Aso

Aso (阿蘇), comprised of Aso City and Aso County, is a region in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, known for its beautiful natural landscapes and volcanic activity. The region is centered around Mount Aso, a volcano with one of the largest calderas in the world, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.

One of the main attractions of Aso is its beautiful scenery, with rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque valleys. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the region through hiking, cycling, and scenic drives, with many beautiful viewpoints and hiking trails to discover.

In addition to its natural beauty, Aso is also known for its hot springs and onsen resorts. The region has several hot springs that are known for their healing properties and relaxing atmosphere, making them a popular destination for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

One of the unique features of Aso is its volcanic activity, which has shaped the landscape of the region and created several beautiful natural wonders. One of the most popular attractions is the “Aso-Kuju National Park,” which encompasses the Aso area with its five peaks and the Kuju mountain range in Oita Prefecture. The park features several beautiful craters and volcanic lakes. Visitors can enjoy the vast grasslands of Kusasenri, where they can go horseback riding or hiking. Visitors can also visit the Nakadake crater, although viewing restrictions may apply depending on volcanic activity.

Aso is also home to Aso Shrine, the head shrine of approximately 500 Aso shrines across Japan and the spiritual heart of the region. The local cuisine is another highlight, featuring dishes made with local ingredients such as Akaushi beef and Takana mustard greens.

Attractions in Aso

Mount Aso Mount Aso (阿蘇山), located in Aso Kuju National Park in Kumamoto and Oita Prefectures on the island of Kyushu in Japan, is one of the largest active volcano...

Aso Shrine Aso Shrine (阿蘇神社) is a Shinto shrine located in Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the oldest and most important shrines in Japan, with a...

Getting there

By Air

• From Aso Kumamoto Airport:
• Free shuttle bus to Higashi-Ozu Station (about 15 minutes)
• JR Hohi Main Line from Higashi-Ozu Station to Akamizu Station (about 40 minutes)
• Taxi from Akamizu Station (about 7 minutes)

By Train

• From JR Kumamoto Station:
• JR Hohi Main Line to Akamizu Station (about 1 hour 40 minutes)
• Taxi from Akamizu Station (about 7 minutes)

By Bus

• About 2 hours by Kyushu Oudan Bus from Kumamoto Station
• About 2 hours 30 minutes by direct express bus from Fukuoka (Hakata Station, Tenjin Bus Center, Fukuoka Airport)

By Car

• About 40 minutes from Kumamoto IC via National Route 57
• About 40 minutes from Aso Kumamoto Airport via Ozu Town