Aso Takachiho road
The route connecting Aso and Takachiho offers a breathtaking transition from
volcanic landscapes to mystical deep gorges.
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Kurokawa Onsen
Kurokawa Onsen is the most popular hot spring resort in the Aso region,
located on the northern side of Mount Aso.
Widely known for its open-air baths, it is one of the best places to experience
traditional Japan. Over 20 traditional inns (Ryokan) and gift shops line the
Tanoharu River, a headstream of the Chikugo River.
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Onsen Tegata
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With an “Onsen Tegata,” a pass made of cedar wood, travelers can enjoy three different open-air hot springs. |
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Yukata |
Bath |
Dinner |
Explore the Onsen town
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Mount Naka
Mount Naka is part of Mount Aso.
Mount Aso consists of five consecutive peaks located within a caldera that spans
25 km north to south and 18 km east to west.
The most exciting peak is Mount Naka, standing at an altitude of 1,506 meters,
which is one of Japan’s most active volcanoes.
Depending on weather conditions, you can see inside the active crater from the top.
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Aso Shrine
Aso Shrine is one of Japan’s oldest and most prominent shrines, said to have
been founded in 282 BCE before the accession of Emperor Jimmu.
It is widely worshipped for its blessings, including protection against traffic
accidents, warding off evil (exorcism), matchmaking (marriage), and academic
success (learning).
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Hiburi-shinji Festival
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Nabegataki Watarfalls
Nabegataki Waterfall is a scenic tourist spot located just outside Oguni Town
in the Aso region.
As one of the area’s most famous waterfalls, it resembles a miniature Niagara
Falls. Notably, visitors can actually walk behind the wide curtain of water to
experience a unique viewpoint.
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The hidden tourist spot in Aso region |
View from outside of the Waterfalls |
View from behind the Waterfalls |
As a very unique waterfall, you can actually walk behind the falls to see how the
water has carved out the rock over the years.
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Aso Tourist Tram / Minami Aso Railwawy
Discover the natural wonders of Kumamoto on the Yusuge-go, a charming
open-air trolley train running between Tateno and Takamori stations.
Designed without windows to let you soak in the refreshing highland air,
it offers a relaxing, scenic ride through the massive Aso Caldera.
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Highlights of the Ride:
・Panoramic Views: Marvel at the majestic Aso Five Peaks and the lush,
rural landscapes of the southern Aso region.
・Thrilling Bridges: Experience the excitement of crossing high railway
bridges, including a stunning gorge over 60 meters deep.
・Heartwarming Guides: Enjoy lively commentary from the train staff,
who share stories about the area’s rich history and crystal-clear water
springs.
・Nostalgic Vibe: Relax in vintage-style carriages that evoke a sense
of Japanese history and rural charm
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Kusasenri-ga-hama
Daikanbo is located on the northern part of the outer rim of the Aso Caldera.
It is the perfect spot to view the Aso Five Mountains.
As a must-visit tourist spot in Aso, “Daikanbo” literally means a big observatory
peak. The circumference of the Aso Caldera is about 130 kilometers, and from
the observation site, you can clearly see its dramatic shape.
Early in the morning, clouds often spread out below, hanging over the caldera
like a large sea.
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Daikanbo
Daikanbo is located on the northern part of the outer rim of the Aso Caldera.
It is the perfect spot to view the Aso Five Mountains.
As a must-visit tourist spot in Aso, “Daikanbo” literally means a big observatory
peak. The circumference of the Aso Caldera is about 130 kilometers, and from
the observation site, you can clearly see its dramatic shape.
Early in the morning, clouds often spread out below, hanging over the caldera
like a large sea.
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Aso Onsen
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Experience a ‘Caldera Feast’ at Aso’s Japanese-style hotel (Ryokan), where
the menu celebrates the region’s volcanic bounty. Savor the lean, tender umami
of Aso Akaushi beef, raised on lush grasslands, alongside vibrant seasonal
vegetables grown in mineral-rich soil.
From river trout to rustic hearth-grilled ‘Dengaku,’ every dish offers an authentic
taste of Aso’s pristine waters and rich agricultural heritage.
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Yamanami Highway
Yamanami Highway is the Prefectural road Route 11 and one of the
most beautiful scenic driving roads in Kyushu.
The road is connected Yufuin in Oita-prefecture and Minamioguni town
in Aso, Kumamoto-prefecture, the distance is 50 km.
You can enjoy the magnificent natural scenery that changes with the
seasons.
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