Kikuchi is a city located in the north of Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. It has a population of around 52,000 people and is known for its forests, mountains, and rivers. Some notable products from Kikuchi include yubeshi rice cakes, kasumisou flowers, and yakon plants. Melons are also grown in the Shitijou area. Kikuchi is home to several hot spring locations, notably Kikuchi Onsen, which has mineral-rich waters around 40-42 degrees Celsius. Fireflies can be found living near the Kikuchi River and in the Kyokushi area, indicating the cleanliness of the local water sources.