2-Day Kyushu, Japan Tour | Kumamoto Castle, Mount Aso, Kusasenri, Takachiho Gorge, and Amano Iwato Shrine Classic Itinerary | Departs from Fukuoka | No Accommodation
- Explore Kyushu's hidden gems on this two-day itinerary, immersing you in the charm of nature and history.
- Visit Kumamoto Castle and Mount Aso, and admire the magnificent volcanic scenery in Kusasenri
- Stroll through Takachiho Gorge and Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine and experience the atmosphere of myths and legends
- Book your two-day Kyushu tour on KKday now and join a hassle-free tour from Fukuoka
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Luggage limit | 1 piece |
| Minimum participant requirement | 1 traveler |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Family-friendly | Free for children under 2 (no seat) |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Temples & shrines |
| 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.
- Each person can bring one piece of luggage for free, with no size limit. Please note this when registering (if the carriage is crowded due to failure to make this note, the driver has the right to refuse you boarding and the fee will not be refunded). If the number of pieces of luggage exceeds the limit, a fee of 2,000 yen per piece will be required.
- Reference vehicle types: 5-8 seater: Toyota Alphard or similar; 9-14 seater: Toyota HAICE or similar; 18-22 seater: minibus; 22 seater and above: large bus. The above vehicles are for reference only and will be adjusted according to the number of people in the group on that day.
- Driver-guide service (small groups of 1-13 people (the driver also provides tour guidance); bus groups of 14-45 people, the actual number of people in the group will be adjusted based on the departure date).
- Due to unpredictable factors such as traffic conditions, weather, holidays, and crowds, the arrival time of each tour is subject to change. Japanese law stipulates that drivers' maximum working hours are 10 hours. To ensure driver safety and smooth driving, we may adjust the itinerary based on actual circumstances, including shortening the time spent at attractions, adjusting the order of attractions, or even eliminating certain attractions. We sincerely hope that our passengers will understand and support these adjustments made while ensuring safety. In the event of these or other force majeure factors, we deeply regret any inconvenience caused. Please understand that we cannot provide refunds. This decision is made out of a sense of responsibility for the safety of our drivers and passengers, and to ensure the smooth operation of the entire tour. We always strive to provide you with the best travel experience, but in some cases, we need to flexibly adjust the itinerary based on actual circumstances. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan's three most famous castles. Built in 1607 by Kato Kiyomasa, it is known for its sturdy stone walls, defensive structures, and magnificent castle tower, and is an important historical and cultural symbol of Kumamoto.
Mount Aso is one of the world's largest active volcanoes, boasting a wide crater and beautiful grassland landscape. It is a representative natural attraction in Kumamoto Prefecture, offering spectacular scenery.
Kusasenri is a vast volcanic grassland next to Mount Aso, with expansive and beautiful scenery, lush green grass, and herds of cattle and horses, making it an excellent spot to experience the natural charm of Aso.
Aso Roadside Station is located next to Aso Station on National Route 57, offering panoramic views of the Aso Five Peaks. It features information desks, specialty shops, and restaurants, making it a great place to relax and shop.
Kamishimi Kumanozha Shrine is located in Takamori-cho, Kumamoto. Its ancient wooden approach is mysterious and tranquil. It is famous as a filming location for the anime "Natsume's Book of Friends" and is a secluded shrine full of spiritual energy.
Ten'iwado Shrine is located in the Takachiho area and enshrines the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami. It has two shrines, the West Main Shrine and the East Main Shrine, and the sacred body is located in the cave where the goddess is said to have hidden in mythology. The atmosphere is solemn and dignified, and the shrine has a long history of worship.
Tianan River was originally the place where eight million gods gathered in mythology to discuss inviting Amaterasu Omikami to emerge from her cave. The cave is surrounded by piles of wishing stones stacked by believers, full of mysterious spiritual energy, and is a famous energy sanctuary in Takachiho.
Takachiho Gorge is a famous gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture, where steep cliffs and waterfalls intertwine, and the stream is as clear as a mirror. You can take a boat trip to visit Manai Falls and experience the magnificence and tranquility of nature.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Travel origin and destination: Fukuoka, Miyazaki, and Kumamoto
Travel duration: 2 days
Transportation: Bus
Bus company name: SANWA BUS 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
Tour guide: 0
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating company name: Shuzenji Takitei Co., Ltd.
Address: Shuzenji 722, Ii City, Shizuoka Prefecture
License exemption number: Shizuoka Prefecture Governor Registration Tourism No. 2-723
Reminders
A minimum of 1 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 case of delays caused by traffic, weather, or other force majeure factors resulting in the cancellation of some itinerary attractions, please contact customer service. We will arrange a partial refund for you
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, Asthma, Epilepsy, 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.
This is a 2-day tour (excluding accommodation). The tour guide and bus driver information may differ, so please check your email the day before departure to confirm.
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.
No refunds will be given for any absences or cancellations due to personal issues, lateness, or other reasons. Please take note.
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.
When there are fewer passengers, a small vehicle with a driver/guide providing simple explanations will be used. Please be aware that this is a shared ride service, meaning you will be traveling with other guests. Stops are not allowed outside of designated tourist attractions.
The transportation and tourist attractions in this itinerary will be kept as faithful as possible to the original plan. However, in the event of special circumstances such as traffic congestion, inclement weather, large tourist crowds, or other force majeure events, the company reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary to ensure the safety of travelers and the smoothness of the trip.
According to Japanese law, the maximum working hours for drivers are 10 hours. To ensure driver safety and the stability of the itinerary, adjustments may be made based on actual circumstances, including reducing sightseeing time at attractions or canceling certain attractions. We apologize for any inconvenience. Refunds cannot be issued without prior notice. We sincerely hope for your understanding and support.
FAQ
Kumamoto Castle is renowned for its distinctive architectural elements, including the impressive curved stone walls, known as musha-gaeshi, designed to repel attackers. Its intricate defense system features multiple turrets, underground passages, and strategically placed traps. Historically, it was built by Kato Kiyomasa and played a pivotal role during the Satsuma Rebellion, demonstrating its formidable strength as an impregnable fortress.
Visitors to Kumamoto Castle can explore its vast grounds, admire the majestic main keep and smaller keeps, and walk along designated pathways offering views of the castle's impressive scale. While some areas are still undergoing restoration, key reconstructed sections provide insight into its feudal past. Engaging exhibits inside the castle complex detail its history, architecture, and the ongoing efforts to preserve this national treasure.
Following the 2016 earthquakes, Kumamoto Castle has undergone extensive restoration. The main keep has reopened to the public, allowing visitors to enter and explore. While some sections of the castle walls and buildings are still under reconstruction, designated viewing routes provide excellent vantage points to observe the restoration progress and appreciate the castle's resilience. The grounds offer ample space for walking and appreciating its historical context.
Mount Aso is famous for having one of the world's largest volcanic calderas, offering breathtaking panoramic views. At Kusasenri, a vast, idyllic grassland within the caldera, visitors can stroll amidst grazing horses and enjoy stunning vistas of the active Nakadake crater. Popular activities include walking, photography, and simply taking in the serene yet powerful volcanic scenery that changes beautifully with the seasons.
Takachiho Gorge is celebrated for its sheer cliffs of columnar basalt, formed by volcanic activity, and the captivating Manai Waterfall that cascades into the river. A highly recommended activity is renting a rowboat to navigate the gorge, allowing for an up-close view of the waterfall and the unique rock formations. Alternatively, visitors can enjoy a scenic walk along the paved path overlooking the gorge from above.
Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine is renowned for its deeply mystical atmosphere, characterized by a long, moss-covered stone staircase winding through a dense, tranquil forest, lined with countless stone lanterns. This ethereal setting creates an otherworldly feel. It has gained significant popularity among anime fans for being a filming location that inspired scenes in beloved Japanese animations like "Hotarubi no Mori e" and "Natsume's Book of Friends."
Amano Iwato Shrine holds profound mythological significance as it is believed to be the site of the cave where the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami hid, plunging the world into darkness. The shrine complex is divided into two parts, one built over the cave and another commemorating the spot where the gods gathered. Visiting the nearby Amayasu River, where these deities convened, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the birthplace of Japanese mythology and experience its spiritual heritage.
Kusasenri offers distinct beauty throughout the year, making it enjoyable in any season for admiring its volcanic scenery. Spring and summer showcase lush green grasslands and often clear skies, perfect for viewing the caldera. Autumn brings vibrant hues to the surrounding foliage, creating a dramatic contrast. In winter, the landscape transforms into a serene, snow-covered expanse, offering a unique, stark beauty of the volcanic terrain.
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