The moment you step off the plane at Kumamoto Airport, you'll feel the comfort of the natural air and your heart will be filled with excitement for the journey ahead. Even children who are a little quiet after waking up will surely be full of excitement from now on.

When spending winter trips to Kumamoto with family, staying at a hotel is one of the most precious memories.
Especially if you have small children with you, a special space that will make them smile the moment they enter the room will make your memories even more special.

SOTETSU GRAND FRESA KUMAMOTO in the center of Kumamoto City is offering a limited-time "Sonyan x Kumamon" collaboration room. As soon as children spot the stuffed animals, they rush over with smiles on their faces and hug them. Spending time surrounded by cute characters is pure happiness for both parents and children. The hotel is clean and comfortable, and there are plenty of services that families will appreciate, such as renting out children's pajamas.

After enjoying the collaboration room, we recommend touring Kumamoto Castle and other spots that are perfect for the whole family.
If you travel to Aso or Kurokawa Onsen, a warm and relaxing journey awaits.

The only place you can spend time with Sonyan and Kumamon is at SOTETSU GRAND FRESA KUMAMOTO!

SOTETSU GRAND FRESA KUMAMOTO is a 6-minute walk from Kumamoto Sakuramachi Bus Terminal, making it an ideal base for sightseeing in Kumamoto city.
This collaboration room features Sonyan, who is making his first appearance in Kyushu, and the popular local character Kumamon. Come and enjoy a special experience that you won't find anywhere else in the country!

[Collaboration Room Details]
Guest Rooms type: Standard Twin(21.8 ㎡- 22.8 ㎡) - only 2 rooms *Up to 2 preschool children can sleep in the same bed *Children's pajamas are also available (please inquire in advance if required)

Limited time only! "Sonyan x Kumamon Collaboration Room" Reservations here ▼

■ Kumamoto Castle
A leisurely walk from the hotel will soon bring the majestic Kumamoto Castle into view.
The castle tower, shining brightly against the clear winter sky, is imposing and beautiful, making it the perfect place to take commemorative family photos. You'll find it heartwarming to watch your children playing, chasing the shadows of the trees. Capture these small moments in photos to create memories of your trip.

At night, the area is lit up, creating a fantastical atmosphere that is different from the daytime. You can also take lots of photos that you'll want to upload to social media.

Address: 1-1 Honmaru, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City
Location: Approximately 20 minutes on foot from the hotel
 

Sakuranobaba Josaien
Josaien, located at the foot of Kumamoto Castle, is a lively spot where history and gourmet food come together.
The whole family can have fun all day, sampling local specialties from around the prefecture and buying limited edition Kumamon goods as souvenirs. The sight of children munching on Kumamon-yaki with gusto will surely bring smiles to the faces of the Adults around them.

There is also a free kids' space, a nursing room, and a restroom with a baby bed, so it's a great place to bring children with you. There are also plenty of seasonal experiences, such as various events and foot baths.

Address: 1-1 Ninomaru, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City
Location: About 15 minutes on foot from the hotel
 

■ Sakuramachi Kumamoto
Directly connected to Sakuramachi Bus Terminal, this large commercial facility allows you to enjoy yourself regardless of the weather.
There are also plenty of stylish cafes and restaurants, as well as shops selling Kumamoto souvenirs. The building also has a family cafe, food court, stroller rentals, and a nursing room, making it a comfortable place to stay even during your trip.

The rooftop garden, "Rooftop Park," offers an open space where children can play energetically even in winter, and the glittering illuminations on winter nights make for a truly photogenic experience.

Address: 3-10 Sakuramachi, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto City
Location: Approximately 6 minutes walk from the hotel
 

Mount Aso
Mount Aso, which boasts one of the largest calderas in the world, is the highlight of any trip to Kumamoto.
Aso is especially majestic in winter, with its snowy landscape, providing a memorable view for the whole family.
There are plenty of spots to enjoy for both children and Adults, such as nature walks at Kusasenrigahama, the ropeway, and a drive on Milk Road.

The sight of smoke rising from the crater of Mt. Nakadake up close is truly impressive! It's an experience that will have you saying to your family, "Nature is amazing!"
(*) For details about visiting Nakadake, please check the official Mount Aso Tourism website.

Address: Akasui, Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture Location: JR Kumamoto Station → JR Aso Station (Toyohi Main Line) → Aso Sanjo Terminal (Shuttle bus)
 

■ Kurokawa Onsen
Continuing on from Aso, we head to Kurokawa Onsenkyo, a quiet hot spring resort nestled in the mountains.
With its rows of thatched roofs and wooden hot spring inns, it feels as if you've traveled back in time.

The popular open-air bath "Yumeguri" is an exciting adventure for children! You can also have fun choosing your favorite hot spring with your "bath ticket" and finding your favorite.

You can create winter-only memories by experiencing making hot spring eggs and enjoying an open-air bath with a snowy view.
Some facilities have special facilities for children, so it is recommended to check in advance.

Address: Manganji, Minamioguni-machi, Aso-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture Location: Approx. 150 minutes from Kumamoto Sakuramachi Bus Terminal on the Yamabiko Express bound for Kurokawa Onsen

[Location from Mount Aso to Kurokawa Onsen]
(Car/Rental Car) Approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour by car (Distance: Approximately 25-30km)
(Local bus) From Aso Station, take the bus bound for Ogunimachi (some buses) → change at Minamiogunimachi bus stop for the bus bound for Kurokawa Onsen *Please check the timetable in advance as there are few local buses.
 

The appeal of winter in Kumamoto is that you can enjoy both a comfortable trip that's not too cold and a trip where you can enjoy the snowy scenery and hot springs.
To enjoy a comfortable winter trip to Kumamoto, you need to be aware of the temperature difference between the city and the mountain areas.

Kumamoto city
Kumamoto city is relatively warm even in winter, and there is almost no snow, making it an easy area to visit.
However, it gets chilly in the mornings and evenings, so it's a good idea to bring something you can take off and put on, such as a scarf or a thin down jacket.

Mountainous area (Aso and Kurokawa Onsen)
In mountainous areas such as Aso and Kurokawa Onsen, temperatures are 5 to 10°C lower than in the city, and there is also snow and ice, so it is essential to take measures to protect yourself from the cold, such as bringing a down coat, hat, and gloves.

If you are traveling with children
To prepare for sudden temperature changes and being outdoors in winter, it is a good idea to bring the following items with you.
・Hat ・Gloves ・Heat pack ・Scarf or blanket ・Hydration bottle

Dry road surface measures
The air in Kumamoto tends to be dry in the winter, so it's useful to have lip Creamer, a mask, and a humidifier. If you're heading to snowy areas like Aso, be sure to wear shoes with non-slip surfaces or that you're comfortable wearing.

Temperatures and road conditions change from day to day. Before setting off, please check the latest information on the official website of the Kumamoto Regional Meteorological Observatory or the website of your destination's tourist association.

How was it?
If you base your winter trip to Kumamoto at SOTETSU GRAND FRESA KUMAMOTO, you can have a special stay in a character room, walk around the city, enjoy the spectacular views and hot springs, and enjoy a family trip that you can enjoy to the fullest.

A winter trip spent with the whole family will surely become a treasured memory.
Why not try experiencing a special moment in Kumamoto this winter, forgetting your busy everyday life and treating yourself to a special treat?

We recommend that you make your reservation and check the information early, referring to the official website and reviews!

*Information as of December 2025.