The Ultimate Traveler's Guide to Kumamoto's Aso: Top 32 Attractions and Gastronomic Delights!

Top 20 Must-Visit Attractions in Aso

Mt. Aso Nakadake Crater

At the heart of the world's largest caldera, created by the volcanic activity of Mount Aso, sits the Aso Nakadake.

The Aso caldera, with its impressive dimensions of 18km east-west and 25km north-south, is home to the towering Aso Five Peaks.

Among them, Nakadake continues to be highly active. The giant crater, 600 meters in diameter and 130 meters deep, offers a spectacular view of the emerald-green volcanic lake and the rising white smoke.

Access

• 《Car》 About 1 hour and 20 minutes from Kumamoto IC

Aso Farmland

Aso Farmland, located in Minamiaso, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, is a unique theme park overseen by health experts.

Within the park, you will find facilities dedicated to six themes:

• Exercise = Healthy physical activities
• Meals = Three meals a day
• Healing = Emotional well-being
• Accommodation = Staying in domes
• Experiences = Learning and interaction
• Shopping = Unique shopping experiences in Aso

The park is designed to promote "true health" for all generations, from children to seniors, through attractions that stimulate the body and mind, and fresh produce such as vegetables and mushrooms that are grown abundantly in the blessings of Aso's nature.

The exercise facilities include the "Genki no Mori" playground, which utilizes the magnificent forests and valleys of Aso, the "Genki Challenge Hall" with a giant maze and climbing obstacles, the "Toddler Challenge Hall" with playground equipment designed for children, and the "Physical Age Measurement Hall" where you can measure your physical age while playing games. There are many attractions that encourage children to think and challenge themselves.

The experience facilities include the "Animal Kingdom" where you can feed and interact with animals such as capybaras, maras, and flamingos, the "Handmade Experience Hall" where you can create travel memories by making candles or music boxes, the "Interesting Fishing Land" where you can experience fishing in a large aquarium, the "Interesting Aquarium Aqua" with a corner where you can touch sharks, and the "Relaxation Experience Room" where you can enjoy supreme relaxation. You can enjoy experiences unique to Aso Farmland.

After plenty of play, you can relax in the healing and dining facilities. In the healing facilities, you can relax your mind and body in the high-concentration oxygen relaxation dome "Oxygen Dome", experience a mud pack full of natural minerals at the "Magma Clay Spa", or in the health bathing therapy facility "Dome Reduction Bath".

In the dining facilities, you can enjoy meals with a well-considered nutritional balance supervised by a dietitian. You can fill your stomach at the "Oaso Restaurant", famous for its buffet using plenty of vegetables grown in the nature of Aso, or at the "Aso Mushroom Tei" where you can enjoy local Kumamoto cuisine featuring red beef and mushrooms.

You can enjoy a day trip, but there are also stylish dome-type accommodations within the farm. The domes come with open-air baths, private gardens, and some have exteriors designed like dinosaurs or soccer balls, creating rooms that will tickle the fancy of children.

Access

• 31km from Kumamoto IC on the Kyushu Expressway via National Route 57, Prefectural Routes 339 & 23, National Route 57, and Prefectural Route 298 towards Mount Aso.

Daikanbo

Daikanbo is a spectacular spot located at an altitude of 936 meters, offering a 360-degree panoramic view where you can overlook North Aso and Aso Valley, and the Aso Five Peaks. On some days, you can also see a sea of clouds below.

It's approximately a 15-minute walk from the parking lot to the observation deck.

The road to the top is well-paved asphalt, so you can climb it even with a wheelchair or stroller.

There are no roofed facilities up to the observation deck, so sun protection measures are necessary in spring and summer, and cold protection measures are needed in autumn and winter.

Access

• 25 minutes by Sanko Bus bound for Tsuetate from JR Hohi Main Line "Aso Station", get off at Daikanbo entrance, 15 minutes walk to the observation deck

Shirakawa Springs

Shirakawa Springs is the total water source of the clear stream Shirakawa that flows through Minami Aso Village. It was selected as one of the Top 100 Springs of Japan in 1986.

The spring water discharge is estimated to be 60 tons per minute, and you can also see the water springing from the ground.

There is a shrine next to the source where the water god is enshrined.

You can take the water from the source home for free, and heated treated water is also sold.

Access

• 53 minutes by Sanko Bus bound for Takamori Station from JR Hohi Main Line "Higo Ozu Station", get off at Shirakawa Spring entrance

Takamori Yusui Tunnel Park

Takamori Yusui Tunnel Park is located south of "Takamori Station" and can be reached in about a 10-minute walk.

The park was originally the site of a tunnel under construction for the railway connecting the old National Railway Takamori Line and Takachiho Line. However, the construction was interrupted due to a large amount of spring water. Despite several attempts to continue the project, the railway construction was eventually abandoned due to the abundant spring water, leading to the creation of Takamori Spring Water Tunnel Park.

The length of the tunnel is 2055m, and the amount of spring water is 32 tons per minute.

You can see water flowing like a waterfall from the rock walls inside the tunnel.

Additionally, every summer the park hosts a Tanabata Festival, and in winter, it presents a "Christmas Fantasy" illumination event. The illumination event is especially popular among couples for its romantic atmosphere, unexpected within a tunnel.

Access

• 10-minute walk from Minamiaso Railway "Takamori Station"

Kurokawa Onsen Village

Kurokawa Onsen Village is a hot spring town located in the central area of northern Kyushu, far from highways and stations, on the border with Oita Prefecture.

Until 2000, Kurokawa Onsen was such a remote hot spring that it did not even appear on the "Kumamoto Prefecture Universal Map" issued by a local newspaper.

After that, the "Open-Air Bath Tour" bathing pass became known, and it is now a hot spring resort known throughout the country.

Approximately 30 inns are gathered in this area surrounded by lush mountains, and you can enjoy the entire town as if it were "one inn".

Moreover, in addition to the hot springs, there are various events throughout the year.

In spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms, in summer there are firefly tours and the Kawabata Night Market where food stalls line the main street. In autumn, you can watch the Autumn Festival featuring Yoshida Kagura, a form of cultural heritage recognized by the government, and cycling, and in winter, there are illuminations from lanterns gently lighting the town.

This spot can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Access

• 50 minutes by Sanko Kyushu Crossing Bus (reservation required) bound for Kurokawa Onsen from JR Hohi Main Line "Aso Station", get off at Kurokawa Onsen

Kikuchi Valley

Kikuchi Valley is a gorge located in the northwest of the Aso Caldera, at an altitude of between 500m and 800m, and is part of the Aso-Kuju National Park.

Covered with natural broad-leaved trees, the stream flowing between them and the surrounding forest landscape are considered spectacular.

Especially in summer, the light rays that are often seen are popular with photographers, with some even challenging themselves to capture the scene from 4 am. The sight of the sun illuminating the mist from the valley's water is very popular.

In autumn, you can witness the calm autumnal colors unique to Kikuchi Valley.

As the temperature throughout the year is about 11-15 degrees, it is recommended to bring something long-sleeved to wear.

Access

• 30km by car towards Kikuchi Valley on National Route 3, Prefectural Route 53, National Route 387, and Prefectural Route 45 from Kyushu Expressway Ueki IC

Tsuetate Onsen

Tsuetate Onsen is a hot spring resort where inns line up on both sides of the Tsuetate River, which flows along the border between Oita and Kumamoto Prefectures.

Its history is old, and the beginning of Tsuetate Onsen is when Empress Jingu used it as a birth bath more than 1800 years ago.

The appearance of the hot spring village is very characteristic, you can see steam rising from all over the town across the river, and it has an atmospheric atmosphere, so it has been used as a location for many movies and dramas.

Furthermore, it is well-known for the high reputation of its spring quality, and it is also famous as a spa town.

There are many communal baths and steaming places, and it is a place where you can feel the connections between people.

Access

• 1 hour 25 minutes by Sanko Bus bound for Tsuetate Onsen from JR Hohi Main Line "Aso Station", get off at the end

Takachiho Shrine

Takachiho Shrine, established about 1900 years ago, is the chief shrine of the eighty-eight shrines of Takachiho-go. The main shrine and the iron Koma-Inu (guardian dogs) it houses are designated as important cultural properties of the country.

It is particularly revered as a deity of agriculture, warding off misfortune, and matchmaking.

Next to the main shrine is a cedar tree known as "Meoto-sugi," where two cedar trunks are joined. It is said that if a couple or lovers hold hands and walk around this tree three times, their wishes for matchmaking or having many descendants will come true. Also famous is the tranquil stone, which is believed to calm worries when prayed to.

(* Quoted in part from the website)

Access

• 1 hour 20 minutes by bus from JR Nippo Main Line "Nobeoka Station" to Miyazaki Kotsu Takachiho Bus Center, get off at the last stop, 15 minutes on foot

Manai Waterfall

Manai Waterfall, selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan, is a breathtaking sight with water falling from a height of about 17km. It is said to originate from the water of the heavenly Manai spring, which the god Ame no Murakumo no Mikoto is said to have transferred the water seeds from when there was no water in this land during the descent of the heavenly grandchild.

In the summer, the Manai Waterfall and the walkway are lit up, allowing you to enjoy a more mysterious atmosphere. Also, the season of autumn leaves is popular.

(* Quoted in part from the website)

Access

• 1 hour 20 minutes by bus from JR Nippo Main Line "Nobeoka Station" to Miyazaki Kotsu Takachiho Bus Center, get off at the last stop, 10 minutes by taxi

Yufuin Cobblestone Street

Located about a 20-minute drive from the center of Yufuin is the hot spring town of Yufuin Onsen. The Yufuin Cobblestone Street is a stone-paved road that runs through the center of this hot spring town.

Constructed about 300 years ago in the Edo period to ward off diseases, this cobblestone slope extends for about 500 meters. Along both sides of the slope, about 30 hot spring inns and souvenir shops are lined up, creating a charming townscape filled with a sense of nostalgia.

Every July, the largest nagashi somen event in Kyushu is held, and the 'Yufuin Large Nagashi Somen', a 300-meter long somen slide set up on the cobblestone slope, is a popular attraction for tourists.

Access

• About 20 minutes by car from the Oita Expressway Yufuin IC, or about 10 minutes by car from Yufuin Station on the JR Kyudai Main Line

Amanoiwato

Amanoiwato is the location mentioned in the Kojiki, one of Japan's oldest mythological texts, where the Sun Goddess Amaterasu hid herself in a cave, causing darkness to cover the world. When she hid, millions of deities are said to have gathered and held a council on this riverbank.

In the cave, which is about 40 meters wide, there was originally only a shrine, but now a torii gate has been erected. The stones piled up by the people who came to pray create an even more mysterious atmosphere.

Please note that when the river is flooded due to heavy rain, it may not be possible to pay a visit.

Access

• Take a bus for 1 hour 20 minutes from JR Nippo Main Line "Nobeoka Station" to Miyazaki Kotsu Takachiho Bus Center, change to the town-run Iwato bus, and get off at the last stop after a 15-minute ride. From there, it's a 10-minute walk.

Waterfall of Compassion

The Waterfall of Compassion is an unusual two-tiered waterfall with a total drop of 30 meters: 20 meters for the upper level and 10 meters for the lower level.

It's also known as the "backside view waterfall" as you can walk behind the falling water. The waterfall is illuminated at night.

It's believed that walking around the waterfall clockwise brings good fortune.

Access

• Right by the Sugikawachi Station on the JR Kyudai Main Line

Sakura Waterfall

The Sakura Waterfall, 25 meters high and 15 meters wide, is described in the historical record "Bungo no Kuni Shi" as "crashing like blossoms and cascading like a sudare blind." It got its name because the spray from the water hitting the rocks mid-fall looks like cherry blossoms dancing in the wind.

Also, as it's just about a 10-minute walk from the train station, one of its attractions is that you can easily stop by for a walk.

(*Some information quoted from the website)

Access

• 5 minutes walk from Amagase Station on the JR Kyudai Main Line

Takatsuka Atago Jizo

The Takatsuka Atago Jizo is believed to have been founded by a Buddhist monk named Gyoki over 1200 years ago during the Nara period.

It is considered rare because it maintains the mixed format of Shinto and Buddhism.

It is extremely popular for its blessings that are said to grant any wish, with over 1.5 million annual visitors.

The grounds include the "Carrying Jizo," where you can make wishes while holding a Jizo statue, the "Ball of Blessing," where you can pray by touching the ball for receiving the Jizo's grace, the "Single-minded tunnel," a worship tunnel that enshrines Enma and the Six Jizo, and the "Dedication Jizo" where over 2000 Jizo statues donated by devotees are enshrined.

The area surrounding the Jizo is lined with souvenir shops, making it a tourist spot.

Access

• Take the Hita Bus to Takatsuka from Bungo Nakagawa Station on the JR Kyudai Main Line. It's a 10-minute ride, and the stop is right at the end of the line.

Yufuin Hot Springs

A hot spring town located at the foot of Mount Yufu in Yufu City, Oita Prefecture. With the nation's second-highest amount of hot spring discharge and number of source springs, it's one of Japan's top hot spring towns.

There are plenty of hot springs for day-trip bathing as well as for overnight stays. The website includes "Yufuin Walking Map" and "Yufuin Strolling Map," which list shrines, temples, and tourist information centers in Yufuin, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely stroll while checking the map.

In the city, you can also enjoy rickshaw rides, art facilities, and tourist horse-drawn carriages, so you can enjoy the whole city, not just the hot springs.

Access

• 5-minute walk from Yufuin Station on the JR Kyudai Main Line

Ueki Hot Springs

Located about 40 minutes by car from the center of Kumamoto City, Ueki Hot Springs is the only hot spring inn town in Kumamoto City where you can stay overnight.

With a history of about 130 years since its opening, the spring water, often referred to as "beauty water", is known for its creamy texture similar to that of a cosmetic lotion. Each inn has its own source, so the quality of the spring water varies slightly from inn to inn.

The alkaline water with a pH of around 8.0 is said to increase metabolism and is popular among women in their 20s and 30s as a "beauty bath".

Access

• Take the Sanko Bus from Kumamoto Station to the Sanko Bus Traffic Center for 10 minutes, change to the Sanko Bus bound for Yamaoka Hot Springs via Ueki Hot Springs at Kumamoto Traffic Center for 50 minutes, and get off at Ueki Hot Springs.

Aso Cuddly Dominion

The Aso Cuddly Dominion, a representative zoo of Aso. This zoo is located at the foot of Mt. Aso, where you can see and feed a variety of animals such as bears and penguins.

Pan-kun, a chimpanzee famous on TV, also lives here.

It is the only zoo in Western Japan where you can hold a bear cub, and it is an amusement park that can be enjoyed by families from children to adults.

Not only are there interactive events, but also animal shows.

Access

• About a 3-minute taxi ride from Aso Station on the JR Hohi Main Line, or about 50 minutes by car from the Kyushu Expressway Kumamoto IC.

Sakura no Baba Josaien

Sakura no Baba Josaien is located at the foot of Kumamoto Castle. It is a tourist facility that was created with the concept of "We want to enhance the charm of the castle and the castle town by disseminating the food culture, history, and traditions of the area from Kumamoto Castle, the symbol of Kumamoto."

In Sakura Komichi, 23 shops line up, making it a fun place to buy Kumamoto souvenirs and enjoy street food. You can enjoy the local food culture and history with soft ice cream topped with Anno sweet potato paste and bracken rice cake at various shops.

Access

• Kumamoto Airport Bus Stop to Sakuramachi Bus Terminal. Fare: Round trip 1460 yen. Time required: About 50 minutes. 10 minutes walk from Sakuramachi Bus Terminal.
• Kumamoto Castle Tour Bus (Shiromegurin).
• Kumamoto Station Mae Tram Stop to Hanabatacho Tram Stop. Fare: Adults 170 yen, Children 90 yen. Time required: About 12 minutes. About 4 minutes walk from the tram stop.

Roadside Station Aso (ASO Countryside Space Museum)

Roadside Station Aso is located directly in front of the Aso Five Peaks and features a superb location. In addition to being able to purchase Aso specialties such as vegetables, fruits, and dairy products, there are also guides for activities such as sightseeing and cycling.

Access

• About 50 minutes from Kumamoto IC.

Must-Visit! Aso's Exquisite Gourmet Spots

Over 100 years of history, the place to go for Aka Beef Bowl is "Imakin Shokudo"!

Imakin Shokudo is a popular eatery with a history of over 100 years.

The popular dishes on their menu are "Aka Beef Bowl" and "Champon".

The Aka Beef Bowl features Kumamoto's famous Aka beef, which is cooked rare, covering a bowl of rice, topped with a soft-boiled egg. This signature dish is so popular that there are queues every day. Now, you can also make a takeout reservation on their website, so you can enjoy the Aka Beef Bowl without waiting.

The Champon features a soup made from Japanese-style stock and plenty of vegetables.

The thick noodles provide a satisfying bite.

Access

• About 1 hour from Kumamoto IC.

The Overflowing Steak at "Hibari Grill"

"Hibari Workshop" continues to make their own ham and sausages by hand. Their sausages, which have won gold at a meat contest in Germany, can be tasted at their restaurant, "Hibari Grill".

You can enjoy freshly smoked meats, steaks, hamburgers, and more while overlooking the Aso Five Peaks.

The restaurant's signature dish is the "Hibari Steak", where you can taste a ribeye steak so large it overflows from the griddle.

Of course, their prized sausages, ham, and bacon can also be purchased in the store, making them perfect for souvenirs.

Access

• About 1 hour from Kumamoto IC.

Croquettes Made with Horse Meat at "Aso Torimiya"

"Aso Torimiya" is a longstanding butcher shop established in the Showa 30s. They have been creating delicious products rooted in the local area, such as horse sashimi, Aka beef, horse meat croquettes, and side dishes.

The most popular item in the shop is the horse meat croquette, which is freshly fried upon order, allowing you to enjoy it hot and fresh.

While you can enjoy a walk and eat around the vicinity of Aso Shrine, it is also recommended to eat in at the shop.

Access

• About 50 minutes from Kumamoto IC. About a 10-minute walk from JR "Miyaji Station".

Mitsui Port Club

The Mitsui Port Club has a history of over 100 years since its opening, and has been a beloved place as a guesthouse.

Having welcomed a master of French cuisine as supervisor, the lunch and dinner menus have been revised, allowing you to savor more exquisite flavors.

With lunch courses starting from 3000 yen, it's recommended to enjoy exceptional French cuisine as a memory of your sightseeing.

Access

• About 10 minutes by car from JR "Omuta Station".

The Go-To Spot for Taipien (Gourmet Food): "Koran-tei Shimodori Main Store"

Taipien is a noodle dish that originated from a Chinese regional cuisine brought to Nagasaki and was later arranged in a Japanese style. It was subsequently introduced to Kumamoto, where it became a soul food using local ingredients. It looks similar to Nagasaki Chanpon, but uses vermicelli noodles. A distinctive feature is the fried egg on top.

"Koran-tei Shimodori Main Store", which was established in Showa 9, has been offering this noodle dish, which was originally eaten all over Kyushu mainly by Chinese immigrants, as Taipien since its inception.

Access

• About 15 minutes from Izumi IC. About a 3-minute walk from Kumamoto City Tram A Line/B Line "Tsuji-machi Station".

For the Local Gourmet Lotus Root with Mustard, Try "Mori Karashi Renkon Main Store"

"Mori Karashi Renkon" continues to preserve the flavor that has lasted since the Edo period, and is still handmade to this day.

The famous lotus root with mustard, a representative local cuisine of Kumamoto, dates back about 400 years, when the owner of this shop offered it to Lord Tadatoshi Hosokawa, the feudal lord at the time.

The local gourmet food with a perfectly spicy and crisp texture is also appreciated as a souvenir.

Access

• About 15 minutes from Izumi IC. Immediately from Kumamoto City Tram B Line "Shinmachi Station".

Introducing Recommended Sightseeing Spots Around Aso

Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto Castle was built by the master castle builder and Sengoku military commander, Kato Kiyomasa.

The characteristics of the castle tower include an architectural style called "Chidori Hafu" (gables) arranged on all four sides and "Kara Hafu" arranged on the top floor north and south.

The most famous is the steep stone wall "Musha Gaeshi (Ninobi Gaeshi)", which even a ninja couldn't climb. There are many small tricks in preparation for war.

There is also an unusual underground passage among the palace buildings all over Japan, which you can tour.

Kumamoto Castle is surrounded by rich nature in and around the castle, so you can see the castle with cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter, allowing you to enjoy the atmospheric appearance of the castle throughout the year.

*Kumamoto Castle suffered extensive damage in the Kumamoto earthquake and is currently halfway through recovery.

The castle tower has been restored, but many places within the premises are still restricted from entry.

(* Partly quoted from the official website)

Access

• About 30 minutes from Kumamoto IC.

Suizenji Park

The official name is Suizenji Jojuen. It's a Momoyama-style strolling garden designated as a scenic spot and historic site of the country.

The first Tadatoshi Hosokawa of the Higo Hosokawa family, who built a teahouse in the early Edo period, started it.

The water springs from Aso in the park have been selected as one of the 100 best waters of the Heisei era, so pay attention to the transparency of the pond in the park.

There is a Izumi Shrine in the park, where water called "Longevity Water" springs up, which is said to live long if you drink it.

In the spring, cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and a summer festival is held in the summer, bustling with many tourists including locals.

Access

• JR: 80 minutes, Express Bus: 100 minutes, Car: 100 minutes

Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture is a gorge that became columnar joints due to the pyroclastic flow spewed out by the eruption of the Aso Volcano, which was rapidly cooled by the Gokase River.

It was designated as a natural monument and scenic spot of the country in 1934. In the vicinity, there are spots like Manai Falls, which has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, and many mystical places such as "Onokoro Island", "Tsukigata", and "Oni Hachi's Power Stone" that appear in myths.

Also, speaking of Takachiho Gorge, Manai Falls seen from a rented boat. You can look up at the stunning view from the water, different from the view from the promenade.

Access

• About 1 hour 40 minutes from Kumamoto IC.

Kuju Flower Park

Kuju Flower Park is a park with a flower field of about 220,000 square meters on the Kuju Plateau at an altitude of 850m.

It was created with the thought of "I want to create a place where young people to the elderly can play, see flowers, feel relaxed, and feel a sense of excitement, and I want you to feel an extraordinary world surrounded by nature."

True to its concept, not only enjoying looking at flowers but also many experiential events are planned, such as flower events according to the season of flowers, tulip bulb digging experiences, lavender picking experiences, and the "Flower Park Craft Fair" mainly held by craft artists using natural materials during the summer vacation.

(* Partly quoted from the official website)

Access

• From JR Hohi Main Line "Bungo Takeda Station", take the Ono Takeda Bus for Kuju via Direct Branch Office for 20 minutes, get off at Kuju Branch Office, then take a taxi for 10 minutes.

Kuju "Dream" Suspension Bridge

The Kuju "Dream" Suspension Bridge, also known as "The Sky Walkway," is the highest pedestrian-only suspension bridge in Japan with a length of 390m, a height of 173m, and a width of 1.5m. It opened in 2006.

From the bridge, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of nature, including the Shindo Falls, which are among the top 100 waterfalls in Japan, the male and female waterfalls, and the Naruko River Valley.

Especially in autumn, when you can also enjoy the autumn leaves, it has become a popular season.

Access

• From JR Kyudai Main Line "Bungo Nakamura Station", take the Kuju Town Community Bus to Kuju Tozanguchi for 25 minutes, get off at Oturibashi Nakamura-guchi, and walk for 3 minutes.

https://www.yumeooturihashi.com/eng/

Kusasenri-ga-hama

Kusasenri-ga-hama is a large prairie located at the foot of the north side of Eboshi-dake, one of the Aso Five Peaks, and is a representative tourist spot in Aso.

The large ponds reflecting the sky and the horses grazing and walking freely create a rare scene seldom seen in Japan.

In addition to the vivid greenery of summer and the silver world of winter, at night you can see a full sky of stars. It is a place that has captivated many people throughout the year.

Because of volcanic activity, there are some places you cannot approach, so if you plan to visit personally, please check the Aso Volcano Disaster Prevention Council's website in advance.

Access

• 70 minutes by car from the Kyushu Expressway Kumamoto IC.

Model Courses for Aso Sightseeing by Length of Stay

Day Trip Model Course for Aso Sightseeing

We introduce a day trip course for touring Aso by car.

10:00 Aso Milk Road

Drive on the Aso Milk Road, touring around the ridge and visiting the viewpoints.

You can enjoy several superb spots, such as the Kabuto Rock Viewpoint, Nishiyunohara Park Observation Deck, and Aso Skyline Viewpoint.

The main highlight is Daikanbo. Don't miss the panoramic view of Aso Mountain, the town at its foot, and the Kuju Mountain Range in Oita Prefecture. At the "Aso Daikanbo Tea Shop," you can also enjoy their famous soft-serve ice cream.

11:30 Lunch at Imakin Diner

After enjoying the spectacular views, it's time for an early lunch. You can enjoy their famous Aka Beef Bowl.

For those who are worried about the restaurant's congestion, you can order for takeaway and receive your food without waiting in line.

13:00 Pray at Aso Shrine

Visit the shrine and the gate, both of which are designated as important cultural properties of Japan.

14:00 Food tour at Torimiya

Enjoy the specialty, "Horse Rock."

14:30 Shopping at the Roadside Station

You can shop for souvenirs and memories of your trip, such as vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and other Aso specialties.

The sweets that you can only taste here are also attractive.

15:30 Kusasenri

On a sunny day, the large pond reflecting the sky becomes a photo spot. You can also be healed by the sight of cows and horses leisurely grazing.

16:15 Aso Nakadake Crater

Visit the scenery at the center of one of the world's largest calderas, created by the volcanic activity of Mt. Aso. The view of the smoke rising from the emerald green volcanic lake can only be seen here.

18:00 Dinner around "Kumamoto Station"

Around "Kumamoto Station," there are many restaurants where you can enjoy horse meat and shops where you can enjoy sake made in Kumamoto Prefecture.

Aso Sightseeing 1 Night 2 Days Model Course

We will introduce a 1 night 2 days model course for sightseeing in Aso by car.

【Day 1】

11:00 Kikuchi Valley

After arriving at Kumamoto Airport and renting a car, head first to Kikuchi Valley.

Kikuchi Valley is a valley located in one corner of Aso Kuju National Park.

Covered with natural broad-leaved trees, the stream created by the flowing water and the appearance of the surrounding forest are superb, and the characteristic is the water surface that changes to cobalt blue or emerald green depending on the time of day.

13:00 Aso Nature Land

At Aso Nature Land, take a walk in the sky in the great outdoors! Enjoy a panoramic view with a paraglider experience.

15:00 Daikanbo Observatory

You can also have a slightly late lunch at the restaurant here.

Not only the view from the observatory, but also the view from the parking lot to the observatory is so scenic that it can be a photo spot.

16:30 Uchimaki Hot Spring

Stay at the most famous hot spring inn in Kumamoto Prefecture. You can also enjoy a tour of the eight town baths. Since each town bath has a different source, you can enjoy it.

On this day, enjoy the hot spring tour and dinner at the accommodation, relax and prepare for the next day.

【Day 2】

10:30 Kusasenri

On a sunny day, a large pond that reflects the sky becomes a photo spot. You can also be healed by the sight of grazing cows and horses eating grass leisurely.

12:00 Aso Farm Land

A theme park based on the themes of nature and health, where you can play all day. Both couples and families with children can enjoy and spend a fulfilling time.

16:00 Aso Nakadake Crater

At the end of the trip, visit the scenery at the center of the world's largest caldera created by the volcanic activity of Aso Mountain. The view of smoke rising from the emerald green volcanic lake can only be seen here.

Aso Sightseeing 2 Nights 3 Days Model Course

We will introduce a 2 nights 3 days model course for sightseeing in Aso by car.

【Day 1】

12:00 Lunch at Makinaiya MATSU

Upon arriving at Kumamoto Airport and renting a car, head to the Aso area. It takes about 1 hour from the airport to the Aso area.

Located just a short walk from Miyaji Station, "Caldera Plate" is popular. It is a unique dish where you can pour Hayashi sauce on Akagyudon, symbolizing Aso Mountain's caldera.

13:30 Kusasenri

About a 25-minute drive from the lunch spot.

On a sunny day, the large pond at Kusasenri that reflects the sky becomes a photo spot. You can also be healed by the sight of grazing cows and horses eating grass leisurely.

15:30 Aso Nakadake Crater

Visit the scenery at the center of the world's largest caldera created by the volcanic activity of Aso Mountain.

18:00 Uchimaki Onsen

About a 35-minute drive from Aso Mountain, Uchimaki Onsen is the most famous hot spring inn in Kumamoto Prefecture. You can also enjoy a tour of the town's 8 different hot springs. Each hot spring has a different source, so you can enjoy each one.

【Day 2】

7:00 Morning Hot Air Balloon Experience at Aso Nature Land

Recommended for those who are good in the morning. You can start the day with a sunrise and spectacular views from a height of about 40m.

9:00 Daikanbo Observatory

About a 20-minute drive from Aso Nature Land.

10:00 Nabe Falls Park (Nabegataki Park)

About a 30-minute drive from Daikanbo Observatory. You can see a mysterious curtain of forest about 20m wide.

11:30 Lunch at Tofu Kichijo

Near Kurokawa Onsen, you can enjoy a tofu set meal made with clear stream Kurokawa water and soybeans from Kyushu at Tofu Kichijo.

12:30 Kurokawa Onsen Tour and Stay

After lunch, take a stroll around Kurokawa Onsen. The popular "Outdoor Bath Tour" bathing ticket is popular, and you can enter any 3 of 28 outdoor baths per ticket.

【Day 3】

10:00 To Kumamoto City

About a 2-hour drive from Kurokawa Onsen. You will arrive in Kumamoto City.

12:00 Kogane Ramen Ginza Store

Once you arrive in the city, enjoy Kumamoto's specialty "Kumamoto Ramen".

13:00 Sakura-no-baba Josaien

Located at the foot of Kumamoto Castle, it is a fun place for Kumamoto souvenirs and eating. Various shops offer soft serve ice cream topped with Anno potato paste and bracken rice cake, making it the perfect place to enjoy dessert.

15:00 Kumamoto Castle

Explore the historic Kumamoto Castle. It is lit up until 23:00 at night, and it is also recommended to enjoy it at this time.

18:00 Kumamoto Airport

It takes about 1 hour from Kumamoto City to the airport. Buy souvenirs and memories of your trip at the airport and head home.

Aso Sightseeing Spot MAP

Enjoy the Dynamic Nature Born from One of the World's Leading Volcanoes!

We have introduced popular sightseeing spots and recommended spots that you would want to visit when you come to Aso.

The scenic spots and theme parks woven by the vast land of Aso and abundant water allow you to feel the grandeur of nature along with healing. There are also hot spring spots, making it a recommended spot for those who want to relax leisurely or those who want to play hard with children.

*Thank you for reading the article!
To improve YOKKA's service, we kindly request your participation in a survey below.