Shoichi Ishihara "Mebae" Sculpture & Choroku Bridge, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto

Live Camera | Shoichi Ishihara "Mebae" Bronze Sculpture at Choroku Bridge, Kumamoto, Japan. Positioned along the scenic banks of the Shirakawa River at the foot of historic Choroku Bridge, this elegant public sculpture titled "Mebae" (Sprouting), created by renowned artist Shoichi Ishihara, symbolizes vitality, urban rebirth, and dynamic cultural heritage. Gentle river breezes brush past lush riverside pathways. A short stroll into central Kumamoto leads to culinary institutions serving fresh cherry-pink basashi (horse meat sashimi), crisp pungent karashi renkon (mustard-filled lotus root), and aromatic garlic-laced Kumamoto tonkotsu ramen. ✦ Must-Visit Highlights: ▸ Expressive Riverfront Art: Admire Shoichi Ishihara's poetic bronze sculpture celebrating urban regeneration by the Shirakawa River. ▸ Shirakawa Waterside Promenades: Take peaceful walks along paved riverbanks viewing Kumamoto's dynamic city skyline. ▸ Authentic Basashi & Karashi Renkon: Experience Kumamoto's signature culinary treasures: melting raw horsemeat sashimi and spicy lotus root.