Hi there! This time, I visited Tsushida Kasen Nature Park, a completely free campsite located in Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto Prefecture.
It’s an ideal base for exploring scenic spots like Mount Aso or Takachiho Gorge, and also makes a super convenient overnight stop when heading down towards Kagoshima.
With its quiet and laid-back atmosphere, it’s perfect for solo campers and motorbike tourers who want to relax in nature.
What Is Tsushida Kasen Nature Park?
Located about 15 km south of central Kumamoto City, Tsushida Kasen Nature Park is a peaceful riverside campsite surrounded by nature.
Its biggest attraction? It’s completely free to use!
The site is well-maintained, and you’ll find a quiet, relaxing vibe that’s great for a calm outdoor stay.
There’s a wide grassy field with plenty of space to pitch your tent.
On weekdays, the campsite is often quiet—so you might even have the whole lawn to yourself!
How to Use Tsushida Kasen Nature Park (Free Campsite)
To use the campsite, you’ll need to submit a usage form, but no worries—it’s easy!
Just go to the official Kosa Town website, where you can submit the form online.
No need to make phone calls or send emails. Simply fill out the form and you’re good to go.
As someone who often decides where to camp at the last minute, this kind of hassle-free process is a huge plus!
Tsushida Kasen Nature Park Usage Application Form (Official Kosa Town Website)
Why Tsushida Kasen Nature Park is Perfect for a Kyushu Touring Base
Here’s why this campsite is an excellent choice for anyone touring Kyushu by bike or car:
- Direct access to stunning scenic routes like the Milk Road, Kenny Road, and Yamanami Highway near Mt. Aso
- Conveniently located for those heading toward Kagoshima, making it ideal as a stopover for a Kyushu round-trip
- Completely free to use, saving you money on accommodations and making it budget-friendly
For those looking to explore southern Kyushu with Kumamoto as a base, this is truly an ideal location.
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Recommended Gear for a Peaceful Night’s Sleep
One of the best things about camping in nature is the peace and quiet—but let’s be real: it’s not always guaranteed. Sometimes, late-night conversations or vehicle noise can disturb your rest.
That’s why a pair of high-quality earplugs is a game changer.
These earplugs offer a soft, comfortable fit and outstanding noise reduction. They’re a must-have for campers who want a good night’s sleep.
Personally, I never go camping without them anymore. They’ve helped me sleep soundly by blocking out distractions—and now, I honestly can’t imagine a trip without them!
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Fully Equipped Nearby! No Worries About Supplies
Worried that a free campsite might be far from stores? No need!
Within a 10–15 minute drive, you’ll find supermarkets, convenience stores, and home centers—everything you need to stock up on food, firewood, or camping gear.
That said, keep in mind that Tsushida Kasen Nature Park has no sink or trash facilities, so you’ll need to wash your dishes off-site and pack out all your trash and ashes from campfires.
Address: 353 Hetami, Mifune, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto
TEL：096-281-7555
Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Notes & Facilities at Tsushida Kasen Nature Park
Since this is a nature park, facilities are simple and minimal—something to keep in mind when planning your visit.
- Toilets: Available
- Sink / Washing Station: Not available
- Trash: Must be packed out (Ashes and charcoal from fires must also be taken home—disposal on-site is prohibited)
- Campfires / BBQs: Open fires directly on the ground are not allowed. Use of fire pits or BBQ grills is permitted.
- Vending Machines: Available (located near the park entrance)
Vending Machines are located near the park entrance.
There is only one toilet facility, so if you set up your tent far from it, it might be inconvenient. Choose your campsite location accordingly.
While campers are expected to take their trash home, I did find trash bins for cans and PET bottles near the toilet.
Inside the restroom, there was even a first-aid kit and packets of Ukon (a Japanese turmeric supplement often used for liver health and hangover prevention)—a thoughtful touch that you wouldn’t expect at a free campsite.
That said, due to a rise in poor manners among some users, there have been cases where use of the site has been restricted. To preserve this wonderful place for everyone, let’s all follow the rules and be respectful when using the site.
The toilet was clean, equipped with a bidet (washlet) and stocked with toilet paper.
All in all, the site is impressively well-maintained, and it’s clear that the good manners of fellow campers play a big part in keeping it that way.
Final Thoughts｜A Perfect Spot for Quiet, Budget-Friendly Camping
Tsushida Kasen Nature Park is one of the best free campsites in Kumamoto, and a perfect base for touring around Kyushu.
- Want to enjoy a solo camping trip without spending much?
- Looking for a good midpoint while touring all of Kyushu?
- Need a convenient base to access Aso or Kagoshima?
If any of these sound like you, this campsite is a great fit.
Come and enjoy some slow, peaceful time surrounded by nature.
