Mount Aso and Takachiho Classic Day Tour

Fukuoka , Japan

Mount Aso and Takachiho Classic Day Tour

Active

8h - 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

Experience Kyushu's three most famous natural wonders in one day—get up close and personal with the Aso crater, stroll through the vast Kusasenri grasslands, and explore the Takachiho Gorge on a boat trip through basalt cliffs and waterfalls (with optional boat tour).

Daily departures from Hakata Station, with groups of four departing daily. English-speaking guides accompany you, with dedicated shuttle service throughout the trip. Complimentary limited-edition Mount Aso milk. Experience Kyushu's geological wonders and mythical scenery.

Highlight itinerary with ample stops at the volcano and canyon. Enjoy optional boat tours (refunds if service is suspended due to water levels). During peak season, if the volcano is closed, a visit to Kamishiro-mi Kumanoza Shrine will be offered instead to ensure a complete itinerary.

Available options

Mount Aso and Takachiho Classic Day Tour

What's included

Round-trip transport from LAWSON Hakata

Multilingual guide (English/Japanese/Chinese)

Detailed itinerary

The central crater of Mount Aso is an active volcano located in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, renowned for its active fumaroles and spectacular scenery, serving as the heart of the Aso volcanic complex. Visitors can observe the majestic eruptions up close, the exposed volcanic rock formations, and the crater lake tinged emerald green by volcanic gases. However, volcanic activity may impact access, so it is essential to confirm the latest information in advance and adhere to mountain access restrictions when volcanic gas levels exceed safe thresholds or volcanic activity becomes frequent.

Kusasenri Beach (Kusasenri-ga-hama) or Kusasenri (Kusasenri) is a grassland area covering 785,000 square meters located in Aso City and Minamiaso Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture. It is also one of Aso's most representative tourist destinations. In March 2013, it was designated as a National Scenic Spot and Natural Monument (Yonezuka and Kusasenri-ga-hama), with a designated area of 1,258,508 square meters.

Takachiho Gorge is a V-shaped gorge located in Miyazaki Prefecture, formed by the erosion of pyroclastic flows ejected by the volcanic activity of Mount Aso by the Gokase River. It has been designated as a national scenic spot and natural monument. Its striking feature is the majestic landscape of columnar jointed cliffs, approximately 80 to 100 meters high, stretching for about 7 kilometers. Among these, the “Mana-i Waterfall,” selected as one of Japan's Hundred Famous Waterfalls, serves as a symbol of the area. Visitors can enjoy the thrilling view of the waterfall up close from a rental boat or admire the fresh greenery and autumn foliage from the walking paths. The gorge is also known as a mystical place associated with mythology.

What's not included

Lunch

Takachiho Gorge Boat Ticket

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If fewer than 14 people sign up on the day, no guide service will be provided

Takachiho Gorge Boat Ticket require to purchase on site (optional)

Meeting point

Hakata Station Chikushi Exit (Lawson convenience store)

Important notes

For meeting point option : We send gathering info a day before your trip, please turn on your phone and check your inbox to keep in touch with the tour operator. Your guide will be carrying blue flag at gathering point for easy recognition.

About Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a vibrant coastal city in southern Japan known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm climate. As the largest city in Kyushu, it offers a perfect blend of traditional culture and modern urban living, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Top Attractions

Ohori Park

A large, beautiful park featuring a lake, gardens, and historic sites. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

The ruins of a historic castle that played a significant role in Japanese history. The site offers beautiful views and a glimpse into the past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Kushida Shrine

A historic Shinto shrine known for its vibrant festivals and beautiful architecture. It's a significant cultural and religious site.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Canal City Hakata

A large shopping and entertainment complex featuring a canal, theaters, and a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Shopping/Entertainment 1-3 hours Free to enter (costs vary for shops and restaurants)

Fukuoka Tower

A iconic tower offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. It's a great spot for photography and sightseeing.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee for observation deck and restaurant)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hakata Ramen

A type of ramen featuring a rich, creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, thin noodles, and toppings like chashu (braised pork) and green onions.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (noodles and broth)

Mentaiko

Spicy cod roe, often served as a topping for rice or noodles, or as a side dish.

Snack/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (if served with rice or noodles)

Motsunabe

A hot pot dish featuring offal, typically beef or pork, cooked in a savory broth with vegetables and tofu.

Dinner Contains meat, gluten (if served with noodles or dipping sauce)

Yaki Toro

Grilled chicken skewers, often seasoned with salt or soy sauce, and served with a side of grated daikon radish.

Dinner Contains chicken, gluten (if seasoned with soy sauce)

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains and parks Water sports at nearby beaches and waterways Onsen (hot spring) bathing Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting temples, shrines, and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boat rides on the canals of Yanagawa Swimming and water sports at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

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

These seasons offer pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, while autumn features vibrant fall foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese (limited), Korean (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Fukuoka is generally a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and tour guides
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing your PIN

Getting there

By air

Fukuoka Airport • 4.5 km from city center

By train

Hakata Station, Fukuoka 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

Tenjin Nakasu Hakata Dazaifu

Day trips

Dazaifu

10 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

A historic town known for its temples, shrines, and beautiful gardens. It offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience.

Yanagawa

30 km from Fukuoka • Full day

A picturesque town known as the 'City of Waterways' for its network of canals. It offers a unique and charming experience with its historic houses, boat rides, and local specialties.

Beppu

120 km from Fukuoka • Full day to overnight

A popular hot spring resort town known for its numerous hot springs, or 'hells' (jigoku), and scenic beauty. It offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival • July 1-15 (main events on July 15) Hakata Dontaku Festival • Early May (typically the first Sunday and the following day) Fukuoka Hakata Matsuri • October 15-18

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as Suica or Icoca, for convenient and discounted public transportation
Try local specialties, such as Hakata ramen, mentsuyaki, and yakitori, at yatai (food stalls) or local restaurants
Visit popular attractions, such as Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle Ruins, during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Tenjin, Nakasu, and Hakata, for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival and the Hakata Dontaku Festival, for a unique and memorable experience