What is the name of the stone wall structure installed at Kumamoto Castle to prevent enemy incursions? How many steps are there in the tallest stone staircase in Japan? What was the first of its kind in Japan introduced in 1968? This is a local quiz about Kumamoto Prefecture that might make you exclaim, “Huh, really?” when you hear the answers.
We’ve carefully selected questions that can be enjoyed not only by those who live in Kumamoto or have traveled there, but also by those with no connection to the prefecture.
By taking on this local quiz, you can learn about the region’s history and culture and deepen your knowledge.
It might even pique your interest and make you want to visit! Please, everyone, give this intellectually stimulating local quiz a try.
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[For Seniors] Kumamoto Prefecture Local Quiz. Enjoy Brain Training with Popular Tourist Spots, Kumamoto Castle, and Local Cuisine (1–10)
What was the first thing introduced in Japan in 1968 in Kumamoto Prefecture?NEW!
- tram
- arcade shopping street
- scramble crossing
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scramble crossing
In 1968, Japan’s first scramble crossing was introduced at the Koga Honmachi intersection in central Kumamoto City. At the time, automobile traffic in Kumamoto was rapidly increasing, and this initiative drew attention as a groundbreaking measure to ease congestion while protecting pedestrian safety. Today, scramble crossings are common in cities nationwide—most famously in Shibuya, Tokyo—but some may be surprised to learn that their birthplace is in Kumamoto Prefecture.
What is the name of the stone wall structure of Kumamoto Castle that is gentle at the bottom and becomes steeper as it goes up?NEW!
- Musha-gaeshi
- Ninja Drop
- Samurai Bowling
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Musha-gaeshi
The stone walls of Kumamoto Castle have a relatively gentle slope near the bottom, but they trace a distinctive curve that sweeps sharply outward as they rise. This beautiful structure is called “Mushagaeshi,” named for the fact that even enemy samurai and agile ninja would be unable to climb it and would have to turn back partway.
What is the name of the active volcano in Kumamoto Prefecture that has one of the largest calderas in the world?NEW!
- Mount Aso
- Sakurajima
- Mount Unzen
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Mount Aso
Mount Aso is an active volcano located in Kumamoto Prefecture, renowned for having one of the world’s largest calderas, stretching about 18 km east–west and about 25 km north–south. With its vast natural landscapes and hot springs, it has long been cherished as one of Kumamoto’s signature tourist destinations.
Who built Kumamoto Castle, one of the three famous castles of Japan?NEW!
- Toyotomi Hideyoshi
- Kuroda Kanbei
- Kato Kiyomasa
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Kato Kiyomasa
Kato Kiyomasa was a military commander who was active from the Azuchi–Momoyama period into the early Edo period. As a close retainer personally raised by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, he distinguished himself in numerous military exploits. Kumamoto Castle, completed in 1607 (Keicho 12), is known for its solid construction and beautiful stone walls, and is counted among Japan’s three most famous castles.
What is the river in Kumamoto Prefecture that is one of Japan’s three fastest-flowing rivers?NEW!
- Shirakawa
- Kumagawa
- Kikuchi River
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Kumagawa
The Kuma River is a first-class river that flows through the southern part of Kumamoto Prefecture, and it is counted as one of Japan’s three great rapid rivers alongside the Mogami River in Yamagata Prefecture and the Fuji River, which flows through Shizuoka and Yamanashi Prefectures. Blessed with abundant water and beautiful nature, it has long been beloved by many people for activities such as river rafting and ayu (sweetfish) fishing.
How many steps does Japan’s tallest stone staircase in Kumamoto Prefecture have?NEW!
- 1111 levels
- 2222 steps
- 3,333 steps
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3,333 steps
The stone steps of the Shakain Misaka Promenade in Misato Town, Kumamoto Prefecture, number 3,333 in total. Completed in 1988 (Showa 63), they boast the highest number of steps in Japan and attract many tourists and challengers from across the country. In autumn, the foliage is beautiful, making it one of Kumamoto’s proud landmarks where visitors can enjoy walking amid nature.
What is the region called that stretches across the southwest of Kumamoto Prefecture and consists of 120 islands of various sizes?NEW!
- Amakusa
- Aso
- Yatsushiro
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Amakusa
Amakusa is located in the southwestern part of Kumamoto Prefecture and is a nature-rich area consisting of more than 120 islands of various sizes. Surrounded by beautiful seas, it is known for dolphin watching and fresh seafood. It is also famous for its unique culture and historical background, such as the history of the Hidden Christians, making it an attractive destination that draws many tourists from within and outside the prefecture.