Kurume is a city located in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. With a population of over 300,000 residents, Kurume is a bustling city known for its traditional arts, crafts, and historical sites.
One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Kurume Kasuri Folk Craft Museum, which showcases the intricate weaving technique of Kurume Kasuri. This traditional fabric is known for its bold patterns and vibrant colors, and has been produced in Kurume for over 200 years.
In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Kurume is also known for its delicious food. The city is famous for its ramen noodles, which are made with a savory pork-based broth and topped with tender slices of chashu pork, green onions, and bamboo shoots.
Visitors to Kurume can also enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of the city, including the serene Kurume Forest Park and the picturesque Yanagawa River. The city is also home to several hot springs, where visitors can relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Overall, Kurume is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of traditional culture, modern amenities, and natural beauty. Visitors to Fukuoka Prefecture should definitely consider adding Kurume to their itinerary.
What to explore:
1. Ishibashi Memorial Park: A beautiful park with a lake, walking trails, and seasonal flowers, perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic.
2. Kurume Hyakunen Park: A historic park featuring a traditional Japanese garden, tea house, and wide variety of plants and trees.
3. Kurume Castle: A reconstructed castle that offers stunning views of the city and surrounding areas, as well as a museum showcasing the history of the area.
4. Kora Taisha Shrine: A historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture, with beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
5. Kurume Traditional Craft Center: A museum showcasing the traditional crafts and arts of the Kurume region, including indigo dyeing and weaving.
6. Kurume Univercity: A historic university known for its beautiful campus and traditional architecture, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
7. Yanagawa River Cruises: Take a boat ride along the tranquil canals of Yanagawa, located near Kurume, and enjoy the scenery of the picturesque waterways.
8. Water Land Kurume: A water park with pools, slides, and other attractions, perfect for a fun day out with family and friends.
9. Kurume Ramen: Sample the local specialty, Kurume ramen, a rich and flavorful noodle soup topped with char siu pork and served with a savory broth.
10. Kurume Azalea Festival: Visit in the spring to enjoy the beautiful displays of azalea flowers in bloom throughout the city.