Kyushu Kumamoto Aso Volcano and Kurokawa Onsen Day Tour from Fukuoka: Mount Aso Kusasenri, Aso Volcano Museum and Aso Shrine丨Optional Horse Riding

Warning:
Individuals with respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma, bronchial diseases) or heart disease are strictly prohibited from entering Mount Aso at any time. Volcanic gases may trigger serious health problems and, in severe cases, can be fatal.

8:00am – Fukuoka
Start your beautiful journey today.
Meeting point pick-up/drop-off: 8:00am at Lawson, Oriental Hotel Fukuoka (in front of Hakata Station Chikushi Exit)
Address:
ローソン オリエンタルホテル福岡店
4-23 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan
* Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes early, as the tour will depart on time. Guests are kindly asked to cooperate and follow the driver/guide's instructions.

10:40am – Kumamoto
▼ Mount Aso – Nakadake Crater (approx. 15–20 minutes, free time; other entrance fees not included)
* If entry to Mount Aso is restricted, the itinerary will be adjusted based on on-site conditions.
Mount Aso, located in northeastern Kumamoto Prefecture, is one of Japan's most famous active volcanoes, featuring a rare caldera formation. It is one of the few spots where visitors can view an active volcano up close. From here, you can look down into the crater and watch the plumes of smoke rising, experiencing the awe-inspiring power and spectacular scenery of nature.
▼ Kusasenri Grassland, Mount Aso (approx. 60 minutes, free time; includes lunch time, lunch cost not included)
Kusasenri Grassland, located at the northern foot of Mount Eboshi, is a vast plain with a rainwater pond at its center and grazing cows and horses. The scenery changes with the seasons throughout the year. Strolling across the 20,000-hectare green meadow, breathing in the fresh mountain air while watching the animals roam freely, gives you a sense of peace and the feeling of being in a fairy-tale landscape.
【Aso Volcano Museum】
Facing the wide Kusasenri Grassland, the Aso Volcano Museum showcases the topography, geology, and flora and fauna of Mount Aso. It preserves a wealth of fascinating information about the volcano's history. Visitors can experience the formation of Mount Aso through a large 3D model and explore valuable information on other volcanoes in Japan and worldwide. The museum also features live video feeds of the Nakadake Crater using the latest camera system.
【Kusasenri Horseback Riding Experience】 (optional, additional cost)
Want to enjoy horseback riding in the stunning natural surroundings of Aso? Experienced staff lead the horses for a leisurely walk, making it safe even for children and first-time riders. Feel the gentle breeze while riding and take in the spectacular natural scenery. Kusasenri's prime location allows you to admire the volcano's smoke plume while enjoying the pleasure of riding across the green meadow.

12:50pm – Kumamoto
▼ Aso Shrine (approx. 30–40 minutes, free time)
Aso Shrine is located on the northern side of Mount Aso in Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture. It is the head shrine of all 450 Aso shrines across Japan and holds historical significance as a Shinto shrine of national importance (Shikinaisha, Myojin Taisha, former Kanpei Taisha, now a Bekkaku Kanpeisha).
With a history of over 2,500 years, Aso Shrine enshrines 12 deities, led by Takeiwatatsu-no-Mikoto, the grandson of Emperor Jimmu and the ancestral founder of Aso. It is recognized as an important cultural asset of Japan.
【Aso Shrine Approach】
The approach road leading to Aso Shrine, located within the shrine grounds, is lined with many mountain cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and other varieties. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies sold along the street while admiring the cherry blossoms.
* The cherry blossom season typically occurs from late March to early April each year (subject to actual weather conditions). 

14:10pm – Kumamoto
▼ Kurokawa Onsen – A Hot Spring Village with Stunning Scenery and Local Delicacies (approx. 90 minutes, free time; hot spring bathing costs not included)
Kumamoto is rich in natural hot springs, but few are as famous as Kurokawa Onsen. This mountain town features about 30 hot spring inns, arranged neatly with a vintage black-themed design, creating a truly breathtaking view. The combination of beautiful rivers, dense greenery, and the steam rising from the hot springs offers visitors a dreamy atmosphere.
The greatest charm of Kurokawa Onsen lies in its outdoor baths that take full advantage of the surrounding mountains. Each inn has its own uniquely designed open-air bath, allowing guests to enjoy both the natural scenery and a relaxing soak.
In 2008, Kurokawa Onsen ranked first in the "Atmosphere"category of the Japan Top 100 Hot Springs by Kankokeizai News. In the 2009 Michelin Travel Guide Japan, it was rated as a two-star hot spring destination.
【Vintage Streets & Local Cuisine】
Nestled in a misty green valley, this pastoral town offers enjoyable strolls even if you don't bathe in the hot springs. Unlike many other Japanese resort towns, Kurokawa Onsen retains its simple, pure, and traditional charm, making visitors feel like they are in a hidden paradise far from the hustle and bustle of urban Japan. The hot spring streets feature not only inns but also souvenir shops and dining options, offering everything from authentic Japanese cuisine made with local mountain vegetables to delicate desserts.
【Healing Benefits of Kurokawa Onsen】
The healing waters of Kurokawa Onsen flow directly from underground springs and have been popular for over 300 years. The mineral-rich hot spring water is believed to have therapeutic effects, with different springs offering varying health benefits.
The naturally hot spring water is adjusted to a comfortable bathing temperature, though some guests may still find it quite warm. Most baths include cooler pools or outdoor baths to help improve blood circulation. Guests can relax, enjoy a variety of hot spring experiences, and explore the charming town.

15:40pm – Return
Conclude a pleasant day of sightseeing and begin the return journey.

18:00pm – Fukuoka
Lawson, Fukuoka Oriental Hotel (in front of Hakata Station Chikushi Exit)
ローソン オリエンタルホテル福岡店
4-23 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan

B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: Excluded