Get ready for a fantastic final weekend of February in Kumamoto! We have fun art workshops, beautiful outdoor illuminations, and some unique cultural exhibitions perfect for the whole family. Don't miss the Bear Art Experience or the wonderful displays of plum blossoms signaling spring!
See our top picks
Furumachi Flea Market Vol. 21
Carino MS Building
Browse unique antiques and used goods downtown for free entry.
Natsume's Book of Friends Season 7 Exhibition
Yunomae Manga Museum
An indoor manga exhibition with photo spots perfect for anime fans.
Bear Art Experience Pop-up
Grand Messe Kumamoto
A simple, fun painting activity where kids can easily make their own souvenir bear.
· February 28
3: Time to create your very own unique bear figure by dripping paint on a white base! This is a special two-day pop-up happening alongside the Kumanichi Spice Thanksgiving Festival. It sounds like a perfect hands-on activity for creative kids.This is a special, limited-run hands-on art event perfect for getting messy and creative.
FREE : Experience the magical evening atmosphere at Kurokawa Onsen as hundreds of locally crafted bamboo illuminations light up the historic hot spring area. This is a wonderful family walk after dark.It's a stunning, free evening activity perfectly situated for this weekend.
: Anime fans (parents and kids alike) can check out panels of famous scenes and lines from Season 7 of the beloved series. They even have photo spots where you can jump right into the world of the show!This event explicitly mentions being fun for parents and children together, focusing on a popular anime series.
· March 1
2: Catch the final day of this lovely plum bonsai exhibition, a great way to sense the arrival of spring in Kumamoto. It’s a beautiful, low-key cultural outing for the whole family.It’s the absolute last day (March 1st) to see these carefully cultivated plum bonsai displays.
FREE : Enjoy the ethereal beauty of illuminated paper umbrellas and bamboo candles lighting up Yamaga city streets this winter evening. This runs through the weekend, offering a beautiful photo opportunity.A free, enchanting winter light display that is definitely family-friendly.
Also On· anytime this weekend
4FREE : Head downtown to browse carefully selected used goods, antiques, and clothing while enjoying the transition from winter to spring. Entry is completely free, making it a great casual Saturday stop.It's a completely free entry event happening both days downtown, offering a chance to browse unique finds.
: Join a hands-on workshop at the DCM Motoyama store this Sunday! The staff will guide beginners and small children through the process, and you don't need to worry about cleanup.It’s specifically designed for beginners and little kids, ensuring a positive, guided DIY experience.
: This is the last day for the first major exhibition tracing the 30-year career of acclaimed manga artist Fumiyo Kouno. If your older kids enjoy Japanese comics or illustration, this is a great cultural stop.It is the final day (March 1st) for this significant art exhibition in central Kumamoto.
FREE : If you have a car and love solving puzzles, join this multi-prefecture mystery adventure starting in Aso City! It's a free touring event with prizes related to Southern Kyushu specialties.This is a free, engaging, multi-location mystery game that encourages exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Kumamoto this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 28-01) you can enjoy the Furumachi Flea Market Vol. 21 downtown, visit the enchanting Kurokawa Onsen Yu Akari Illumination in the evening, or participate in the Southern Kyushu Treasure Hunt Mystery Adventure starting in Aso City.
Are there any outdoor winter light displays happening?
Yes, both the Kurokawa Onsen Yu Akari Illumination and the Yamaga Winter Lantern Festival 2026 are running this weekend, offering beautiful evening walks perfect for the family.
Where can my kids do a creative activity this weekend?
We recommend the Bear Art Experience Pop-up at Grand Messe Kumamoto on Saturday, or the DIY Event at the DCM Motoyama Store on Sunday, which is specifically geared toward small children.
