Sunroad Shinshigai

Sunroad Shinshigai (サンロード新市街) sits at the southern end of Shimotori in Kumamoto’s Chuo Ward, proudly holding its place as the city’s first downtown shopping arcade since 1903. Stretching 235 meters in length and 18 meters across, this covered thoroughfare was originally built to shelter shoppers from rain and sun. Its elegant steel-and-glass canopy and tiled floors evoke early 20th-century modernism, while original signage and storefront facades hint at the arcade’s storied past.

Today, Sunroad Shinshigai buzzes with activity from morning until late evening. Over 100 businesses line its pedestrian-only path, from cozy ramen shops and artisan bakeries to chic boutiques and souvenir stalls. In between shopping stops, visitors can test their luck in pachinko parlors, belt out tunes in karaoke rooms, or catch a film at the small cinema. With regular street performances, seasonal festivals, and easy access via tram or bus, Sunroad Shinshigai remains a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers seeking authentic Kumamoto flair.