Oshitoishi Hill 押戸石- Minami Oguni Oshitoishi has the reputation of a powerspot, a group of mysterious standing stones situated on a hill on the pyroclastic flows above the northern caldera edge of the giant Aso caldera. On top of the grassy hillside there is a mysterious line of rocks. The largest is over 10 metres high。 The […]
Oshitoishi Hill 押戸石の丘 Read More »
Ogidake View Point A neighbour’s recommendation took us to the Ogidake view point 荻岳(Mount Ogi) east of Aso one sunny Sunday in February. The Ogidake lookout is one of the few points from where you can get panoramic views of Kyushu’s 3 major mountain ranges, Aso, Kuju and Sobo. On a clear day the views are
Ogidake View Point 荻岳 Read More »
Just over the border into Miyazaki Prefecture, the romantic Takachiho Gorge winds its way through the sleepy town of Takachiho. The gorge was formed from the pyroclastic flow of the Aso volcanos, when sudden cooling led to dramatic columnar formations and sheer cliffs that rise above the river between 80 to 100 m high. At the
Takachiho Gorge 高千穂峡 Read More »
Kusasenri The view of Kusasenri is one of the iconic scenes of Kumamoto; a vast emerald green grassland plateau with peacefully grazing cows and horses reflected in the still crater ponds on the top of the central peaks of Aso. The name Kusasenri 草千里 means a thousand leagues of grass and the peaceful vista today belies its violent history. Standing on the
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Daikanbo Viewpoint The name given to the prime viewpoint of Aso, from here dramatic 360 degree views reveal the panoramic expanse of the whole caldera and the rolling grasslands behind. On a clear day this point gives you the best views of ‘Nehanzo’, the sleeping buddha, its silhouette formed by the central 5 peaks of Mount Aso. If the conditions are right you may see the buddha
Daikanbo viewpoint 大観峰 Read More »
Very sadly one of my favorite spots in Aso, the Laputa Road Viewpoint was badly damaged in the earthquakes of April 2016 and can no longer safely be visited. The photos below show the landslides and road damage that occurred. Before the earthquakes One of the top spots to see in Aso, but
Laputa Road ラピュタロード Read More »
If you are travelling from Kumamoto to Takachiho or Gokase you will pass through the beautiful Minami Aso or Southern Aso area. The charm of the countryside, stunning views, relaxing hotsprings and the simple, traditional rural way of life that can still be found in this area makes the area a popular destination for the Japanese.
Aso Paragliding How about taking to the air during your Aso trip? Paragliding is a wonderful way to enjoy the panorama of Aso’s nature and get some fresh air and adrenaline. The experience is family friendly and can be booked from Elementary School (age 6) and upwards. Though certain weight limits apply. Solo flights are possible for people
Suizenji Gardens Also known as Suizenji Jojuen Park, these beautiful gardens are situated in the east of the city, a 15 minute tram ride from the city center. Suizenji Jojuen is a very popular destination for both Japanese and international tourists, however, on a weekday it is possible to have the park mostly to yourself sharing
The title Mount Aso Volcano is a little misleading as the whole central mountain range within the Aso caldera is comprised of volcanos, fortunately only one is still active. Mt. Nakadake – Mount Aso’s active volcano Nakadake long worshipped as a powerful god, the active volcano at the center of Mount Aso is a rarity, not only does
Nakadake Mount Aso’s active volcano Read More »
