Kyushu Kumamoto Route B: Minami-Aso Railway, Mt. Aso Kusasenri & Kurokawa Onsen Day Tour from Fukuoka
$43.36
Per Person
What To Expect
Overview
- Ride the Minami Aso Railway through the foothills of Mount Aso, enjoying scenic valleys, pastoral fields, and rustic countryside along the way.
- Mount Aso, home to the world's largest caldera.
- Kurokawa Onsen: A hot spring town with dreamy scenery and a wealth of culinary delights.
- Experience the pastoral charm and sweeping views of the vast grasslands.
Itinerary
Fukuoka – Minami Aso Railway – Mt. Aso & Kusasenri – Aso Volcano Museum – Horseback Riding at Kusasenri – Kurokawa Onsen – Return
09:00 4-23 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan
Fukuoka
Aso Kusasenri
Aso Volcano Museum
Kurokawa Onsen
Kumamoto
09:00 Fukuoka
Meet your driver-guide at the designated pickup point in Fukuoka. Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes before departure; the group will leave on time and cannot wait for late arrivals. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation, and ask that everyone follow the driver-guide’s arrangements. Let’s begin today’s scenic journey!
11:30 Kumamoto
Minami Aso Railway, Kumamoto (approx. 40 minutes; fare not included, self-paid JPY 550–2,000)
Board the charming Minami Aso Railway from Tateno Station to Takamori Station, and enjoy a leisurely ride along the foothills of Mount Aso. This distinctive rail journey is filled with natural beauty and rural charm. As the train winds through mountains and farmland, the scenery outside the window changes with every mile. In the distance, you can admire the majestic Aso Five Peaks, while closer views reveal layered forested hills, open fields, and clear streams. The grand mountain scenery and tranquil countryside of Minami Aso accompany you throughout the ride. Each season brings a different mood: fresh greenery in spring, lush landscapes in summer, golden and red foliage in autumn, and crisp, serene mountain views in winter. As the train slowly approaches Minami Aso, it feels like leaving the city behind and entering a peaceful natural retreat. This is not just a train ride, but a sightseeing journey unfolding along the mountains and waters of Aso. Depending on railway operations on the day, you may have the chance to ride the limited-time One Piece themed train or the special Torokko sightseeing train, adding extra fun to the Minami Aso experience.
Fares (not included, self-paid):
Regular train: JPY 550 per person
Seats are limited; during busy periods, passengers may need to travel standing. Thank you for your understanding.
One Piece themed train: JPY 550–1,000 per person
Special limited sightseeing train (Torokko Train): JPY 2,000 per person
The One Piece train and Torokko Train are special limited services and do not operate daily. Train type, operating dates, schedules, and boarding arrangements are subject to Minami Aso Railway’s operations on the day. If the train is changed or suspended due to railway adjustments, weather, or other force majeure, please follow the railway company’s arrangements. The order of today’s itinerary may be adjusted according to the train schedule.
12:50 Kumamoto
Mount Aso & Kusasenri, Kumamoto (approx. 80–90 minutes; free time, including self-arranged lunch; other admission fees are self-paid. If the crater is restricted, the itinerary will be adjusted according to on-site conditions.)
Mount Aso
Located in northeastern Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, Mount Aso is one of Japan’s most famous active volcanoes, featuring a rare caldera landscape. It is also one of the few places where visitors can observe an active volcano up close. From the viewing area, you can look down toward the crater and watch plumes of white smoke rising continuously, giving you a powerful sense of nature’s force and spectacular beauty.
Kusasenri, Mount Aso
Kusasenri is a vast grassland on the northern foothills of Eboshidake. In the center of the grassland lies a small pond formed by rainwater, and horses and cattle graze freely across the fields. The scenery changes throughout the year. Walking across this expansive green plain, watching the animals roam at ease, and breathing the fresh mountain air creates a refreshing and almost dreamlike experience.
Aso Volcano Museum (admission JPY 1,100; self-paid)
Facing the wide expanse of Kusasenri-ga-hama, the Aso Volcano Museum focuses on Mount Aso’s terrain, geology, flora, and fauna. It holds a rich collection of materials that help visitors understand the history of Mount Aso. Through large-scale three-dimensional models, you can experience how the Aso caldera was formed, while exhibits also introduce other volcanoes in Japan and around the world. The museum displays live footage from the Nakadake crater, transmitted through an advanced camera system.
Kusasenri Horse Riding Experience (self-paid; prices for reference only, subject to on-site rates)
Would you like to enjoy a relaxed horseback ride in Aso’s magnificent natural setting? Experienced staff lead the horses by rope, so even children and first-time riders can feel at ease. Enjoy a gentle breeze and a peaceful walk alongside friendly horses. Kusasenri’s location allows you to appreciate nature’s grandeur, gaze at the rising volcanic smoke, and experience the joy of riding across the green grassland.
15:20 Kumamoto
Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto – A Hot Spring Village Hidden in a Secluded Valley (approx. 90 minutes; free time; onsen fees are self-paid)
Nestled deep in the mountains of Kumamoto, Kurokawa Onsen is embraced by peaks and forests, making it one of Kyushu’s most representative hot spring destinations. The hot spring town stretches naturally along the valley, with about 30 ryokans scattered among the mountains and woods. Traditional wooden buildings, murmuring streams, lush greenery, and rising onsen steam blend into a unique scene, like stepping into a tranquil mountain painting.
The greatest charm of Kurokawa Onsen lies in its open-air baths that blend seamlessly with nature. Each ryokan designs its baths according to the valley terrain, allowing guests to soak while enjoying the surrounding forested hills and ravines, and relax in the embrace of nature. Kurokawa Onsen has also received high recognition in Japanese hot spring rankings, and its well-preserved traditional streetscape and distinctive onsen culture have made it a popular destination for visitors to Kyushu.
Retro Hot Spring Town | Stroll Through the Valley and Enjoy Local Charm
Even without taking a bath, Kurokawa Onsen is perfect for a leisurely walk. There are no large commercial facilities or noisy urban atmosphere; instead, you will find Japanese-style wooden inns, stone paths, streams, and shady greenery. Walking through the area, you can feel the simple and peaceful atmosphere of a mountain hot spring village. Along the hot spring street, there are souvenir shops, cafs, dessert shops, and specialty restaurants, where you can taste sweets and local dishes made with Aso milk, local ingredients, and seasonal mountain vegetables. Sitting down for a coffee at a small shop, or buying a specialty dessert to enjoy while strolling, are both wonderful ways to experience the relaxed pace of Kurokawa Onsen.
Onsen Experience | Healing Time Among Forests and Valleys
Kurokawa Onsen is rich in natural hot spring resources, with different springs offering distinct water qualities and mineral compositions. Guests may choose different ryokans according to their preferences to experience open-air baths, and enjoy being surrounded by forests, valleys, and natural scenery.
Large communal bath: approx. JPY 600–800 per person
Private bath: approx. JPY 2,500–3,500 per group for 40–60 minutes
Actual bathing fees and operating hours may vary by facility. Please refer to on-site information on the day.
Enjoying Kurokawa Without Soaking in an Onsen
If you do not wish to take a full bath, you can visit the foot baths around the hot spring town and rest for a while. Enjoy the rustic streetscape and natural scenery beside the stream, stone bridges, or ryokans. You may also walk along mountain paths, visit cafs and dessert shops, and try Aso milk sweets, enjoying a relaxed afternoon away from the city.
Special Note: After the itinerary arrives at Kurokawa Onsen, guests staying overnight in Kurokawa may end the group tour here and proceed independently to their accommodation. Please clearly note any departure from the group and the number of luggage pieces.
16:50 Return
Today’s tour concludes. Begin the return journey.
18:50 Fukuoka
Lawson, Oriental Hotel Fukuoka (in front of Hakata Station Chikushi Exit)
4-23 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan
- Meals not included
- Hotels not included
- 18:50 Return to the pick-up point, the return time is for reference only.
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Things to Know
- Warning: People with the following respiratory diseases (asthma patients, bronchial disease patients, heart disease patients) are not suitable for this tour. They are prohibited from entering Aso Volcano at any time. The toxic gas of the volcano may cause the disease to break out and may even lead to death in severe cases.
- The above itinerary time may be adjusted according to weather, road conditions and other reasons. Please understand.
- Train tickets will be collected by the tour guide for group purchase. Those who prefer not to take the train can ride the tour bus instead.
- Due to the operations of the Minami Aso Railway, the order of sightseeing may be adjusted based on the train schedule for the day. Therefore, mid-tour departure is not recommended, as it may affect the subsequent itinerary.
Packages
Bus Tour
Adult
$43.36Child
$0
Pick Up/Drop Off Information
Pick Up
| Location | Time | Address |
| LAWSON Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Store Please arrive 10 minutes prior to the scheduled time. | 09:00 | 4-23 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan |
Drop Off
| Location | Time | Address |
| LAWSON Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Store The departure time is for reference only and is subject to the actual schedule of the day. | 18:50 | 4-23 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan |
| Kurokawa Onsen Guests staying at Kurokawa Onsen may conclude the group tour here and independently proceed to their accommodation. Please be sure to indicate your early departure and the number of luggage pieces in the remarks. | Around 15:20 |
Things to Know
Included/Exclude
- Vehicle service fees listed in the itinerary
- Vehicle fuel costs, tolls, and highway tolls
- Vehicle service time: within 10 hours (Japanese law)
- Guide-driver service fee (up to 10 passengers: Toyota Hiace with guide-driver; up to 17 passengers: Toyota Coaster; 18+ passengers: minibus or coach; vehicle type subject to adjustment based on the actual number of participants on the day)
- Reference vehicles: 9–14 seats – Toyota Hiace or similar; 18–22 seats – minibus; 22+ seats – coach. The above vehicles are for reference only and are subject to adjustment based on the actual number of passengers on the day of departure.
- Children under 3 years old: free when held on lap (no seat); children 3 years and older: same rate as adults.
- Vehicle service fees listed in the itinerary
- Vehicle fuel costs, tolls, and highway tolls
- Vehicle service time: within 10 hours (Japanese law)
- Driver service fee (exquisite small group of 1-13 people; bus group of 14-45 people, actual will be adjusted according to the number of people in the group on that day)
- Reference model:5-8Car: ToyotaAlphardor equivalent;9-14Car: ToyotaHAICEor equivalent;18-22Vehicle: minibus;twenty twoCars and above: large buses. The above vehicles are for reference only. The actual number will be adjusted according to the number of people traveling on the day.
- Children under 3 years old are free of charge without occupying a seat. Please inform us in advance when registering; children over 3 years old are treated as adults.
- [Minami Aso Railway] – Fare not included, ranging from 550 to 2,000 JPY.
- [Aso Volcano Museum]: The admission fee needs to be paid by yourself. The ticket price is 1,100 Japanese yen.
- [Kusasenri Horseback Riding Experience]: The cost needs to be borne by yourself. Route A takes about 5 minutes and costs 1,500 Japanese yen; Route B takes about 20 minutes and costs 4,000 Japanese yen; Route C takes about 25 minutes and costs 5,000 Japanese yen.
- [Onsen Experience] Large public bath: approx. 600–800 JPY per person; Private bath: approx. 2,500–3,500 JPY per group for 40–60 minutes
- Accommodation expenses, meals, local self-funded projects and other personal consumption expenses
- One-day Tour, it is not recommended to carry luggage, if you need to carry luggage, please register clearly when you book your order. 1 luggage is allowed per person. An extra 100 yuan per piece will be charged if you failed to make a note when booking your order or if it turns out more than 1 piece of luggage per guest.
- Other items not mentioned in the above [fee included]
Booking and Confirmation Process
- Due to high demand, inventory is mostly synchronous but sometimes not. Our consultant will check real time availability onsite and confirm seats.
- You will receive your booking information instantly via email. In the event that you do not receive our email, please check your spam folder, or log into your User Center to check your order status and download your voucher when available.
How To Use
- From December 1st until mid-March, the Minami Aso Railway sightseeing train will be suspended for the winter season. During this period, only regular local trains will be in operation.
- Due to the operations of the Minami Aso Railway, the order of sightseeing may be adjusted based on the train schedule for the day. Therefore, mid-tour departure is not recommended, as it may affect the subsequent itinerary.
- WARNING:This tour is not suitable for people with the following respiratory diseases (asthmatics - people with bronchial diseases - people with heart problems) and it is forbidden to enter the Aso volcano at any time, the toxic gases from the volcano may cause an attack, which can be serious and may lead to death.
- The night before the tour, you will receive a departure reminder email in your mailbox, which contains the vehicle registration number, the contact information of the guide and the pick up time. Guides do not initiate contact with guests.Please wait for the bus at the specified location according to the meeting time in the email.
- One-day trip itinerary, it is not recommended to carry luggage, if you need to carry luggage, please register clearly when you book your order. 1 luggage is allowed per person. An extra 100 yuan per piece will be charged if you failed to make a note when booking your order or if it turns out more than 1 piece of luggage per guest.
- Once confirmed, the date cannot be changed, late or no-show will be non-refundable.
- Be sure to provide complete information (name + number of people + phone number + WeChat ID + pick-up location) when making a reservation to avoid errors that may affect the itinerary.
- During the trip, please carry your passport and valuables with you and keep them safe. If there is any loss, theft, damage, etc., you will be responsible for it yourself.
- Elderly people, patients with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, and pregnant women are advised to be accompanied by relatives.
- This trip does not accept solo registration from customers under the age of 18. If you want to register, please ask your guardian to sign up for this trip together.
- This itinerary is a fixed itinerary for carpooling. Customers who are also participating in this itinerary must abide by the stay time at each attraction and follow the driver's arrangements. If you want to flexibly adjust your itinerary, please refer to our chartered tour service.
- Please note that if you fail to participate or cancel the trip due to personal problems, lateness, etc., no fees will be refunded.
- If a person leaves the group on his own during the trip, the transaction will be deemed invalid and no fees will be refunded. And if this results in personal or property safety, you must bear the consequences yourself.
- The arrival time of each trip may change due to traffic conditions, weather, festivals, and crowds on the day. If the trip is delayed or canceled due to the aforementioned or other force majeure factors, please forgive me and you will not be able to request a refund.
- Please wear light, suitable travel clothing and shoes to participate in this trip.
- Please be sure to abide by local laws and regulations in Japan, and do not carry items prohibited by Japanese law to avoid violating the law and affecting your own rights and interests.
- When moving freely, you should pay attention to your own personal and property safety. If you fail to listen to advice and an accident occurs or causes losses, you will be responsible for the consequences.
- Traffic jams may occur on weekends and red days, so if you are worried about traffic jams, you can avoid joining the tour on weekends or red days.
- Infants aged 0-2 years old without occupying seats are free of charge; please inform the number of infants in advance when placing an order. If you do not specify the number of children under 3 years old without seats in advance, resulting in insufficient space in the car or overcrowding, the driver and guide have the right to refuse to get on the car, and the fee will not be refunded.
- Reference model:9-14Car: ToyotaHAICEor equivalent;18-22Vehicle: minibus;twenty twoCars and above: large buses. The above vehicles are for reference only. The actual number will be adjusted according to the number of people traveling on the day.
- Children under 3 years old are free of charge without occupying a seat. Please inform us in advance when registering; children over 3 years old are treated as adults.
Terms & Conditions
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation Period
Policy
What if you miss the appointed time or departure date?
Once the booking is confirmed, an absence or failure to show up on the scheduled date or time is a no-show. No refunds or reschedules will be issued for no-shows and late arrivals.
Other important information
- Seniors aged 70 years and above (inclusive) must ensure that they are in good health and suitable to travel, and must be accompanied by family members or friends over the age of 22 throughout the trip.
- Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by at least one adult passenger throughout the trip.
- The elderly need a health certificate. To check the health certificate, please fill it out and submit it to the registration office before traveling (electronic version is available).
- Pregnant women, people with heart disease, fear of heights and other special groups are not suitable to participate in this tour. There is a risk of being rejected. Please book with caution.
- Includes a crater shuttle bus service worth 1,400 Japanese yen. No price difference will be refunded if the shuttle bus is not used.
- The night before the tour, you will receive a departure reminder email in your mailbox, which contains the vehicle registration number, the contact information of the guide and the pick up time. Guides do not initiate contact with guests.Please wait for the bus at the specified location according to the meeting time in the email.
- Due to the unpredictability of traffic conditions, weather, festivals or crowds on the day, the arrival time of each itinerary may change. According to Japanese law, the maximum working time for drivers is 10 hours. In order to ensure the safety of the driver and the stability of driving, the itinerary may be adjusted according to actual conditions, including reducing the time spent visiting attractions or canceling certain attractions. We sincerely hope that all passengers can understand and support the adjustments we have made while ensuring safety.
- Seniors aged 70 years and above (inclusive) must ensure that they are in good health and suitable to travel, and must be accompanied by family members or friends over the age of 22 throughout the trip.
- The elderly need a health certificate. To check the health certificate, please fill it out and submit it to the registration office before traveling (electronic version is available).
- Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by at least one adult passenger throughout the trip.
- Pregnant women, people with heart disease, fear of heights and other special groups are not suitable to participate in this tour. There is a risk of being rejected. Please book with caution.
- In the event of the aforementioned or other force majeure factors, we deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause you. Please understand our position, we will not be able to provide refund services for this reason. This decision was made out of responsibility for the safety of drivers and passengers, and to ensure the smooth running of the entire team.
- We are always committed to providing you with the best travel experience, but in some cases we need to be flexible and adjust our itinerary plans based on actual conditions. Thank you for your understanding and support. Other force majeure factors may include but are not limited to: Natural disasters: Natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, typhoons, etc. may affect the itinerary. Traffic Accidents: Road traffic accidents, traffic jams, etc. may cause travel delays. Weather conditions: Severe weather conditions, such as heavy snow, heavy rain, fog, etc., may affect transportation and itinerary arrangements. Government regulations: Emergency regulations, traffic controls, etc. issued by the government may cause changes to the itinerary. Health Emergencies: Sudden health problems of travelers or team members may require first aid and emergency treatment, resulting in changes to the itinerary. Social events: Strikes, protests, social unrest, etc. may have unpredictable impacts on transportation and itineraries. Mechanical Failure: Mechanical failure of a vehicle, such as a vehicle, may cause travel delays.
- When moving freely, you should pay attention to your own personal and property safety. If you fail to listen to advice and an accident occurs or causes losses, you will be responsible for the consequences.
- During the trip, please carry your passport and valuables with you and keep them safe. If there is any loss, theft, damage, etc., you will be responsible for it yourself.
- Please note that if you fail to participate or cancel the trip due to personal problems, lateness, etc., no fees will be refunded.
- Please be sure to abide by local laws and regulations in Japan, and do not carry items prohibited by Japanese law to avoid violating the law and affecting your own rights and interests.
- Infants aged 0-2 years old without occupying seats are free of charge; please inform the number of infants in advance when placing an order. If you do not specify the number of children under 3 years old without seats in advance, resulting in insufficient space in the car or overcrowding, the driver and guide have the right to refuse to get on the car, and the fee will not be refunded.
- Please wear light, suitable travel clothing and shoes to participate in this trip.
- Please note that if you fail to participate or cancel the trip due to personal problems, lateness, etc., no fees will be refunded.
Reviews Scores
15
Reviews
5
Simple formula for a fantastic outing: volcano + meadow + onsen = total satisfaction.
We were lucky to see Aso’s crater venting that day, and later the steam and mist weaving through Kurokawa's alleys—it all felt magical.
An ideal blend of geological wonders and cultural relaxation. A tour both eye-opening and soul-soothing.
The crater was magnetic, Kusasenri felt like nature’s cathedral, and Kurokawa’s quaint onsen streets were dreamy. Highly recommend!
So many highlights in one journey: exhilarating volcano views, gentle hikes in green fields, and hot baths beside rivers. Loved it.
From puffing smoke to paddling your feet in hot springs—this tour really shows off what Kyushu does best.
Majestic crater views, quiet country walks, and healing hot springs—this tour mastered the balance between excitement and tranquility.
Well-paced, beautifully scenic, and endlessly memorable. If you want a mix of adventure and chill, this tour has it all.
Perfect day trip. Volcano power in the morning, grassy meadows at midday, and hot spring relaxation by evening. Just brilliant.
This scenic trio—volcano, meadow, and onsen—made me fall for Kyushu all over again