Things To Do
in Aso
Aso is a town located in Kumamoto Prefecture on the island of Kyushu in Japan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the active volcano Mount Aso, which is one of the largest calderas in the world. Visitors can enjoy hiking, hot springs, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Aso also has a rich cultural heritage, with historic shrines and temples that attract tourists from all over the world.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Aso Volcano Museum to learn about the region's unique geology. Head out to see the stunning active craters and take in the breathtaking views.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, savoring Aso’s famous beef. Afterward, take a hike around the outer rim of the crater for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing soak at an onsen (hot spring) nearby. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and possibly catch a stunning sunset over the mountains.
Start with a scenic drive through the Aso Kuju National Park, enjoying the lush greenery and sweeping landscapes. Choose a short trail to hike, immersing yourself in nature.
Have lunch at a mountain hut or picnic in one of the scenic spots. Post-lunch, visit Kusasenri Plateau to view herds of cows and incredible views of the Aso caldera.
Head to a local farm for a farm-to-table dinner, tasting fresh produce from the region. Conclude your evening stargazing, due to minimal light pollution in the area.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including the iconic Mount Aso, one of the world's largest active volcanoes.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditional festivals.
- Excellent outdoor activities such as hiking, hot springs, and scenic drives.
- Delicious local cuisine featuring regional specialties like Aso beef.
- Welcoming community with a focus on hospitality and local experiences.
- Risk of volcanic activity which can disrupt travel and safety.
- Limited public transportation options may necessitate car travel.
- Can be less accessible for international tourists compared to larger cities.
- Seasonal weather variations may affect outdoor plans.
- Economic reliance on tourism can lead to fluctuations in local business stability.
Best Activities in Aso
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful hiking trails around Aso's volcanic landscape, such as the Aso Kuju National Park.
Enjoy scenic cycling routes through rural areas and picturesque countryside in and around Aso.
Take a hot air balloon ride to get a bird's-eye view of the stunning Aso region and its volcanic features.
Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs that are abundant in the Aso area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aso with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aso
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Aso caldera and surrounding mountains, as well as beautiful photo opportunities of the natural landscape.
Provides panoramic views of the Aso caldera and the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal spot for photography and appreciating the natural beauty of the area.
Known for its picturesque grassland and grazing horses with the backdrop of the Aso mountains, offering excellent opportunities for photography and enjoying the serene scenery.
Food in Aso
Aso Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Basashi is a local delicacy consisting of thinly sliced raw horse meat. It's typically served with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. You can savor this unique dish at traditional izakayas like Aso Kumamoto Izakaya in Aso.
Must-Try!
Akaushi beef, known for its marbling and tender texture, is a must-try in Aso. Enjoy Akaushi beef in various forms, such as steak, sukiyaki, or shabu-shabu, at restaurants like Yume Mart in Aso.
Aso Tofu, made from locally grown soybeans and pristine Aso water, offers a silky and delicate flavor. Sample Aso Tofu dishes at Momotaro-an, a charming tofu specialty restaurant in Aso.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aso better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Aso Farmland Market to discover an array of local produce, snacks, and souvenirs. Indulge in freshly harvested fruits, dairy products, and street snacks like yakisoba noodles and deep-fried tempura.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aso, it is important to show respect for elders and people of authority. This can be demonstrated through polite language, gestures, and attentive listening.
When entering a home or certain traditional establishments in Aso, it is customary to remove your shoes at the entrance as a sign of respect for the space and its inhabitants.
Greetings are an integral part of Japanese culture, and in Aso, it is polite to bow slightly when greeting someone. Additionally, addressing people with the appropriate honorifics is a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Aso
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Aso. It is not expected or required to tip in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Aso, Japan, cash is widely used for transactions. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many places, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. Mobile payment methods are becoming increasingly popular as well.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms and enjoy mild weather
Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, but can be hot and humid
Beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing
Chance to see snow-covered landscapes and enjoy winter sports
Aso at Night
Hiking in Aso
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An active volcano and the largest volcano in Japan, offering various hiking trails with breathtaking views of the caldera and surrounding landscape.
A scenic area near Mount Aso known for its vast grasslands and panoramic views, providing various trails for both casual strolls and serious hikes.
A beautiful hiking area featuring unique rock formations and lush greenery, offering trails for different skill levels and stunning natural scenery.
The highest peak in the Aso caldera, providing a challenging hike with rewarding views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
One of the active craters of Mount Aso, accessible by hiking trails that allow visitors to closely observe volcanic activity and the crater itself.
Aiports
How to reach Aso by plane.
The nearest major airport to Aso, located approximately 30 km to the northwest. Offers domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 130 km east of Aso, this is a significant international airport serving the Fukuoka region with numerous domestic and international flights.
Situated approximately 150 km southwest of Aso, this airport provides both domestic and limited international services.
Located around 140 km northeast of Aso, this airport offers various domestic flights and some international connections.
Approximately 120 km to the southeast of Aso, this airport mainly offers domestic flights with some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Aso consists of Japanese citizens, primarily of Japanese descent.
Asmall but growing number of foreign nationals reside in Aso, including expatriates and immigrants from various countries.
Aso attracts a significant number of domestic and international tourists, particularly those interested in its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Aso, with local teams and school competitions being common. The sport has a significant following and is often played in local parks and schools.
Soccer is another favorite sport in Aso, with many youth leagues and clubs promoting the game. The community actively participates in both playing and supporting local teams.
Basketball is popular among younger demographics in Aso, with school teams and community events frequently organized. It enjoys a strong following, especially in urban areas.
Rugby has seen growing interest in Aso, with local clubs developing and participating in regional competitions. The sport promotes teamwork and has a dedicated fan base.
Traditional sports such as Sumo and Kendo are also practiced in Aso, reflecting the local culture and heritage. Sumo clubs and Kendo schools contribute to the preservation of these practices.
Given the mountainous terrain surrounding Aso, sports such as hiking, climbing, and trail running are immensely popular among residents and visitors alike. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aso.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Aso's traditional cuisine leans heavily towards meat and dairy, some restaurants like Cafe Parque and Kurokawa Manjudo offer vegetarian and vegan options, including tofu-based dishes and fresh vegetable tempura.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find rice-based dishes and gluten-free soba noodles at select establishments. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a satisfying dining experience.