Kyushu Kumamoto Day Tour｜Kumamoto Castle・Kusasenri・Aso Nakadake Crater・Aso Boys Sightseeing Train｜Including transportation to the crater (from Fukuoka and Kumamoto)
- Explore Kumamoto Castle in Kyushu: an in-depth tour encompassing history, culture, and nature.
- Embark on a journey across the vast grasslands and experience the magnificence and freedom of the boundless plains.
- Explore the pulse of the Earth and unlock the fiery secrets of nature.
- Hop aboard the dream train specially designed for children, and you'll be instantly surrounded by 101 adorable little black stationmasters named "KURO"! It's like stepping into a cartoon world.
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 1 traveler |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.
- If the Aso Boy Train is closed for the day, it will be replaced by the Kyushu Transverse Limited Express. The travel time and arrival time may be adjusted accordingly. Please be aware of this.
The Aso Boy train will be operated by the Kyushu Transcontinental Limited Express on rest days. Rest day information can be found at: https://www.jrkyushu.co.jp/chinese/train/asoboy.html
—Important Notice—
- Each person can bring one piece of luggage for free. Any additional luggage will be charged at 2,000 yen per piece, regardless of size (please inform us in advance when registering, otherwise a fee will be charged on-site).
- Infants aged 0-2 years are free when held in arms and do not occupy a seat; children aged 3 years and above are charged the adult price. If infants aged 0-2 years require a seat, please purchase a ticket at the child or adult price.
- If there are not enough seats on the bus because you did not inform us that you will be traveling with a child aged 0-2 years who does not occupy a seat, we will refuse to let you on the bus and the fare will not be refunded.
- The tour guide will not contact the tourists in advance. On the day of the tour, tourists need to go to the meeting point on their own and report to the tour guide or staff wearing yellow vests or holding GOGODAY flags. Please understand and cooperate with each other and follow the tour guide's arrangements.
- Driver and guide service (small group of 4-13 people: driver and guide service; group of 13 or more: driver and tour guide service).
- Reference vehicle types: 5-8 seater: Toyota Alphard; 9-14 seater: Toyota Hice or equivalent; 18-22 seater: minibus; 22 seater and above: large bus. The above vehicles are for reference only, and the actual vehicle type will be adjusted according to the number of participants on the day of the tour.
Josaien: A comprehensive facility that brings together 23 shops specializing in Kumamoto's unique culture. Here you can enjoy Kumamoto's distinctive cuisine, purchase Kumamoto specialties, and Josaien-exclusive souvenirs.
Kumamoto Yuyuza: A theater steeped in history and culture (paid facility, fee not included), showcasing 300 years of history and culture of Higo (present-day Kumamoto Prefecture). Experience Kumamoto's past and present through virtual technology in "Kumamoto Past and Present Tales".
Aso Nakadake Crater: A wild masterpiece of nature. Standing on the edge of this massive crater, you will be awestruck by the endless spectacular scenery, as if you can hear the heartbeat of the earth.
Kusa Senri: Strolling through Kumamoto's lush and dreamy grasslands is like walking on a giant green carpet laid out by nature.
In autumn, the grasslands turn golden, and you can also experience the thrill of horseback riding. Mount a steed and gallop freely across the grasslands, feeling the speed of the wind and the vastness of the plains.
The Aso Volcano Museum: This is not only a treasure trove of knowledge, but also a window into the mysteries of the earth, leading you on a fantastic journey into the world of volcanoes.
Aso Road Station, a warm harbor for travelers through time. Here, the ancient and the modern intertwine to create a moving picture. Every brick and tile tells a story of the past, and every breeze carries the freshness and warmth of Mount Aso.
Boarding the ASO BOY! Aso Boy Sightseeing Train is like stepping into a world full of fantasy and childlike wonder. It will take you to explore the hidden wonders of childhood in Kumamoto, Kyushu.
Food and beverage services: In addition to the limited-edition black bento boxes sold on board (bento boxes need to be reserved in advance), there is also a black cafe (KURO CAFE) next to the children's play area. The most recommended item is the pudding sold exclusively on board.
Commemorative ride cards are also given out free of charge inside the vehicle. These cards are stamped with Xiao Hei's exclusive seal, leaving a wonderful memento of the ride. In addition, many Xiao Hei-themed merchandise items are also available for sale inside the vehicle.
Purchase Notice
【Travel conditions】
Travel origin and destination: Fukuoka and Kumamoto
Travel days: Round trip
Transportation: Bus
Bus company name: Reisei Tourism Industry Co., Ltd.
Meals: Breakfast 0 times Lunch 0 times Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum number of people in a group: 1
Team Leader: 1
【Travel planning/implementation】
Operating company name: TuYi Group Japan Co., Ltd.
Address: 722 Shuzenji, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
License Number: Shizuoka Prefectural Governor Registered Travel Agency, No. 2-633
Travel Agency Association: Regular Member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
Reminders
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Acrophobia, Epilepsy, Asthma, Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
This is a shared ride with fixed itinerary. Customers participating in this tour are requested to adhere to the time allotted at each attraction and follow the instructions of the driver/guide.
No refunds will be given for any absences or cancellations due to personal issues, lateness, or other reasons. Please take note.
If you leave the group midway through the trip, the transaction will be considered invalid, and no refund will be given. Furthermore, you will be solely responsible for any personal injury or property damage resulting from this.
Arrival times for each itinerary may vary depending on traffic conditions, weather, holidays, and crowds. We apologize for any delays or cancellations caused by the aforementioned factors or other unforeseen circumstances, and no refunds will be provided on such grounds.
For smaller groups, a small vehicle with a driver/guide will be used. Please be aware that this is a shared ride service; other guests will be traveling with you, and parking is not allowed outside of tourist attractions.
Traffic jams and other unforeseen circumstances may occur during weekends and public holidays. The driver/guide may adjust the itinerary according to the specific situation. Please be prepared before placing your order.
For guests taking the Aso Boy sightseeing train back to Kumamoto Station, if we are unable to reserve tickets for you, we will inform you no later than the day after you place your order, and you can cancel your order free of charge.
The Aso Boy Train will be operated by the Kyushu Yokodan Limited Express on rest days.
Whether access to the Aso crater is possible depends on the official real-time opening status. If access to the crater is not possible on the day of your visit, you will be allowed approximately 90 minutes to visit Kusasenri. The exact duration of your visit will be subject to the actual arrangements on the day. As the Aso crater area is currently closed (the reopening date is undetermined), the itinerary will focus on exploring Kusasenri and its surroundings, and the duration of your visit will be adjusted according to road conditions and weather conditions on the day.
FAQ
Kumamoto Castle is renowned for its unique 'musha-gaeshi' curved stone walls, designed to repel attackers, and its two main keeps, Uto Yagura and the main tenshu. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, appreciate the intricate architecture, and walk along reconstructed paths. The Honmaru Goten Palace, rebuilt after the 2016 earthquake, offers a glimpse into feudal lord residences with its opulent interiors and traditional sliding doors.
Post-restoration, Kumamoto Castle offers a profound experience of resilience and history. Visitors can witness ongoing recovery work while enjoying improved accessibility to certain areas. The castle provides educational exhibits detailing its history and the restoration process, allowing for a deeper appreciation of Japanese heritage and engineering. Strolling through the grounds offers a chance to feel centuries of accumulated history.
Kumamoto Castle suffered significant damage during the 2016 earthquakes, including collapsed walls and roof tiles. Extensive restoration efforts have been underway since. While some areas are still under reconstruction, major sections like the main keep have been meticulously repaired and are now open to the public. Visitors can observe the progress of the long-term restoration project, which demonstrates remarkable dedication to preserving this national treasure.
Reaching Kusasenri Plateau is most conveniently done via organized tours, often departing from cities like Fukuoka or Kumamoto, as these include dedicated transportation. Such tours provide comfortable bus transport directly to the plateau, offering scenic views of the volcanic landscape without the complexities of public transfers. This allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the vast grasslands and surrounding Aso area efficiently.
Mount Aso's Nakadake Crater is an active volcano, and its activity levels can fluctuate. Authorities monitor it closely, and visitor access is subject to volcanic gas levels and seismic activity. Typically, safety precautions include restricted access to certain areas, designated viewing platforms, and clear signage regarding evacuation procedures. Visitors should always adhere to local guidance and any warnings issued on-site for their safety.
The most convenient way to access the viewing areas around Aso Nakadake Crater is by organized tour, which includes transportation directly to the designated visitor zones. Public access routes, such as the Aso Panorama Line, lead to parking areas near the crater, from where shuttle buses or cable cars typically transport visitors closer to the rim, depending on current volcanic activity and safety restrictions. Guided tours ensure a smooth and informed visit.
Mount Aso experiences distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm and green, ideal for outdoor activities, while autumn brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Winters can be cold, with snow common, especially at higher elevations, which might impact road access or visibility to the crater. Spring sees thawing snow and new growth. Visitors should check local weather forecasts and volcanic activity reports before visiting, as conditions can change rapidly.
Kumamoto Castle is noteworthy culturally for its architectural innovations, such as the unique 'hidden rooms' and defensive design, which reflect advanced samurai strategies. It serves as a symbol of Kumamoto's resilience and identity, deeply intertwined with local legends and festivals. Its meticulous restoration process, involving traditional craftsmanship, further highlights its value as a living heritage site that connects past military prowess with modern preservation efforts.
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