Things to do in Aso

2026 Global 50 - Hot Springs Attractions

Kurokawa Onsen

Kurokawa Onsen is nestled in a mountain valley in the Aso region of Kumamoto Prefecture, with about 30 hot spring inns scattered among lush forests and clear streams. The town is built on the concept that the entire hot spring town is like one single inn, with each inn's open-air baths blending into the surrounding rocks, trees, and streams to create a hot spring town with a traditional atmosphere. A signature experience here is open-air bath hopping, where visitors can use a wooden bath pass to choose 3 different hot springs from participating inns to experience a variety of bathing environments. Strolling through the streets in a yukata also allows you to soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this mountain hot spring town. Walking along the stream, you can enjoy the scenery where clear water, green trees, and traditional inns intertwine. The hot springs at different inns each have their own unique characteristics in terms of water quality, bath design, and surrounding environment, allowing you to enjoy a diverse bathing experience while exploring on foot.

No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Kumamoto Prefecture

Mount Aso

Mount Aso is a famous active volcano in Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, with a diameter of more than 25 kilometers and the largest caldera in the world today. The five mountains of Aso stand in the crater, namely, Mount Neko, Mount Takayama, Mount Zhongyue, Mount Wugao, and Mount Kitsima. Among them, Mount Zhongshan still has frequent volcanic activities, and the scenery is very spectacular. There are walking trails around the Nakadake crater of Mount Aso, and when you reach the viewing platform of Nakadake crater, you will be greeted by a scene of white smoke. There is also an observatory nearby where you can take in the magnificent views of Kussenri, Mt.

No. 3 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Kumamoto Prefecture

Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine

Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine is located deep in the forests of the Aso caldera's outer rim. It is said to have been founded between the late Kamakura period and the Muromachi period. It is generally believed to have been formed by the fusion of ancient rock worship centered on the giant "Uto-iwa" rock and the Kumano faith introduced by mountain ascetics. The animated film "Into the Forest of Fireflies' Light," created by Kumamoto-born manga artist Yuki Midorikawa, used this place as a setting, bringing a large number of fans to the shrine who specifically came to visit the story's scenes. Passing through the torii gate at the entrance, a long stone-stepped approach extends upward through the forest. Nearly 100 moss-covered stone lanterns line both sides. Sunlight filters through the branches into this mossy green world, creating dappled light and shadows, making it a very popular spot for photography. After walking along the approach to the shrine building, climbing another steeper slope leads to the giant wind hole "Uto-iwa" behind the shrine, which is said to have been kicked open by the legendary Kihachi-hoshi. It measures over 10 m in height and width, and many visitors come here specifically to pray for success in exams and victory in their pursuits.

No. 4 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Kumamoto Prefecture

Kusasenri

Caoqianli is a shallow quadrangular prairie extending to the northern foot of Wumao Mountain, with a large pond and grazing horses in the center, a scene full of vitality. Here, tourists can enjoy the beauty of the four seasons. The vibrant spring, thriving summer, golden autumn, and silver-clad winter all make people marvel at its beauty. In addition, you can also take a horse-riding walk here and feel the prairie belt. Come relaxed and comfortable.

Daikanbō Lookout

Daikanbō Lookout is located in Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, and is an observation deck within the Aso volcanic area. Standing here, visitors can overlook the beautiful scenery of Mount Aso, especially the mountain view of Mount Aso, which features unique characteristics as the seasons change. In spring, the surrounding grasslands and mountains are covered with fresh green plants; summer is a great time to enjoy the fresh air and magnificent sea of clouds; while the fall and winter seasons present a more serene and clear outline of the mountains. Daikanbō Lookout is not only an ideal photo spot but also an ideal destination for hikers and nature lovers. It is one of the important viewpoints around Mount Aso, offering a panoramic view where you can overlook the terrain of the entire Aso caldera and the vast grasslands. Visitors can enjoy the natural view of the crater here and experience the unique volcanic geological features of the Aso region.

Aso Boy

The Aso Boy is a popular sightseeing train line in Kyushu, Japan, designed for families and train enthusiasts. The train runs between Kumamoto and Aso, passing through the picturesque Mount Aso area, providing passengers with a unique viewing experience. The interior design of the carriage is child-friendly, with a dedicated children's play area and reading corner, which is very popular with family tourists. The exterior of the train is mainly black and white, and the cute mascot "Aso Boy" image on the front of the train adds fun. The large windows allow passengers to enjoy the natural beauty along the way, including vast grasslands and beautiful volcanic landscapes. Special dining services are also provided on board, and tourists can taste local food and drinks. The comfortable environment and unique design of the train make it an ideal choice for exploring the natural scenery of Kyushu. Tourists can relax during the journey while enjoying a good time with family and friends.

Aso-Kuju National Park

Aso-Kuju National Park in Kyushu, Japan, is a national park renowned for its magnificent natural views and rich ecosystem. As one of the representative nature reserves in the Kyushu region, the park attracts countless tourists and nature enthusiasts to explore its unique natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities. The park is known for its volcanic terrain and also boasts a rich natural ecosystem. The grasslands, forests, and wetlands within the park provide habitats for a variety of flora and fauna. In spring, wildflowers blooming across the grasslands paint the entire park in a colorful tapestry, while the fall foliage offers visitors another visual treat. The ecological trails within the park are suitable for hiking, allowing visitors to explore the park's biodiversity while enjoying the natural beauty.Aso-Kuju National Park is also an ideal destination for outdoor activities. The park features multiple hiking trails suitable for hikers of all levels. Visitors can choose from relaxing grassland strolls or challenge themselves with more difficult mountain hiking routes. In addition, the park offers campsites and hot springs, providing a wide range of outdoor experience options.

No. 1 of Ski Resorts in Oita Prefecture

Kuju Forest Park Skiing Grounds

The Kokonoe Forest Park Ski Resort is located in Kokonoe, Oita Prefecture, Japan, in the natural embrace of the Kokonoe Mountains. The ski resort is about 1,000 meters above sea level and has abundant natural snow conditions. The 15-hectare ski resort has 3 ski slopes suitable for skiers of different levels, from beginners to experienced skiers. The ski season usually starts in December and lasts until early April of the following year, with January to February being the peak season for skiing. The ski resort provides rental equipment and skiing lessons to facilitate tourists to experience the fun of skiing. In addition, the ski resort also provides night skiing services, allowing tourists to enjoy the unique experience of skiing under the cover of night. In terms of transportation, the ski resort can be reached in about 30 minutes by car from the center of Kokonoe. With its natural environment and convenient facilities, the Kokonoe Forest Park Ski Resort provides tourists with an ideal place for winter sports and leisure.

Aso Shrine

Kusasenri Observatory