Slowly over the lake with Pikachu's help

I survived my night in the box. I decide against another bus ride and instead opt for some traditional as well as some more modern parks. First, I visit Suizenji Jojuen, a park which displays traditional Japanese "garden features". It also houses a nice little Shinto shrine, which sadly has been affected by the earthquake as well. Later, I walk south towards Lake Kami Ezu. While Suizenji appears on every tourist map, Lake Ezo is the hang-out spot for locals. You'll see elderly couples walking along the green, spotting fish and birds. You will see children of all ages in the waters, catching fish and bugs. Lots of students also relax on the shores, or go for a swim. I spend a few hours relaxing here as well. I even rent a Pikachu themed peddle boat. Including a proper three point turn to reverse park the boat back on the pier.

After this, I go back to some more "cultural" spots, such as the former home of Natsume Soseki, as well as the local crafts center, which houses a great exhibition on "everyday" crafts which have all but disappeared in modern times. I even found some early Christmas presents.

To end my last day in Kumamoto, I try some horse meat. They even sell some as tartare, which means uncooked with a raw egg. Yummy.

Pictures Kumamoto