An extremely central location in Kumamoto’s commercial district is just one of the attractions here; Omo5 Kumamoto occupies an eye-catching modern building which offers views of Kumamoto Castle from the terrace of its café and bar. The rooms are ultra-minimalist in style and plan, though certainly not without color, nor character — they’re far from traditional but feel like a natural evolution of classic Japanese hospitality design. This is a youth-oriented hotel, and one dedicated to teaching guests to live as locals; you’ll find an enthusiasm for the neighborhood and the city that goes beyond the ordinary concierge experience.