Kurume
· JP

Kurume

Kurume, Fukuoka, Japan

Discover Kurume: Where History Blooms Alongside Modern Delights Nestled in the heart of Fukuoka Prefecture, Kurume offers a captivating blend of historical charm, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. More than just a cit…

#Kurume#Fukuoka#Japan#Historic#Cultural
1/1
Stay & flyThings to doVideosPracticalGuide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kurume.

Top Hotels in Kurume

Top Flights to Kurume

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kurume.

Tours

Kurume Castle Ruins

Explore the historical ruins of Kurume Castle, a symbol of the city's rich heritage.

Ishibashi Cultural Center

A cultural complex offering art exhibitions, music performances, and beautiful gardens.

Visit Suitengu Shrine

A historic Shinto shrine known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.

Shopping

Shopping at Kurume Mitsui Outlet Park

A large shopping complex offering a wide variety of local and international brands.

Kurume Ramen Stroll

Explore Kurume's famous ramen shops and taste the local flavors.

Outdoor

Kurume Bird Center

A family-friendly park featuring various bird species and a small amusement area.

Central Park Kurume

A beautifully landscaped park, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Kurume Sports Park

Offers multiple sports facilities, including tennis courts and running tracks.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kurume.

Currency
¥ | JPY | Japanese Yen
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Kurume, Fukuoka, Japan is around '300,000'.
Languages
Japanese, Japanese
Average weather
Kurume
Jan
cold
10°2°
Feb
cold
11°3°
Mar
cloud
15°6°
Apr
clear
20°11°
May
clear
24°15°
Jun
rain
27°20°
Jul
hot
31°24°
Aug
hot
33°25°
Sep
rain
29°22°
Oct
clear
24°16°
Nov
cloud
18°10°
Dec
cold
13°5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kurume.

What people love

Kurume, located in Fukuoka, Japan, offers several appealing aspects for travelers:

  1. Traditional Culture: Kurume is known for its traditional Japanese culture, including its historic temples, shrines, and traditional crafts such as Kurume kasuri textiles. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Japan.

  2. Natural Beauty: The city is surrounded by lush greenery and natural landscapes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and enjoying scenic views. Kurume is also known for its cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.

  3. Hot Springs: Kurume is home to several onsens (hot springs) where visitors can relax and unwind in mineral-rich waters, known for their therapeutic properties.

  4. Local Cuisine: Food lovers can indulge in delicious local dishes, including Kurume ramen, a regional specialty known for its rich pork-based broth and savory toppings. Kurume also offers a variety of fresh seafood and other regional delicacies.

  5. Accessibility: Located in Fukuoka Prefecture, Kurume is easily accessible from major cities like Fukuoka and Hiroshima, making it a convenient destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Overall, Kurume offers a blend of traditional culture, natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and relaxation opportunities, making it a great destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

What to know

Traveling to Kurume, located in Fukuoka, Japan, may have some cons that travelers should be aware of. Here are some potential drawbacks:

  1. Limited English Proficiency: Kurume may not be as tourist-friendly as other major cities in Japan, so English may not be widely spoken. This could make communication challenging for travelers who do not speak Japanese.

  2. Limited Transportation Options: Kurume may not have as extensive public transportation options as larger cities like Tokyo or Osaka. This could make it more difficult to get around the city and explore the surrounding areas.

  3. Limited Tourist Attractions: While Kurume has its own charms and attractions, it may not offer as many tourist activities or sights compared to other popular destinations in Japan. Travelers looking for a bustling city with a wide range of tourist attractions may find Kurume to be relatively quiet.

  4. Limited International Cuisine: Kurume may not have as many international dining options compared to larger cities in Japan. Travelers who are used to a wide variety of international cuisine may find the dining options in Kurume to be more limited.

  5. Potential Language Barrier: As Kurume may not be as accustomed to receiving international tourists, travelers may encounter a language barrier when seeking assistance or information from locals.

Overall, while Kurume offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience in Japan, travelers should be prepared for potential challenges such as language barriers and limited tourist infrastructure.

Kurume is a city located in Fukuoka Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, Japan. It has a rich history and cultural background, with several significant events and landmarks contributing to its development over the centuries.

Early History:

  • Ancient Period: Kurume's area has been inhabited since ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting settlement during the Jomon and Yayoi periods. The region was part of the ancient Chikugo Province.

Edo Period:

  • Kurume Domain: During the Edo period, Kurume was an important castle town. The Kurume Domain, ruled by the Arima clan, was established in 1620. The Arima clan played a significant role in the administration and development of the area.
  • Kurume Castle: Built in the early 17th century, Kurume Castle was the center of the Kurume Domain. Although much of the castle was dismantled in the Meiji period, some remnants, like the stone walls and moats, can still be seen today.

Meiji Period and Modernization:

  • Meiji Restoration: With the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the feudal system was abolished, and Kurume began to modernize. The city became part of the newly established Fukuoka Prefecture.
  • Industrialization: Kurume developed as a center for industry, particularly rubber production. The Bridgestone Corporation, one of the world’s largest tire manufacturers, was founded by Shojiro Ishibashi in Kurume in 1931.

World War II:

  • Military Significance: During World War II, Kurume was of military importance due to its location and industrial capacity. The city experienced air raids which caused significant damage.

Post-War Period:

  • Reconstruction and Growth: After the war, Kurume underwent reconstruction and experienced economic growth. It developed into a key industrial and commercial hub in Kyushu.

Notable Figures:

  • Shojiro Ishibashi: Founder of Bridgestone Corporation. His contributions to the industrial development of Kurume are significant.
  • Seicho Matsumoto: A famous Japanese writer known for his mystery and historical novels, was born in Kitakyushu, but his early life was spent in Kurume.

Landmarks and Cultural Sites:

  • Suitengu Shrine: A prominent Shinto shrine in Kurume, known for its association with water and safe childbirth, attracting numerous visitors.
  • Kurume Kasuri: A traditional textile technique originating in Kurume, known for its indigo-dyed cotton fabrics with intricate patterns. It has been designated an Important Intangible Cultural Property.
  • Ishibashi Cultural Center: Established by Shojiro Ishibashi, this center includes museums and art galleries, contributing to the cultural life of the city.

Modern Kurume:

Today, Kurume is a vibrant city known for its cultural heritage, industrial base, and educational institutions. It continues to blend its historical roots with modern development, making it an important city in Fukuoka Prefecture.

This detailed history highlights Kurume's evolution from an ancient settlement to a modern city, underscoring its cultural significance and industrial contributions.