PRIVATE Day MiniBUS Tour to Mt.Aso & Kumamoto Castle from Fukuoka

Fukuoka Prefecture , Japan

PRIVATE Day MiniBUS Tour to Mt.Aso & Kumamoto Castle from Fukuoka

Active

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Mt. Aso is an active volcano, and the area is a national park. If the volcano is not erupting, we can take our bus to the crater. There are also optional activities in the vicinity.
You don't have to navigate your way using public transportation. We are very familiar with the area and our private bus will help you save time and visit many places.
"DISCOVER FAR WEST IN FAR EAST" From (or to) Fukuoka Japan, our private chartered bus will support your journey.

Mount Aso is the heart of Kyushu, located in the middle of Kyushu. the western island nation of Japan. The volcano is still active. It is a very popular place in Kyushu from spring to autumn, which is said it can ease daily life's stress. Accessible from Fukuoka, it is ideal for outdoor groups as well.

*Depending on the eruption situation, you may not be able to get close to the crater of Mt. Aso. In that case, please enjoy your free time at Kusasenri.

Available options

7m Minibus:21+6seat *no trunk

7m Minibus:21+6seat *no trunk: 7m Minibus:21+6seat *no trunk<br/>Pickup included

What's included

one 7m length Minibus ( 21 + 6 seats *no trunk ) and one driver, an English speaking guide

toll and parking fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

8:00 < PICK UP > Your Hotel or HAKATA Station, HAKATA Port in Fukuoka city

At the airport, a driver with a name board will meet you at the arrival gate and guide you to the bus parking lot.
If you can apply, please let us know your [arrival flight number] in advance.

Mount Aso is the heart of Kyushu, located in the middle of Kyushu, the western island nation of Japan. The volcano is still active.
It is a very popular place in Kyushu from spring to autumn, which is said it can ease daily life's stress.

Stop 2

It takes about 2.5 hours to get to Mount Aso from Fukuoka city via the expressway in Kumamoto city.

10:45-14:00 < free time and lunch >
New Kusasenri, 2391-15 Nagakusa, Aso, Kumamoto
↓
*Eruption status
< Active volcano > Aso Nakadake Crater,
Kurokawa, Aso

*Depending on the eruption situation, it may not be possible to go to the crater of Mt. Aso.
In that case, please spend your free time at "Kusasenri." There, you can also try light horse riding (for a fee).
↓
https://www.aso-volcano.jp/eng/index.html

You may also want to book other activities separately.

"Grazing lands and volcanic activity"

This gorgeous must-see geosite includes a rain fed pool and a 785,000-square-meter grassland growing inside an inactive crater in the foothills of Mt. Eboshi. It's a perfect place to stop for a stroll alongside the cows and horses that graze peacefully as Mt. Nakadake sends up smoke in the distance. Horse rides through the grasslands are another popular activity.

Stop 3

15:15-16:30 < guided walk > around KUMAMOTO Castle,
Chuo ward, Kumamoto

*closed at 17:00
* Paid rooms in Kumamoto Castle: ¥800 per adult (≒$5)
https://castle.kumamoto-guide.jp/en/

"Beautiful reconstruction of the original castle"

Kumamoto Castle (熊本城, Kumamotojō) is one of the most impressive castles in Japan. With large castle grounds and a variety of buildings, Kumamoto Castle offers its visitors one of the most complete castle experiences in Japan.

Only a few structures have survived the centuries since the castle's construction in 1607 intact. The castle keep and most other buildings are modern reconstructions, but the reconstructions are mostly of a high quality and new buildings are continually being added. With about 800 cherry trees, the castle becomes a popular cherry blossom spot usually in late March and early April.

Stop 4

18:15 < DROP OFF > Your Hotel or HAKATA Station, HAKATA Port in Fukuoka city

The food stalls in Nakasu start appearing from around 6pm. It's only a short subway ride away from Hakata Station, so if you have the time, why not go there yourself?

What's not included

*The castle itself is free to enter, paid rooms in Kumamoto Castle: ¥800 per adult (≒$5)

meal and drink

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Fukuoka Prefecture

Fukuoka Prefecture, located on the northern part of Kyushu Island, is known for its vibrant city life, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With a perfect blend of modern attractions and traditional charm, it offers a unique experience for travelers.

Top Attractions

Ohori Park

A large park featuring a beautiful lake, a Japanese garden, and historical sites. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Japanese Garden: ¥400)

Fukuoka Tower

An iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. The tower is also home to a museum and an observation deck.

Architecture 1-2 hours ¥900 (adults), ¥700 (children)

Dazaifu Tenman-gu

A famous Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of learning. The shrine is surrounded by beautiful plum and iris gardens.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (garden entry: ¥500)

Canal City Hakata

A large shopping and entertainment complex featuring a canal, themed restaurants, and various shops. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Shopping/Entertainment 2-4 hours Free entry (costs vary by attraction)

Uminonakamichi Seaside Park

A large park with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a variety of plants and flowers. It's a great place for a relaxing day out.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥400 (adults), ¥150 (children)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hakata Ramen

A rich and creamy pork bone broth ramen topped with chashu (braised pork) and pickled ginger. It's one of the most famous dishes in Fukuoka.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (noodles)

Mentaiko (Spicy Cod Roe)

Marinated and spiced cod roe, often served as a topping for rice or noodles. It's a popular delicacy from Fukuoka.

Snack/Dinner Contains fish, spicy

Motsunabe

A hot pot dish made with offal (usually beef or pork) and vegetables. It's a hearty and comforting dish, especially popular in colder months.

Dinner Contains beef or pork, gluten (soy sauce)

Yaki Gyoza (Pan-fried Dumplings)

Crispy pan-fried dumplings filled with pork and vegetables. They are often served with a side of soy-vinegar dipping sauce.

Snack/Dinner Contains pork, gluten (soy sauce)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Ohori Park and Uminonakamichi Seaside Park Cycling along the coast and through scenic areas Onsen (hot spring) bathing in nearby towns like Kurokawa Strolling through beautiful gardens and parks Exploring historic sites like Dazaifu Tenman-gu Shrine and Kushida Shrine Trying traditional crafts and workshops Swimming and sunbathing at Itoshima Beach Boat tours in Yanagawa

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn add to the beauty of the region.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese (limited), Korean (limited)
English: Limited (English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas and hotels)

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Fukuoka is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is relatively uncommon. However, travelers should still take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Fukuoka Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Hakata Station

By bus

Hakata Bus Terminal, Tenjin Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Kūkō Line, Hakozaki Line, and Nanakuma Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hakata Tenjin Dazaifu Momochi

Day trips

Dazaifu

10 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

Dazaifu is a historic town known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and gardens. It's a peaceful retreat from the bustling city of Fukuoka.

Itoshima

30 km from Fukuoka • Full day

Itoshima is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, scenic views, and fresh seafood. It's a popular spot for a relaxing day trip.

Yanagawa

30 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

Yanagawa is a charming town known as the 'City of Water' for its network of canals. It's famous for its traditional boats, historic sites, and unagi (eel) cuisine.

Festivals

Hakata Gion Yamakasa • July (Ongoing for a month, with the main event on July 15th) Dazaifu Tenman-gu Plum Festival • February to March Fukuoka Hakata Aki Matsuri • October (First weekend)

Pro tips

Try the famous Hakata ramen and other local dishes at the city's many ramen shops and yatai (food stalls)
Visit Dazaifu Tenman-gu Shrine and other historic sites to learn about Fukuoka's rich history and culture
Explore the city's beautiful parks and gardens, such as Ohori Park and Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
Take a day trip to nearby cities and towns, such as Dazaifu, Itoshima, and Yanagawa, to experience the diverse landscapes and attractions of the region
Use the city's efficient and affordable public transport system, including the subway and buses, to get around easily and conveniently