Yabe Travel Guide

Discover the beauty and culture of Yabe with this comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to local cuisine, we've got everything covered for your next adventure in Japan.


Your Ultimate Guide to Yabe, Japan

Yabe is a small town located in Kumamoto Prefecture in Kyushu, Japan. Though tiny in size, Yabe has a lot to offer for visitors who want to experience the best of Japanese culture and natural beauty. From museums to outdoor adventures, Yabe has something for everyone. This comprehensive tour guide to Yabe will help you make the most of your trip.

Introduction to Yabe

Yabe is situated in the central portion of the Kumamoto Prefecture, and it used to be a bustling coal mining town. Now, Yabe is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to hike, bike or explore the countryside. Many visitors also come to Yabe to learn more about Japanese history and culture by visiting some of the town’s museums and historical sites.

List of Places to Visit in Yabe

Below is a list of the best places to visit in Yabe. These destinations are arranged into two categories: culturally important attractions and natural attractions of Yabe.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Higo Kaido Footpath: The Higo Kaido Footpath is a historical path that connected Kumamoto Castle with the rest of the island. The path has been preserved to its original state, making it a popular spot for visitors to take a stroll and explore Japanese history.
  • Yabe Coal Museum: Yabe was a coal mining town, and the Yabe Coal Museum is dedicated to preserving the town’s mining history. Visitors can learn about the tools and techniques used to mine coal and explore the old mining tunnels.
  • Yabe Castle Ruins: The Yabe Castle was built in the 16th century and served as the base for the local samurai lords. The castle was destroyed during the Meiji Restoration, and today, visitors can explore the castle ruins and learn about its history.

Natural Attractions of Yabe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Aso: Mount Aso is one of Japan’s largest active volcanoes and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can hike around the base of the volcano and explore the nearby hot springs.
  • Hikawa Gorge: The Hikawa Gorge is a natural wonder that offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, rock formations, and mountain streams. Visitors can hike through the gorge and enjoy the scenery.
  • Kumamoto Prefecture Natural Park: The Kumamoto Prefecture Natural Park is a vast wilderness area that offers hiking trails, camping sites and spectacular views of the mountain ranges.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yabe

Hiking and biking are popular activities in Yabe. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Yabe – Kawagoe Loop: This 12 km hiking trail takes visitors through a scenic route that connects the towns of Yabe and Kawagoe. The trail passes through peaceful countryside areas and offers stunning views of Mount Aso.
  • Yabe Coal Mine Road: The Yabe Coal Mine Road is a popular biking trail that follows the old railway line that was used to transport coal from the mines. The trail is 16 km long and is relatively flat, making it perfect for bikers of all levels.
  • Hikawa Gorge Loop: This 7 km hiking trail takes visitors through the Hikawa Gorge and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Yabe. The trail is relatively easy and offers stunning views of the gorge and the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Yabe: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting museums and hiking, there are plenty of other things to do in Yabe.

  • Try local food: Yabe is famous for its specialty, Yabe Potato. This type of sweet potato is only grown in Yabe and is famous for its unique taste. Visitors can try Yabe Potato in many dishes, including chips, bread, and sweets.
  • Take a hot spring bath: Yabe is home to many hot springs, and visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak after a long day of hiking or exploring.
  • Try the local sake: The Kumamoto Prefecture is known for its high-quality sake, and visitors to Yabe can sample some of the best at the local sake breweries.
  • Take a tour of Yabe: Visitors who want to learn more about Yabe’s history and culture can take a guided tour of the town with a local guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yabe

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Yabe:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Yabe Coal Museum, take a walk along the Higo Kaido Footpath
2 Hike the Yabe – Kawagoe Loop
3 Visit Mount Aso and enjoy the hot springs
4 Explore the Hikawa Gorge and surrounding areas
5 Take a guided tour of Yabe and learn more about the town’s history and culture
6 Try local food and sake
7 Relax in the hot springs and enjoy the countryside view

Food and Drink Scene of Yabe

Yabe is a small town but is famous for its food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Yabe.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Yabe Potato: Yabe Sweet Potato is a must-try dish in Yabe. Visitors can try it in many forms, including chips, bread, and sweets.
  • Tonkatsu: Tonkatsu is a fried pork dish that is popular in Yabe. The dish is often served with rice and miso soup.
  • Local Fresh Fish: Yabe is close to the ocean, and visitors can enjoy fresh local fish in many restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: The Kumamoto Prefecture is known for its high-quality sake, and visitors to Yabe can sample some of the best at the local sake breweries.
  • Shochu: Shochu is a traditional Japanese distilled beverage that is popular in Yabe.

Where to Stay in Yabe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Yabe has limited accommodation options, but visitors can find everything they need for a comfortable stay.

  • Yabe Onsen Ryokan: A traditional Japanese guesthouse that offers hot springs, good food, and comfortable accommodation.
  • Yabe Business Hotel: A budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Yabe Youth Hostel: A great choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to meet other travelers and make new friends.

What to Buy in Yabe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Yabe can take home some unique souvenirs and local products.

  • Yabe Potato Products: As mentioned earlier, Yabe Sweet Potato is a must-try dish in Yabe, and visitors can take home some unique Yabe Potato products as souvenirs.
  • Kumamoto Prefecture Sake: The Kumamoto Prefecture is known for its high-quality sake, and visitors can take home some of the best from the local breweries.
  • Local Crafts and Artwork: Yabe is home to many local craftsmen who produce unique handmade crafts and artwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Yabe

Yabe is a small town that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and traditions. Visitors should be aware of some local customs, such as taking off shoes before entering someone’s home or not tipping in restaurants.

Best Time to Visit Yabe

The best time to visit Yabe is from April to November when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yabe

Here are some do’s and don’ts for visitors to Yabe:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local food and drink.
  • Take your shoes off before entering someone’s home.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Litter or damage the natural scenery.
  • Use mobile phones in quiet areas such as shrines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Yabe

Yabe is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should still take reasonable precautions, such as keeping an eye on valuables and not leave their hotel rooms unlocked.

Health in Yabe

Yabe is located in a relatively remote area, and medical facilities are limited. Visitors should make sure they have adequate health insurance that covers them for any unexpected incidents during their trip.

Getting to Yabe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Yabe can travel by various methods of transportation:

Airports Near Yabe

  • Kumamoto Airport: Kumamoto Airport is the nearest airport to Yabe, located around 68 km away.

Bus Stations Near Yabe

  • Yabe Bus Stop: Visitors can take a bus from Kumamoto to Yabe Bus Stop, located in the center of the town.

Other Options

  • Rent a Car: Visitors also have the option of renting a car from Kumamoto and driving to Yabe. The journey takes around 90 minutes.

How to Get Around in Yabe

The best way to get around Yabe is by car or bike. Visitors can rent a car or bike from the local rental shops.

Where to Go Next from Yabe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kumamoto City: Kumamoto City is the capital of Kumamoto Prefecture and is famous for its historical castle and samurai history.
  • Mount Aso: Visitors can explore the highest volcano in Japan, located just a short drive from Yabe.
  • Kurokawa Onsen: This hot spring town is famous for its historic ambiance and unique hot spring baths.

Conclusion

Yabe is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique experience of Japanese culture and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or local cuisine, Yabe has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide has provided a list of the best places to visit, local customs, and wonderful souvenirs to bring home, making your trip to Yabe unforgettable.

Tsūjunkyō Tsūjunkyō