Fodor's Expert Review Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Center

This is the best place to buy regional handicrafts. It's in a brick building across from the Akazu-mon entrance to the castle. Along with Higo zogan, check out the kiji-uma (literally, "pheasant horses"), a traditional toy for boys, or the hana-te-bako (flower-covered boxes), a traditional present for girls. On the second floor there is a Special Permanent Exhibition Room (¥210).