A note regarding the planned new JR Kumamoto Station: JR and the city government released plans for a 12-floor building with a single basement floor (which would make 13, I guess). The facility is slated to be occupied by retailers, a hotel, a wedding venue, and a movie theater. Exterior facade is planned to mimic the austere sense of the castle, though part will be glass-clad with a third-floor entrance to the railway set with trees and spaces to take in the views of the city and space for performances and other activities. Expansion will be aided by moving the existing railroad car service facility underground.
The area is hamstrung by the hills behind it and, according to my wife (who somehow seems to know this!), has a dark history of prostitution. Still, it’s nice that some people in the planning department have been busy, and perhaps new buildings will bring a new atmosphere. A schematic is available at the link. - William
