aso Shrine was truly moving. This shrine, a key part of Kumamoto’s cultural heritage, has been rebuilt after it was damaged by an earthquake in 2016. While construction is still in progress, seeing it stand tall again filled us with hope and gratitude. The community’s determination to rebuild and the support from around the world after the disaster really show the resilience of Kumamoto people.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed and participated in the earthquake relief efforts during that time!
Savoring Local Delights
Kumamoto never fails to delight the senses, especially with its local produce. One unexpected treat was enjoying fresh, sweet tomatoes from local farmers, offered right on the street. These juicy tomatoes provided a refreshing snack, embodying the generosity and hospitality of the locals. On a hot day, this simple pleasure was a tasty highlight of our time there.
Fireworks and Family Bonding
Our evenings were often filled with the crackle and burst of fireworks, illuminating the sky as we bonded as a family. These moments were filled with laughter and joy, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of summer in Kumamoto. Each firework display was a celebration of the time we spent together, creating memories that we will treasure forever.
Looking Forward to Sharing More
Our trip to Kumamoto was more than just a vacation; it was a mix of experiences brought together by family, tradition, and the beauty of nature. I hope you all had a fantastic summer, filled with joyful moments and new discoveries. I can’t wait to share the stories and treasures from Kumamoto with you next time we meet at the pop-up events!
