Kyushu Miyazaki Day Tour | Takachiho Sky Train/Takachiho Shrine, Takachiho Gorge, Aso Volcano, Kusasenri | Depart from Kumamoto
- Takachiho Sky Train: Ride a retro train across the iron bridge and overlook the canyon and mountains, the scenery seems to be floating in the sky
- Takachiho Gorge: One of Japan's three most hidden gems, the Manai Falls and emerald green river waters of the gorge create a picturesque landscape painting.
- Aso Volcano Grasslands: Wander through the world's largest volcanic crater grasslands, where you'll see endless seas of grass all year round and feel the majestic power of nature.
- Kumamoto Round-Trip Bus: Enjoy direct access to your destination without the hassle of transportation and transfers
- A fantastical route connecting scenic spots: a stunning day trip through Kyushu's intertwined natural wonders and myths
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Luggage limit | 1 piece |
| Minimum participant requirement | 4 travelers |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Family-friendly | Free for children under 2 (no seat) |
| Seasonal | Autumn Maple |
| 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.
Depart from downtown Kumamoto early this morning and board a private bus to the mythical city of Takachiho. First, experience the popular Takachiho Sky Train, a breathtaking scenic activity. This train ride, traversing abandoned railway tracks, crosses over viaducts and tunnels, giving you a sense of soaring through the air and unparalleled views.
Next, we'll head to Takachiho Gorge, a volcanic gorge formed by precipitous cliffs. Its emerald green streams and the cascading Manai Falls create a striking contrast, earning it the title of one of Japan's "Three Secrets of Japan." Whether hiking the canyon trails or gazing at the waterfalls from afar, you'll experience the wonders of nature.
In the afternoon, we walked into the majestic Aso Kusanagi-senri, the world's largest crater grassland. The vast sea of green grass and the Aso Five Mountains complement each other, creating a magnificent scene. The scenery changes with the seasons.
In the evening, we took the bus back to Kumamoto, ending our fulfilling one-day trip to the natural wonders.
Remark:
※ The train will not be running on the third Thursday of each month due to maintenance. In 2025, the following dates will apply: (September 18th / October 16th / November 20th / December 18th)
※ On days when the train is not operating due to maintenance, the route will be taken to Takachiho Shrine instead.
※ If the train ride is unavailable due to unavoidable weather or holidays, you will be offered a tour of Takachiho Shrine instead.
In Takachiho, an old railway line has been given new life: the Takachiho Sightseeing Train. The open-top carriages slowly roll out of Takachiho Station, continuing along the original Takachiho Railway, taking you on a journey between mountains and a sea of clouds.
The most breathtaking experience is crossing the Takachiho Bridge, Japan's highest railway bridge. From its 105-meter-high deck, the bridge offers breathtaking views of winding streams, terraced rice fields, and small villages. In the distance, rolling mountains stretch out, and the mountain breeze blows towards you, making you feel as if you're floating in the air.
The changing seasons bring unique scenery along the way: cherry blossoms in spring, greenery in summer, maples in autumn, and snow in winter, making every ride unique.
Takachiho Gorge is a gorge formed by the ancient eruption of Mount Aso. Its distinctive features include cliffs on both sides, the 17-meter-high Manai Falls, and the three bridges spanning the gorge, all part of its beauty.
Manai Falls, one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, is a renowned waterfall that is considered the symbol of Takachiho Gorge. According to mythology, the god Amanamura Unmi-no-Mikoto, due to a lack of water in the area, moved water to the area, which is now known as Tenmanai. It is said that the water that gushed out of the well became a waterfall.
Takachiho Gorge Autumn Foliage Season (Mid-to-Late November): Takachiho Gorge's autumn leaves typically reach their peak viewing season from mid-to-late November. Due to the canyon's elevated terrain and the significant temperature swing between day and night, the leaves change color earlier than in areas like Miyazaki City. The canyon's vibrant foliage is reflected in the water—the basalt cliffs and the cascading waters of Manai Falls are a breathtaking backdrop against the crimson and golden colors of the leaves, creating a picturesque spectacle especially in the early morning or afternoon sun.
Mount Aso, located in northeastern Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, is a renowned active volcano in Japan, boasting a caldera formation rarely seen in the world. It's also one of the few places where you can get up close and personal with an active volcano. Gazing down at the crater and witnessing the constant stream of white smoke rising from it, you'll experience the breathtaking power and magnificent beauty of nature.
Aso Mountain Kusasenri is a vast grassland located at the northern foot of Mount Eboshi. A central pond forms a rainwater pond, and cattle and horses graze on the grasslands, offering a variety of scenery throughout the year. A leisurely stroll through these 20,000 hectares of lush green grassland, watching the free-roaming cattle and sheep, and breathing in the fresh mountain air, is truly refreshing and enveloping, creating a sense of being transported to a paradise.
Interested in a relaxing horseback riding experience amidst the magnificent nature of Aso? Experienced staff guide you on a leash, making it safe for even children and first-time riders. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through nature alongside the gentle horses, feeling the cool breeze. Kusasenri's prime location allows you to experience the thrill of horseback riding through the lush green grasslands while gazing at the towering volcanic ash in the distance.
Takachiho Shrine, located in Takachiho Town, Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan, is one of the region's most iconic ancient shrines. Legend has it that it was founded over 1,900 years ago and enshrines deities such as Takachiho Ojin and Jusha Daimyojin. It is considered the head shrine that protects the Takachiho area. The shrine grounds are dotted with towering ancient trees, particularly the approximately 800-year-old Meotsugi cedar. It is said that couples circumambulating the tree three times hand in hand bring peace, success in love, and family happiness, attracting numerous visitors. The shrine is also renowned for its Takachiho Yokagura (Yokagura), a traditional Kagura dance performance with over 800 years of history that depicts the story of Amaterasu Omikami and Ama-no-Iwato from Japanese mythology. Performed annually from November to February throughout the town, the shrine is a prominent venue. Takachiho Shrine is not only a center of faith but also a must-see for visitors seeking to experience the mythological culture and natural beauty of Takachiho.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Travel origin and destination: Kumamoto and Miyazaki
Travel days: Round trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company name: Reisei Tourism Industry Co., Ltd., etc.
Meals: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 4
Team leader: 1
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating company name: TuYi Group Japan Co., Ltd.
Address: 722 Shuzenji, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
License exemption number: Shizuoka Prefecture Governor Registration Travel Industry No. 2-633
Travel Industry Association Name: Regular member of Japan Travel Industry Association
Reminders
A minimum of 4 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
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
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
This is a fixed carpooling itinerary. Please be sure to abide by the stopover time at each attraction and follow the driver's instructions.
Please note that no refunds will be given if you fail to participate or cancel the trip due to personal issues, lateness, etc.
If you leave the group during the trip, the transaction will be deemed invalid and no refund will be given. If any personal or property safety is affected as a result, the consequences will be borne by the individual.
The arrival time of each tour may vary depending on traffic conditions, weather, festivals, and crowds. If the tour is delayed or cancelled due to the aforementioned or other force majeure factors, please understand that this is not a valid reason for requesting a refund.
In case of a small group, a small car with a driver who also serves as the tour leader will be used. Please be aware that this product is a carpooling service and will be shared with other guests. Parking outside of the scenic area is not allowed.
Traffic jams and other force majeure factors may occur during weekends and national holidays. The driver and tour guide will also adjust the itinerary based on the specific situation. Please be sure to prepare your psychological expectations before placing an order.
To keep the carriage clean and comfortable, please do not eat or drink in the carriage. If you cause stains in the carriage, you will need to compensate according to local cleaning standards. Thank you for your understanding.
Please be sure to arrive at the designated pick-up location at the designated time and do not be late. Since this itinerary cannot be transferred to other flights or joined midway, if you fail to participate in the day tour due to your own reasons, you will be responsible for the corresponding losses. Thank you for your understanding
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 4 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 2 to 3 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–1 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
Takachiho Gorge is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, often described as one of Japan's most hidden gems. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery created by columnar jointing cliffs, the emerald green river, and the highlight, Manai Falls, which cascades directly into the gorge. A unique experience is renting a rowboat to navigate the tranquil waters of the gorge, allowing for an up-close view of Manai Falls and the impressive rock formations from below. The surrounding walking trails also offer various viewpoints.
To fully appreciate Takachiho Gorge, including walking the scenic trails and experiencing the popular rowboat ride, a recommended visit duration is typically 2 to 3 hours. This allows ample time to enjoy the views from different perspectives, explore the nearby Amano Iwato Shrine and Ama-no Yasukawara cave, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty without rushing.
The main highlight of Takachiho Gorge is Manai Falls, a waterfall designated as a national scenic spot, beautifully framed by lush cliffs. Visitors can take a rowboat out on the gorge's emerald green waters for a unique perspective of the falls and the volcanic rock formations. Walking paths along the gorge's rim offer panoramic views. Additionally, nearby Takachiho Shrine and Ama-no Yasukawara cave provide cultural and mythological insights, adding depth to the natural splendor.
Riding the Takachiho Sky Train offers a unique and scenic perspective of the surrounding canyon and mountains. Passengers board a retro train that slowly crosses an iron bridge, providing breathtaking panoramic views that make it feel as if you're floating above the landscape. It's a charming ride that combines nostalgia with stunning natural vistas, perfect for photography and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of rural Kyushu.
The Aso Volcano Grasslands, specifically Kusasenri, offer vast, undulating expanses of green fields set against the backdrop of Mount Aso's peaks. Visitors can stroll across these expansive pastures, often dotted with grazing horses, and enjoy spectacular views of the world's largest volcanic caldera. A large crater lake sometimes forms in the center, reflecting the sky. There are also opportunities for light hikes and simply appreciating the majestic scale of nature.
Yes, Takachiho Gorge is deeply intertwined with Japanese mythology and is considered a sacred place. It's linked to the legend of Amaterasu, the sun goddess, who hid in the Ama-no Iwato cave, prompting other deities to gather and entice her out. Visitors can explore Takachiho Shrine, an important site for ancient Shinto rituals, and visit the Ama-no Yasukawara cave, believed to be where the gods convened. These sites offer a rich cultural dimension to the natural beauty.
Opting for a round-trip bus from Kumamoto greatly simplifies travel by providing direct transportation to multiple dispersed attractions like Takachiho Gorge, Takachiho Sky Train, and Aso Volcano Grasslands. This eliminates the complexities of navigating public transport schedules, making transfers, or driving on unfamiliar roads. Travelers can relax and enjoy the scenery, saving time and hassle, especially when visiting areas that can be challenging to access independently.
This day tour beautifully connects some of Kyushu's most captivating natural wonders and mythical sites. You'll encounter the dramatic cliffs and waterfalls of Takachiho Gorge, considered a place of divine origin in Japanese mythology. The journey also includes the panoramic landscapes of Aso Volcano Grasslands, showcasing the immense scale of the world's largest volcanic caldera, and the unique aerial views from the Takachiho Sky Train, blending natural beauty with a sense of wonder.
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