Yatsushiro: Kumamoto Second City, Known as a Major Producer of Rush Grass

Yatsushiro City in Kumamoto Prefecture is the prefecture second city, spreading across the fertile Yatsushiro plain. Its population is about 110,000. Known as a major rush grass producing area that accounts for most of the national share in the production of domestic rush grass, the raw material for tatami facing, the scenery of lush green rush grass fields is unique to Yatsushiro. Located at the mouth of the Kuma River, one of Japan three fastest rivers, it is also an industrial city where agriculture and industry have developed together. With the historic Yatsushiro Castle ruins and a spirited autumn festival, it is a city in which nature, industry, and history harmonize.

Japan Foremost Rush Grass Producer

Symbolic of Yatsushiro is the production of domestic rush grass. The area centered on Yatsushiro leads Japan in rush grass output, said to account for about 80 percent of the domestic share. Blessed with a mild climate and fertile soil, the Yatsushiro plain has long been an active center of rush grass cultivation. In early summer, lush green rush grass before harvest spreads across the fields, creating the idyllic rural scenery unique to Yatsushiro. In recent years, small goods and sundries made from rush grass are also produced, and the appeal of its fresh fragrance and natural material is being rediscovered. Yatsushiro is also known as a major producer of winter and spring tomatoes.

Yatsushiro Castle Ruins and the Myoken Festival

Yatsushiro has many sights that tell its history. The Yatsushiro Castle ruins, known as Matsue Castle and built in 1619, beautifully retain white stone walls and moats, serving as a citizens relaxation spot and a famous cherry blossom site. The festival that represents Yatsushiro is the Yatsushiro Myoken Festival, held every autumn. In the sacred procession, floats modeled on a legendary creature called the kida, popularly the game, and gorgeous kasaboko parade through the streets, a spirited and splendid sight. It is registered as one of the elements of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Yama, Hoko, Yatai float festivals, a festival representing Kyushu.

Access and Basic Information

The gateways to Yatsushiro are JR Kagoshima Main Line Yatsushiro Station and Shin Yatsushiro Station, where the Kyushu Shinkansen stops. Shin Yatsushiro Station opened with the partial opening of the Kyushu Shinkansen in 2004, and the full line opened in 2011. From the Kumamoto City area it is reached by rapid trains on the conventional line or by Shinkansen. A car is convenient for reaching sights around the city. The Yatsushiro Interchange on the Kyushu Expressway is also available.

Practical Travel Notes

The Yatsushiro Myoken Festival is held every November and draws many spectators, so planning accommodation and transport early is recommended. To enjoy the lush green scenery of the rush grass fields, early summer before harvest, around June and July, is the best time. The city also has hot spring facilities and natural scenery spreading at the mouth of the Kuma River, spots where you can spend a relaxed time. In winter you can enjoy local produce such as tomatoes.

One Piece of Advice

The seasons of beautiful rush grass fields in early summer and the Myoken Festival in autumn are especially recommended. Traffic may be restricted on festival days, so public transport is convenient. Using Yatsushiro as a base and extending toward Hitoyoshi along the Kuma River or toward Amakusa and Uki lets you fully enjoy the appeal of southern Kumamoto.

📚 Sources

This article was edited as general sightseeing information based on the tourism information issued by Yatsushiro City and the Yatsushiro City Tourism Association, public information on holding the Yatsushiro Myoken Festival, and public information on the Yatsushiro Castle ruins and local industry. The dates and traffic restrictions of the Yatsushiro Myoken Festival and the best season for the rush fields change from year to year. Before you set out, please confirm the latest dates and traffic situation through official sources such as Yatsushiro City.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About half a day combining a stroll at the Yatsushiro Castle ruins with the rush fields and the Kuma River mouth scenery, or a full day to see the Myoken Festival
• What to bring: For touring the rush fields in early summer, bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, and wear comfortable shoes for festival viewing
• Check the timing: The Yatsushiro Myoken Festival is held every November and draws many spectators, so plan lodging and transport early
• Suggested route: Stroll the Yatsushiro Castle ruins, also a cherry-blossom spot, then drive to the lush green rush fields in early summer and the natural scenery of the Kuma River mouth
• Travel on festival day: Traffic restrictions may apply on the day of the Myoken Festival, so public transport is convenient