Voyage Along Japan's Most Active Volcano Offers Stunning Sights
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Japan's southern island province, Kyushu, where the journey takes you through a mix of pristine nature, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Your journey begins in the lively city of Fukuoka, easily accessible by train or regional flight. From here, head south to Beppu and Oita, onsen towns nestled on the Pacific Ocean side, recommended for a 2-night stay. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of these towns, and bask in their pristine natural beauty. Beppu, known as the city that produces more hot spring water than any other in Japan, offers numerous onsens for travelers to enjoy.
Next, continue towards Mount Aso, Japan's largest active volcano. The road trip itinerary takes you through forests and hills, leading you to the Inazumi Underground Caves. These limestone caves, located near the road from Oita to Mount Aso, are navigable by tour and feature stalactites, stalagmites, and fissures that extend as deep as 130 feet. After the Inazumi Underground Caves tour, the trip continues west towards Mount Aso, where the town of Aso will be your base for exploring the mountain and surrounding areas.
Within Aso Kuju National Park, there are numerous hiking trails. The Hakoishi Ridge Trail and the Mount Eboshi Loop offer superb vistas of the rolling grasslands, the oldest in Japan and part of the Aso UNESCO Global Geopark. Horseback riding through the wild prairies of Aso Kuju National Park is a popular activity.
Mount Aso's caldera, with a circumference of over 71 miles, is inhabited by humans. The mountain's crater boasts a jagged rim and billowing steam, with a turquoise blue sulfuric lake at its center. Ensure safe sulfur dioxide levels at the visitor center before exploring this natural wonder.
The journey then takes you west to Takachiho Gorge, a narrow rocky chasm lined by sheer cliffs of basalt, within a dense, pristine forest. Takachiho Gorge offers canyoning adventures, kayak expeditions, and boat tours along the Gokase River.
A short detour to Hita, a hot spring town along the Mikuma River, is a recommended stop. Hita offers historic merchant shops, longtime onsens, and shrines, including the ancient Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine with moss-covered stone lanterns and arches.
Your final destination is the pristine Sakura Falls, a must-see waterfall located a short 10-minute walk from Amagase station.
The Okyakuyan Ryokan in Aso City, a budget-friendly ryokan, offers a truly authentic Japanese experience for around $150 USD a night.
This 5-10 day journey offers a full experience of the region's natural wonders, beauty, culture, and history. Don't miss the unique attractions such as the Hells of Beppu, a collection of seven boiling springs, each with unique features, or the popular activity of exploring the geysers and mud pools in Beppu.
Embrace the spirit of adventure and embark on this unforgettable journey through Kyushu, Japan.
