Takachiho Gorge and Mount Aso Scenic Day Tour
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable full-day tour to Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki to the awe-inspiring Mount Aso in Kumamoto. Begin your journey with a scenic drive through lush countryside before arriving at the stunning Takachiho Gorge, a dramatic canyon formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. Stroll along the riverside path, admire the famous Manai Falls, and enjoy an optional boat ride for a magical view of the emerald waters and towering cliffs. Afterward, savor a delicious local beef lunch at the charming Chiho-no-ie Restaurant before heading to the Aso region. Explore the vast grasslands of Kusasenri, visit the Aso Volcano Museum to learn about the region’s powerful geothermal activity, and even try the optional Kusasenri Horseback Riding Experience for an unforgettable ride across volcanic plains. This tour perfectly blends natural beauty, culture, and adventure — an ideal experience for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking the hidden wonders of Japan’s southern highlands.
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What's Included
✓ Included
- Lunch
- Round-trip transfers to and from the meet up location
- Admission to Takachiho Gorge Boat Ride (if selected the Option)
- English / Chinese-speaking guide
✗ Not Included
- Admission to Takachiho Gorge Boat Ride (if not Selected the Option)
- Admission to Aso Volcano Museum
- Admission to Kusasenri Horseback Riding Experience
- Other personal expenses
Itinerary
1
Stop 1
Address: Lawson Fukuoka Oriental Hotel Departure: Meet the operator at 08:00. The operator will make the final confirmation accordingly. The tour guide will be holding a “GOGODAY” flag. We will send you an email between 21:00-22:00 the day before your trip with information about your guide and vehicle for the following day. Please check your spam folder as well. During peak season, the notification time may be delayed, so please bear with us. …Latecomers or no-shows can’t be refunded Please arrive at the location 10 mins before the departure time
2
Stop 2
At Takachiho Gorge, travelers will be captivated by one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The gorge features towering basalt cliffs carved by the Gokase River, creating a dramatic canyon of columnar rock formations. Visitors can stroll along the scenic riverside path for spectacular viewpoints or choose to rent a rowboat and glide beneath the iconic Manai Waterfall, cascading gracefully from the cliffs above. The area is surrounded by lush greenery in summer and fiery foliage in autumn, offering postcard-perfect scenery year-round. Along the way, travelers can enjoy local snacks, shop for souvenirs, and experience the tranquil beauty that makes Takachiho Gorge one of Kyushu’s must-see destinations.
3
Stop 3
The Takachiho Gorge Boat Ride offers a truly magical way to experience one of Japan’s most stunning natural landscapes. Travelers can row through the crystal-clear Gokase River, surrounded by towering basalt cliffs that rise dramatically on both sides. The highlight of the ride is gliding right beneath the beautiful Manai Waterfall, where cool mist and cascading water create an unforgettable atmosphere. The gentle rowing allows you to take in the gorge’s serene beauty from a unique perspective, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Whether you visit during the lush green summer or the colorful autumn season, the Takachiho Gorge boat ride is an experience that feels straight out of a Japanese painting. (Boating fee not included in this plan)
4
Stop 4
Manai Falls is the iconic 17-meter-high waterfall that flows dramatically into the emerald Gokase River inside Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture. Surrounded by towering basalt cliffs, the falls create a misty, magical atmosphere that changes with the seasons—from lush green in summer to fiery red maples in autumn. Visitors can admire the cascade from the riverside walking path or get an even closer view by taking the Takachiho Gorge Boat Ride, where you can row directly beneath the falling water for unforgettable photos and a truly immersive experience.
5
Stop 5
Food pictures are for reference only. The actual food served shall prevail. Actual dining time is subject to the schedule on the day of the event and may be earlier or later than scheduled. In case of irresistible factors, it will be adjusted to Aso beef lunch.
6
Stop 6
Mount Nakadake, located within the Aso Volcano complex in Kumamoto Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most active volcanoes and a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder. Travelers can get close to the steaming crater, where the vivid turquoise volcanic lake and rising sulfuric smoke create a dramatic and otherworldly landscape. On clear days, the surrounding Mount Aso caldera offers breathtaking panoramic views of lush grasslands, rolling hills, and the vast Kusasenri Plain below. Visitors can explore the area by bus, ropeway (when operating), or scenic walking paths, depending on volcanic activity levels. It’s a rare opportunity to witness the raw power of nature up close — an unforgettable highlight for adventurers and nature lovers
7
Stop 7
Kusasenri is a stunning grassland located within the Aso Volcano caldera in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. Sprawling across a vast open plain, it’s famous for its lush green meadows, grazing horses and cows, and the scenic pond that reflects the surrounding mountains — including the active Mount Nakadake in the distance. Travelers can walk along the gentle trails, ride horses, or simply relax and enjoy the panoramic views of one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. In every season, Kusasenri offers a different charm — from vibrant greens in summer to golden hues in autumn — making it a peaceful yet awe-inspiring stop for nature lovers and photographers alike.
8
Stop 8
The Aso Volcano Museum is an educational and fascinating stop located near Kusasenri in Aso Kuju National Park. Here, travelers can learn about the geology, history, and activity of the Aso Volcano — one of the largest active volcanoes in the world. The museum features interactive exhibits, videos, and models that explain how volcanic eruptions shape the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also watch real-time footage from cameras monitoring the Nakadake Crater, gaining insight into the power of nature. It’s an ideal spot for both adults and children to deepen their understanding of volcanoes before or after exploring the dramatic scenery of Mount Aso.
Meeting & End Point
📍
Meeting Point
Departure: Meet the operator at 08:00
Look for the guide holding a “GOGODAY” flag.
Arrive 10 mins early. No refunds for latecomers or no-shows.
🏁
End Point
Departure: Meet the operator at 08:00
Look for the guide holding a “GOGODAY” flag.
Arrive 10 mins early. No refunds for latecomers or no-shows.
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Good to Know
- Wheelchair accessible
- 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
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Free for children aged 0-2 as long as they will not occupy separate seats
- Children aged 3+ will be charged the same rate as adults
- Child seats are not available
- The menu might change depending on the season and availability of ingredients
- Some attractions might need to skipped because of capacity or weather conditions
- Due to the length of the journey, the actual arrival time may be affected by factors such as traffic and weather. The above times are estimates only. To avoid any inconvenience, please refrain from scheduling other activities immediately following the tour.
- During peak season or other special circumstances, the departure time of the tour may be earlier or slightly delayed. The exact departure time will be subject to the email notification you receive the day before departure. Please prepare accordingly.
- The transportation, tour, and stop times during the itinerary are subject to actual conditions on the day. In the event of special circumstances (such as traffic jams or weather conditions), the tour guide will reasonably adjust the order of visits or reduce attractions or time, depending on the actual situation and with the consent of the guests.
- The Travel Time is included in the Itinerary.
Known For:
Special Instructions
We will share the the E-Voucher a day before the Travel date. We will send you an email between 21:00-22:00 the day before your trip with information about your guide and vehicle for the following day.