Kumamon Square

Kumamon Square serves as the official headquarters and activity base for Kumamon, Japan's beloved black bear mascot who holds the unique title of Sales and Happiness Manager of Kumamoto Prefecture. Officially a public servant, Kumamon helps promote Kumamoto Prefecture's publicity, making this attraction both an entertainment venue and a cultural phenomenon representing modern Japanese mascot culture.

The facility opened as the base of operations for Kumamon and has become one of Kumamoto's most recognizable tourist destinations. Beyond its role as a mascot headquarters, Kumamon Square represents Japan's distinctive approach to regional promotion through character marketing, where local governments employ mascots to boost tourism and local pride.

This spot features a 360-degree stage where Kumamon performs daily, along with Instagram-worthy photo spots, AR games on large screens, and a variety of interactive experiences. Visitors can witness the real Kumamon come to work at his office promoting the prefecture, sometimes also singing and dancing during seasonal events. Kumamon can be found in his office on weekdays at 3pm, or on weekends and holidays on stage at 11:30am and 3:00pm, though visitors should check the official website for current performance schedules.

The attraction includes all kinds of Kumamon-related merchandise, snacks, and memorabilia, plus a snack corner where you can try Kumamon latte or a Kumamon softserve ice cream. Additional interactive elements include photo opportunities designed for social media sharing and augmented reality games that appeal to visitors of all ages.

Kumamon Square is located on the first floor of the Tetoria Kumamoto Building next to Tsuruya Department Store at Tetorihoncho 8-2, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City. Transportation is highly convenient via Kumamoto's tram system. From JR Kumamoto Station, it takes about 17 minutes to take the tram to Suidomachi Station; if you depart from Kumamoto Sakuramachi, it only takes 6 minutes by tram. The attraction is located right next to the Suidocho tram stop, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring Kumamoto's other attractions by public transport.