Kyushu Kumamoto and Aso Volcano Castle Day Tour From Hakata

Mt. Aso Nakadake Crater

Aso Volcano, located on Kyushu Island in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, is one of the world's most active volcanoes, featuring a vast caldera with a circumference of about 120 kilometers, formed by four major eruptions between 300,000 and 90,000 years ago. The Nakadake Crater within this caldera is the most active part, known for its constantly boiling acid lake and frequent sulfurous emissions. This crater is a significant tourist attraction, with visitors often able to observe its activity from the crater rim, although access is restricted during periods of heightened volcanic activity for safety reasons. The region surrounding Aso Volcano boasts a unique landscape shaped by volcanic activity, including hot springs and fertile plains. The Aso Volcano Museum nearby offers educational exhibits about the volcano's geology and history. Given the continuous activity of Nakadake Crater, ongoing monitoring and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial for visitors.

1 Hours • Admission Ticket Included

Aso Mountain Kusasenri is a picturesque highland area located on Mount Aso, Japan's largest active volcano in Kumamoto Prefecture. Kusasenri features expansive grassy plains that stretch over an ancient volcanic crater, creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the surrounding peaks. This scenic area is popular for its panoramic views, walking trails, and the serene Kusasenri Pond, which reflects the dramatic landscape. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding and seasonal wildflower displays, making it a favorite spot for both relaxation and outdoor activities. With its unique volcanic geology and natural beauty, Kusasenri offers a memorable experience of Mount Aso's dynamic environment.

50 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Aso

Mount Aso is home to one of the world's largest large calderas and the majestic Mt. Wairin. There is a road stop at Kukino, Minami Aso Village, at its southern foot. The facility mainly houses souvenir shops selling agricultural and livestock products, and there is always a constant flow of customers.

20 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Suizenji Jojuen Garden

Suizenji Jojuen Garden, located in Kumamoto, Japan, is a traditional Japanese garden established in 1636 by the Hosokawa clan. Renowned for its tsukiyama design, it features miniature landscapes replicating famous Japanese scenery, including a miniature Mount Fuji and Lake Biwa. The garden offers a walking path around a central pond, with meticulously maintained lawns, seasonal plantings, and historical structures such as a shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu and traditional teahouses for tea ceremonies. Reflecting the aesthetics of the Edo period, Suizenji Jojuen Garden is a significant cultural and historical site, providing a peaceful retreat and a popular destination for visitors throughout the year.

1 Hours • Admission Ticket Included

Suizenji Jojuen Garden

Dysprosium horses and cultivated flowers: Along the eastern end of the garden is a straight avenue paved with gravel. Since the completion of Izumi Shrine in 1878, the "Yababusa" (a contest of shooting arrows on galloping horseback) held on this road has been the main attraction of the shrine. Part of the Spring Festival and Autumn Festival. The Hosokawa family are representatives of Japan's "Takeda-ryu" ryu dysprosium horse. Along this avenue, you can see five of the "Higo Six Flowers": Higo camellia, Higo camellia, Higo peony, Higo chrysanthemum and Higo irises. The Noh Theater illuminated by pine trees: There are four cherry blossom trees at the southern end of the garden, leading to the Noh stage. Noh theater, which began in the 14th century, is a model of Japanese classical art that integrates dance, music and drama. It is also one of the oldest existing singing and dancing performing art forms in the world.

1 Hours • Admission Ticket Included

Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto Castle, located in Kumamoto, Japan, is one of the most iconic and historically significant castles in the country. Originally constructed in 1607 by the feudal lord Kato Kiyomasa, the castle is renowned for its imposing size, impressive fortifications, and ingenious defensive design, including steep walls and wooden overhangs to prevent scaling. The castle complex features a main keep, several turrets, and expansive grounds with cherry trees, making it a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in the spring. Despite suffering significant damage during the 2016 earthquakes, restoration efforts are ongoing, and Kumamoto Castle remains a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage, attracting numerous visitors eager to explore its rich history and architectural grandeur.

1 Hours 10 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included