2024 Minamiaso Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

I thought Tokyo was beautiful until I came to Kyushu~

Traveling to Japan Most people tend to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, Hokkaido But this time I chose Kyushu, Japan Kumamoto & Kagoshima This place is the setting for many animes Rustic countryside, I predict it will be popular this year - My 5-day, 4-night itinerary DAY1: Shanghai-Fukuoka-Take the Shinkansen to Kumamoto DAY2: Kumamoto Castle-A-train-Maejima Tour Day3: Minami Aso Railway Sightseeing Train-Kusasenri-Aso Nakadake Crater-Irozu View Kumano Shrine-Aso Shrine Day4: Sakurajima-Ikeda Lake-Ibusuki Tamatebako Train-Shiroyama Park Day5: Sengan-en-Tsurumaru Castle Ruins Reimei Pavilion-Shinkansen to Fukuoka-Shanghai - 📷【About the Check-in Spots】 1️⃣Kumamoto City Kumamoto Castle Kumamon is everywhere here, Kumamon Park, Kumamoto Station, Maejima are all Kumamon elements, Kumamoto Castle and the retro tram are iconic elements. - 2️⃣A train A jazz-style scenic train with sea views, from JR Kumamoto Station to JR Misumi Station, you can drink Highball while enjoying the sea view. - 3️⃣Minami Aso Railway Sightseeing Train Minami Aso Railway (track train) The same model as the One Piece 【Sunny Train】, the route is full of small forest scenery. - 4️⃣Irozu View Kumano Shrine The filming location of 'Hotarubi no Mori e', covered with moss, it's even more of a green wonderland in summer. - 5️⃣Kusasenri - Aso Nakadake Crater In summer, it's a green grassland, in February and March it's the season of 🔥grass, so it's black, but it has its own charm. - 6️⃣Sakurajima You take a boat from Kagoshima, a beautiful volcanic island with crystal blue waters, where you can soak in a hot spring while facing the sea view. - 7️⃣Ibusuki Tamatebako Train Ibusuki Station Retro train cars, viewing Sakurajima volcano and sea views, very healing - 8️⃣Ikeda Lake A beautiful lake, full of flowers in spring, where you can soak in hot springs♨️. - 9️⃣Shiroyama Park An excellent viewing platform in Kagoshima, right in the city center, overlooking the city and Sakurajima volcano. - 1️⃣0️⃣Sengan-en A direct cultural heritage, the villa and garden of the Satsuma Domain's lord Shimazu family, one of the more famous gardens in Kyushu. -

Aso: Early Morning Mist

We stayed overnight at the Aso Plateau and left the hotel at 5 AM to head to Kusasenrigahama. As the darkness gradually gave way to light, the sight of the mist slowly drifting away was incredibly beautiful. When the sun illuminated the mist, the soft light filling the surroundings created such a magnificent scene that it felt almost wasteful to press the camera shutter. Walking into the mist felt like stepping into the clouds, which was also quite fascinating. ▶︎Note We accessed Kusasenrigahama via the route heading north from the Minami Aso Panorama Line. There were many wild animals like raccoons and deer, so please be very careful when driving!

"Rejuvenation in Nature: A Visit to Shirakawa Fountain Head"

#hotsprings #100waysoftravel Shirakawa Fountain Head is a hidden gem for hot spring enthusiasts in Japan. Nestled in a serene environment, this natural onsen offers a unique experience with its milky blue waters, rich in minerals. The relaxing atmosphere is enhanced by the surrounding nature, making it an ideal spot to unwind. The soothing thermal baths provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Visitors can enjoy both indoor and outdoor options, each offering a different perspective of the beautiful landscape. Overall, Shirakawa Fountain Head is a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation.

Kusasenri: A Magnificent Grassland in the Aso Volcano Region, a Paradise for Seasonal Scenery, Wildlife, and Outdoor Activities

The Aso Volcano, located on the border of Kumamoto and Oita Prefectures in Japan, is one of the largest active volcanoes in Japan and also one of the largest calderas in the world. Surrounding the Aso Volcano is a vast grassland known as Kusasenri, celebrated as one of the most beautiful plateaus in Japan. Kusasenri is renowned for its stunning scenery, rich ecology, and diverse outdoor activities, attracting numerous visitors. The name Kusasenri originates from its expansive grassland landscape, stretching far and wide like an endless green ocean. In spring, the grassland is adorned with various wildflowers such as mountain cherry blossoms, wild lilies, and alpine peonies, bringing vibrant colors to the entire area. During summer, the grass becomes even more lush, creating a refreshing sea of green. In autumn, the grassland transforms into shades of golden yellow and orange, contrasting beautifully with the azure sky. In winter, the grassland is covered in snow, turning into a picturesque white wonderland. Kusasenri not only boasts beautiful scenery but also a rich ecosystem. It is a haven for wildlife, with many wild animals inhabiting the vast grassland, including wild horses, deer, hares, and various bird species. Visitors can observe and photograph wildlife here, experiencing the wonders of nature and the vitality of life. In addition to enjoying the natural beauty and observing wildlife, Kusasenri offers a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can go hiking, camping, horseback riding, and bird watching. There are many designated trails and viewpoints, allowing visitors to appreciate the scenery from different angles. Additionally, Kusasenri has several rest areas and observation decks, providing convenient facilities and services. The Aso Volcano region, where Kusasenri is located, also features other natural and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore Mount Aso, an active volcano and one of Japan's national parks. Nearby hot spring areas such as Kurokawa Onsen and Minamioguni Onsen offer relaxation and the joy of soaking in hot springs. Furthermore, there are historical shrines and temples like Aso Shrine and Kuju Mountain Temple, where visitors can experience Japan's traditional culture and religious atmosphere. In summary, Kusasenri is a magnificent grassland in the Aso Volcano region, known for its beautiful scenery, rich ecology, and diverse outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the changing landscapes of the four seasons, observe wildlife, and participate in various outdoor activities. Kusasenri is a precious natural treasure of Japan and a refreshing travel destination.

Experience the Free Horse Interaction at Kusasenrigahama

One of Aso's most famous tourist spots. Located at an altitude of approximately 1,100 meters, horses are released to graze before 9:30 AM and after 6:00 PM! To the east, you can see the smoking Aso Nakadake, and right in front of you, there's a large pond and grassland, offering a perfect location. The changing scenery with each season is also a charm!!! In the parking area in front of Kusasenri, there's the Aso Volcano Museum, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops 😊 I visited during the summer, so I was surrounded by greenery, which was very refreshing and pleasant ✨

The Aconcagua Resorts

#japantrip Luxury hotel with great mountain view from the room. Free bar when arrived make a refreshening and relaxing experiences. Dinner was very good with attentive staffs providing warm hospitality, particularly Mr.Suan who give us excellent services. Too bad we can spend only a night there. Will definitely come back again.There are two fire places which add a lot to make cozy atmosphere,

Aso Dreamland: Dancing with Nature Under the Stars.

Aso Farm Park It might just replace Tomamu as Asia's premier family vacation destination. Nestled within the embrace of the Kuju National Park, it is a unique global natural health theme park. At an altitude of 550 meters amidst the great nature of Aso, people can feel the revival of the spirit and the vitality of life. There are entertainment facilities designed for both adults and children, a super-sized farm park waiting for you to explore. The maze amusement park is full of fun, and in the zoo, you can hand-feed otters and flamingos. Various knowledge classes are here to nurture the physical and mental development of children. Stay in those dreamy fairy-tale manju houses, the dome wooden houses of Aso Farm, inspired by Japanese dango. As night falls, more than five million night lights illuminate the night sky of Aso. Under the clear starry night sky, the skylight on the roof allows you to comfortably enjoy this romantic nightscape from inside the house. All of this is both lively and romantic. At Aso Farm, every corner exudes a fairy-tale-like magic, making even adults want to scream to express their inner joy. The night light show and the stars in the sky complement each other. Here, we do not just walk on this land, we dance with nature under the stars.

Discovering Cherry Blossom

#cherryblossom2024 Issinghe Park in Minamiaso village in Kumamoto Prefecture is one of the most popular places to admire cherry blossoms. If you come to Kyushu in March, be sure to try to see the bloom. I recommend Try milk pudding with cherry blossoms Rate the three-colored sweet sakura-dango rice balls Order a plate of bright tirasi sushi Buy inari sushi in tofu bags How to get The trip from Kumamoto city center takes about an hour. We recommend using the bus — there is free parking in the park, but there are a lot of cars on the roads during the cherry blossom season. The nearest bus stop is Nakamatsu-ekimae. It takes 15 minutes to walk from the station to the park. One of the best places for hanami The famous sakura grows in Issing Park with a height of more than 14 meters, which is four hundred years old. Spring is the best time to travel to Japan, because cherry blossoms are a reason for joy and celebration throughout the country. You can come to the park with your family, friends or alone and have a great time admiring the sakura and tasting delicious local dishes.

The Aconcagua Resorts

#2024wish Since it has only recently opened, the facilities are clean and new, so I was able to relax while waiting at the front desk.There is also tea and mineral water in the bathroom, and you will be very satisfied with the hospitality you can expect from a hotel. The price is higher than other family baths, but it's worth it. As you can see in the photo, on a clear day the view is truly breathtaking. I think it's best to plan ahead and make reservations, as it seems to be crowded. It was such a wonderful place that I would like to come again and introduce it to my friends!overall it awesome

The Aconcagua Resorts

#hotelreview I chose this hotel after looking at the photos and reviews. But the people who gave it 5 stars seem to be people who go to Japanese hot springs. The hotel staff felt unprofessional and the experience was average.The room was clean but not very spacious. The biggest problem is that it's too close to the road. Very noisyThe hot spring is natural but the water temperature is not high enough.overall just nice

Great spot with a view of Kusasenri (草千里）

Douce Nucca is a great spot to relax and enjoy some tasty food with a view of Kusasenri. The beef Hamburg made with signature Japanese beef was juicy and flavorful. The crispy fries and fried chicken were a perfect accompaniment to the meal. It's always nice to find a quiet and relaxing spot during a day tour, and Douce Nucca seems to fit the bill perfectly.

Kyushu, Japan | Vast grasslands stretching for miles 🐎 View of Mount Aso 🌋

One must visit Grass Thousand Miles when coming to Aso, but make sure to choose a good weather day. The scenery is truly spectacular, walking on the vast grassland and watching the horses leisurely grazing. On my first day, the weather was very bad, but luckily I went again on the second day when it was sunny. It was really beautiful, and I look forward to going again in the summer when everything is covered in green. You can also see the smoking Aso volcano, which is a rare sight to see a smoking volcano up close. When the weather is good, you can even take a helicopter ride around the Aso volcano. Unfortunately, the helicopter was not available when I went, but I will definitely try it next time. #JapanAttractions #JapanTravel #Japan #KyushuAttractions #OverseasTravel #Travel #ResidentWriter

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