1-day tour to Kumamoto Castle, Aso Volcano, and Kusasenri in Kyushu, Japan

▲ ▼Kumamoto Castle (approx. 90–110 min, free time available, admission ticket costs JPY 800, at own expense) Kumamoto Castle ranks among Japan's "Three Great Castles." This renowned national treasure was constructed over seven years starting in 1601 by Kato Kiyomasa, the first feudal lord of Kumamoto Domain and a master castle builder. After the Kato family's downfall, it became the residence of the Hosokawa clan. Featuring unique stone walls called "Musha-gaeshi" that make attackers retreat and the splendid Honmaru Palace, the castle offers numerous highlights as Kumamoto's iconic landmark. In spring, its breathtaking cherry blossoms attract countless flower enthusiasts.

▲ Kumamon's Office (self-guided visit, 30 min round-trip walk required, please plan your time accordingly) Born with the full opening of the Kyushu Shinkansen in March 2011, Kumamon serves as Kumamoto Prefecture's official tourism ambassador and happiness minister. Kumamon's Office is the base for his activities, promoting Kumamoto's tourism and merchandise. From the sales manager's room to limited-edition merchandise and a café featuring local ingredients, there's plenty to see, buy, and enjoy. When the minister is present, you might even catch an adorable performance on stage.

▲ ▼Aso Volcano Aso Volcano is located in the northeastern part of Kumamoto Prefecture in Kyushu, Japan. It is a famous active volcano in Japan, featuring a rare caldera landform in the world. It is also one of the few scenic spots where you can observe an active volcano up close. Here, you can overlook the crater at close range and gaze at the continuous plumes of white smoke, allowing your journey to experience the astonishing power and breathtaking beauty of nature. Aso Volcano Museum (admission ticket: JPY 1,100, at your own expense) The Aso Volcano Museum faces the vast grasslands of Kusasenri and focuses on the theme of "Aso Volcano," showcasing the region's topography, geology, flora, and fauna. It preserves a wealth of fascinating materials that help visitors understand the history of Aso Volcano.

▲ Aso Kusa Senri is a vast grassland located at the northern foot of Mount Eboshidake, featuring a rainwater-formed pond at its center. Cattle and horses graze freely across the plains, offering ever-changing scenery throughout the year. Stroll leisurely across this 20,000-hectare expanse of lush greenery, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the serene sight of grazing livestock—an experience so tranquil it feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Horseback riding experience at Kusa Senri (additional fee required; Course A: approx. 5 min for JPY 1,500).

▲ ▼Aso Michi-no-Eki (approx. 15 min, free time available) Aso boasts one of the world's largest calderas and majestic outer rim mountains, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Aso Five Peaks. The roadside station features seasonal specialties like fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, dairy products, desserts, and handmade bento boxes - all unique to the Aso region. As part of Kumamoto Prefecture's collaboration with Eiichiro Oda's popular manga "One Piece," a statue of Usopp from the Straw Hat Pirates is displayed in Aso Station's plaza.