Kumamoto City

My first day trip was more convenient than I expected. The tour guide was also quite professional and enthusiastic. Highly recommended!

This family trip was perfect for us, as we didn't have a car and transportation was inconvenient. We were able to explore the beautiful Takachiho Gorge and the area around Mt. Aso. Although we couldn't go up to the Mt. Aso crater due to a search and rescue mission, we still saw the snow-covered grasslands. The tour guide was professional and attentive in explaining the sights along the way, and his friendly attitude made it a highly recommended trip.

Kumamoto Castle is beautiful. Besides admiring the exterior, there are exhibits on every floor from B1 to the 5th floor inside. The staircases are spaced out for one person at a time, and the handrails are designed to be quite safe.

No need for a tour guide or large group tours, this "semi-independent" itinerary allows the whole family to enjoy a more in-depth experience! As long as you manage taxi connections and key booking times, even families with elderly members and children can easily conquer Takachiho. 【Itinerary Sharing】(Tested on 2/10) • 09:11 | Depart from Kumamoto Station/Sakuramachi Bus Terminal (take a Kyushu Sanko bus). • 12:19 | Arrive at Takachiho Bus Center. • 12:30 | Takachiho Beef Feast: Upon arrival, a pre-booked taxi will take you to the restaurant. Delicious Takachiho beef is definitely the best start to your trip. • 14:00 | Takachiho Gorge Boat Ride (Reservation Required): Avoid the crowds and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the gorge waterfall. • 14:30 - 15:10 | Takachiho Gorge Stroll: Explore the trails and admire the magnificent columnar jointed landforms. • 15:15 | Miraculous Taxi Rescue: Two taxis were flagged down at the canyon site, taking us straight to the Amaterasu Railway (former Takachiho Station). • 15:40 | Amaterasu Railway Miniature Train (Last Train): This train was the MVP of the trip! The 105-meter-high railway bridge and the interactive bubble-blowing activity on the train were a huge hit with the kids. • 16:15 | Stroll Through the City: After the miniature train ride, we leisurely walked back to the bus station (approximately 15 minutes). • 16:57 | Return Bus: We boarded the bus back to Kumamoto on time.

With the impression of the threat of nature still fresh in our minds after visiting the damaged houses on Mount Unzen and the Gamasu Dome, we boarded the ferry. It took about 40 minutes from Shimabara Port to Kumamoto Port. The view from the sea further deepened our understanding of the greatness of the Earth.

With a clear bus stop, a comfortable mountain hot spring town, public baths and foot baths, and beautiful views of the Aso mountain area along the way, plus tofu set meals, this is a highly recommended, relaxing and enjoyable experience.

The train schedule was well-connected, and I was lucky enough to see the snow. The lunch location had a fantastic view.