Higokko Jungle

It can be tough to take your kids on vacation. Endless restaurant meals, long train or plane rides, and hours spent in museums and galleries can test the patience of even any veteran traveler, no matter their age. Luckily, Kumamoto has the perfect answer for kids who just need time to ... well, be kids.

The Higokko Jungle playground is the playground I always dreamed of as a child. The main structure towers above the grassy field, sporting at least four long slides, one a red spiral slide that curves down over two staircase levels. To get to these slides, kids have to climb ladders, scale walls and navigate swinging rope bridges. There are multiple pathways with hidden corners and plenty of room for the dozens of youngsters who flock here on weekends. Adults are welcome to accompany their kids on all of the equipment and taller individuals will find there aren't too many low-hanging bars that threaten concussions.

For younger kids, an equally entertaining play set sits just off to the side. With short slides, easy staircases and a few challenging hand-eye coordination activities, it's the perfect area for toddlers and kids who just aren't ready to tackle the big jungle gym.

There are a number of benches and tables encircling the playground, so feel free to bring a picnic lunch. You'll find water fountains on site but no trash bins, so pack your waste out. If your kids tire of the equipment, there is also a nearby baseball and soccer field (supply your own gear).

The Higokko Jungle playground and recreational area sits in the northern part of Kumamoto City, not far from the Kita Kumamoto train station. You can access the playground via public transportation (cross the tracks and head towards the soccer field when you exit the station) or you can use your own set of wheels to head north from the city center on Route 3, turning left after the (only) McDonalds. Two more lefts at each of the subsequent traffic lights will lead you to the parking area. Be warned - it's still a hike from the parking lot to the actual playground.