Welcome to episode three of Project 47, my YouTube series chronicling my mission to ride through all 47 prefectures of Japan on my motorcycle! This time, I’m diving into Kumamoto Prefecture, a land of towering volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, and cherry blossom-lined roads. This is part one of a five-part adventure, and it’s packed with thrilling rides and unexpected discoveries. Join me on this epic journey, and watch the full episode embedded below to feel the rush of the open road!
Kicking Off in Kumamoto’s Wild Heart
The journey begins just over the Miyazaki border, where I camped overnight to beat the morning chill—my bike was frosted over, but the April sun quickly warmed things up. From there, I crossed into Kumamoto, aiming for Mount Aso, Japan’s largest active volcano. My route starts with a descent from a mountain pass, swings through charming towns, and heads north to the massive Aso caldera. With five to six days to explore, Kumamoto promises a mix of natural wonders and cultural surprises.
Chasing Cherry Blossoms and Mountain Passes
Kumamoto greeted me with a stunning park bursting with cherry blossoms, their delicate petals framing a serene river and suspension bridge. Just 20 minutes into the trip, this spot was a perfect introduction to the prefecture’s beauty. Route 445 delivered a rider’s paradise—switchbacks, sweeping corners, and technical mountain roads that left me exhausted but exhilarated. Dense bamboo forests gave way to sakura-lined paths, and waving to fellow riders added a sense of camaraderie to the journey.
A much-anticipated road famed for its thousands of cherry blossoms was a bit early in bloom, but the scenic ride was still a treat. The distant view of Mount Aso’s caldera kept me stoked for what lay ahead.
Hidden Gems and Local Tips
A friend’s tip led me to a breathtaking spring with a towering waterfall, a hidden gem I’d never have found otherwise. The crystal-clear water and serene setting were a perfect pitstop. Another quirky find was a giant motorcycle sculpture—looking a bit weathered but undeniably cool. These unexpected discoveries are what make road trips so special, and Kumamoto delivered them in spades.
A Rider’s Dream Roads
Kumamoto’s roads are a motorcyclist’s dream. The mountain pass on Route 445 was a thrilling mix of technical twists and sweeping curves, demanding focus but rewarding with pure joy. Cruising through small towns and past blooming sakura trees, I felt the springtime energy in the air. Even with other drivers on the cherry blossom road, the ride was a blast, and the promise of Aso’s volcanic vistas kept me pushing forward.
Camping and New Connections
After a long day of riding, I set up camp at a welcoming site near Mount Aso. The owner, Araki-san, gifted me a unique musical instrument (which I hilariously failed to play), and I bonded with my campsite neighbor, Hirata-san, over beers and stories. These moments of connection are the heart of Project 47. As the sun set, I captured drone footage of Aso’s glowing caldera—a perfect end to an epic day.
Why You Should Watch Project 47
This first installment of Kumamoto’s five-part series is a love letter to adventure, from heart-pounding mountain rides to tranquil cherry blossom walks. Whether you’re a rider, a nature lover, or just curious about Japan’s hidden treasures, this episode has it all. From a giant motorcycle statue to a locals-only spring, Kumamoto’s surprises will keep you hooked.
Watch the Full Episode Now!
Ready to hit the road? Check out the full episode below to see Kumamoto’s volcanic landscapes and vibrant springtime beauty in action. Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to follow the rest of my Kumamoto journey and beyond!
Join the Adventure
Day one in Kumamoto was just the start—this prefecture has islands, waterfalls, and more to explore in the next four parts. Drop a comment with your favorite moment from this episode or tell me what you’re excited to see in Kumamoto! Next up, we dive deeper into Aso’s caldera and beyond.
Happy riding, and I’ll see you on the road!
Photos from the Journey
Follow Project 47 on YouTube for more motorcycle adventures, and share this post to spread the word! Let’s conquer Japan’s 47 prefectures together.