[Kumamoto / Free Campsite] Yohai Hachinoji Plaza: A Hidden Gem for Kyushu Touring and Budget Camping

Hello and welcome! In this post, I’ll introduce Yohai Hachinoji Plaza, a free campsite located in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture.

Roughly 40 kilometers south of Kumamoto City, this site is an ideal stopover for riders touring southern Kyushu—especially those heading toward Kagoshima. No reservation needed, and completely free to use, making it perfect for solo campers on motorcycle trips.

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What is Yohai Hachinoji Plaza?

Yohai Hachinoji Plaza is a spacious riverside camping area along the banks of the river that flows through Yatsushiro. Though close to the city center, the site offers wide open space where you can freely pitch your tent—without feeling crowded.

Conveniently located near supermarkets, convenience stores, and local restaurants, it’s an extremely accessible and practical spot. Thanks to its balance of accessibility and freedom, it has gained popularity among touring campers.

Personally, I’ve used this location several times as a base for touring Aso, Amakusa, and Kagoshima. If you’re looking to save on accommodation during your journey, I can’t recommend it enough!

Why Yohai Hachinoji Plaza is a Great Choice:

Located about 40 km south of Kumamoto City with great access
Completely free to use, with no reservation required
Close to the city center—ideal for shopping and dining
Perfect midpoint for touring Aso, Amakusa, or Kagoshima

Important Notes Before You Camp

Watch out for event closures

Yohai Hachinoji Plaza is sometimes used for local festivals and events. On those days, camping is not allowed. To avoid arriving only to find the site unavailable, it’s a good idea to check the usage schedule in advance.

▶︎ [Usage Rules (Yatsushiro Tourism Portal)]
▶︎ [Check Event Schedule and Availability (Yatsushiro City Official Website)]

You can also check site availability on the monitor inside the restroom building.

Noise is a Real Factor — Don’t Forget Your Earplugs!

While camping is often about relaxing quietly in nature, Yohai Hachinoji Plaza is located near both a highway and a railway line. As a result, you’ll likely hear the sound of passing cars and trains throughout the day—and especially during the night or early morning hours around 4 AM.

If you’re a light sleeper or sensitive to noise, earplugs or noise-canceling earphones are strongly recommended. They can make a big difference in helping you get a good night’s rest.

That said, if you’re an early riser or don’t mind waking up with the first train, the morning noise could actually help you get a head start on your day.

Lawn Area B allows you to park your car or motorcycle right next to your tent

The Hisatsu Orange Railway runs close to the campsite

Recommended Gear for Noise Control

To make the most of your camping experience, peace and quiet can go a long way. However, depending on the night, you might also hear other campers talking or cars coming and going.

That’s where high-quality earplugs come in. Made from soft, comfortable materials, they fit securely and block out ambient sounds surprisingly well.

At first, I brought them along “just in case”—but now, they’re an essential part of my camping kit. With less noise to disturb me, I sleep more soundly and wake up feeling refreshed. I wouldn’t camp without them anymore!

【PR】TumugiMart MOLDEX 耳栓メテオ 6870 (8ペア) モルデックス Meteors 使い捨て最強防音 (メテオ 8)

Check it out on Amazon→

Convenience is Key: Nearby Shops and Facilities

One of the standout features of Yohai Hachinoji Plaza is just how convenient it is.

Only about 5 to 10 minutes away by car or bike, you’ll find plenty of supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants. This makes it incredibly easy to grab anything you need, especially for minimalist touring campers looking to travel light.

There are also several day-use hot spring facilities nearby—perfect for unwinding after setting up your tent. Enjoy a relaxing soak before settling in for the night!

Tsurunoyu Onsen Yatsushiro Branch

住所：Address: 505 Kawata-machi Nishi, Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture

Business Hours: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM

Phone: 0965-39-1000

Admission: Adults ¥450 / Elementary School Students ¥150(Note: Soap and shampoo are not provided—bring your own or purchase on site)

Website:http://tsurunoyu-onsen.com/yatsushiro.php

Facility Information — Basic but Reliable

Yohai Hachinoji Plaza offers only essential facilities, but they are kept clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable environment for campers.

Toilets: Available (Toilet paper provided)
Kitchen facilities: Not available (No dishwashing area)
Trash: Must take all garbage home (No leaving of ash or charcoal)
Open fires: Not allowed (Fire pits or BBQ grills are permitted)
Vending machines: Available
Reservations: Not required (First-come, first-served)

Vending machines located next to the toilet building

Summary: Yohai Hachinoji Plaza – A Free Campsite Perfect for Kyushu Touring

Yohai Hachinoji Plaza is the ideal camping spot for those who:

Want to enjoy solo camping on a budget
Are touring southern Kyushu and need a free place to stay overnight
Prefer a location close to town, with easy access to groceries and hot springs

While campers seeking complete silence might find the nearby traffic and train noise a bit distracting, the location and convenience more than make up for it.

As always, please follow the rules and etiquette so we can continue to enjoy and preserve this valuable campsite for years to come!