Kyushu: Mt. Aso Volcano, Onsen, and Aso Shrine Full-Day Trip

Set out on a captivating journey to Kyushu, Japan’s southern island. Enjoy the grandeur of Mt. Aso, the largest active volcano in the country, before soaking in the mineral-rich waters of the renowned Kurokawa Onsen. Uncover the rich cultural heritage at the historic Aso Shrine, a Shinto shrine that’s over 2,500 years old. This full-day adventure promises a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural exploration, and rejuvenating relaxation. Discover the delights that await as you delve deeper into the enchanting realm of Kyushu.

Key Points

• A full-day trip from Fukuoka to explore Kyushu’s highlights, including Mt. Aso volcano, Aso Shrine, and the renowned Kurokawa Onsen hot springs.
• Priced from $77.69 per person with free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
• Includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking guide to provide commentary.
• Offers the opportunity to learn about Japan’s volcanic heritage and explore the Aso Grassland.
• Concludes with a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich waters of the Kurokawa Onsen hot springs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This full-day trip from Fukuoka takes visitors to some of Kyushu’s most iconic highlights, including the imposing Mt. Aso volcano, the historic Aso Shrine, and the renowned Kurokawa Onsen hot springs village.

Priced from $77.69 per person, the 10-hour excursion offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.

Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking guide are included.

Travelers can expect to explore the volcano’s vast caldera, stroll through the Aso Grasslands, and visit the Aso Volcano Museum before concluding their day with a relaxing soak in the hot springs of Kurokawa Onsen.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins at 8:00 AM with a pickup from the Lawson Fukuoka Oriental Hotel. The first stop is the iconic Aso Volcano, where travelers can explore Japan’s largest active volcano and its vast caldera. Next, they’ll visit the Aso Grassland, a rolling landscape dotted with grazing livestock. The Aso Volcano Museum provides insights into the region’s volcanic heritage. The tour then heads to the 2,500-year-old Aso Shrine, the head shrine of 450 Aso Shrines. Finally, guests can relax in the renowned hot springs village of Kurokawa Onsen.

Destination	Duration
Aso Volcano	1.5 hours
Aso Grassland	1 hour
Aso Volcano Museum	1 hour
Aso Shrine	1 hour
Kurokawa Onsen	2 hours

Transportation and Guide

For this tour, transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle.

A live tour guide is available to accompany the group, offering commentary in English, Japanese, and Chinese. The meeting point is in front of Hakata Station Chikushiguchi, where the guide can be identified by a yellow flag.

• The guide is knowledgeable about the local history and culture, providing a rich and informative experience.

• The air-conditioned transportation ensures a comfortable journey between the various destinations on the itinerary.

• The multilingual capabilities of the tour guide cater to the diverse needs of international visitors.

Aso Volcano: Exploring Japan’s Active Volcano

Though Kyushu’s Mount Aso is an active volcano, visitors can explore its vast caldera and experience the region’s volcanic heritage.

The caldera, one of the world’s largest, spans over 120 square kilometers. Travelers can marvel at the striking landscape, with rolling grasslands and grazing livestock.

Nearby, the Aso Volcano Museum provides an in-depth look at the mountain’s geological history and volcanic activity. From learning about past eruptions to understanding the ongoing monitoring efforts, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the power and significance of this natural wonder.

A visit to Mount Aso offers a unique window into Japan’s dynamic volcanic landscape.

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Aso Grassland: Grazing Livestock and Rolling Fields

Surrounding the Aso Volcano, the Aso Grassland stretches out as a vast, undulating expanse.

This grassy landscape is home to a unique ecosystem, where grazing livestock dot the rolling hills.

Visitors can:

• Witness the serene sight of cows and horses peacefully grazing amidst the lush greenery.
• Hike along the network of trails, taking in panoramic views of the caldera and surrounding peaks.
• Experience the tranquility of the grassland, a stark contrast to the volcanic activity of the nearby Aso Volcano.

The Aso Grassland offers a peaceful respite, allowing travelers to enjoy Kyushu’s natural splendor.

Aso Volcano Museum: Volcanic Heritage and Education

One of the highlights of the Aso Volcano tour is the Aso Volcano Museum. Visitors can learn about the region’s volcanic heritage and the science behind the active volcano.

The museum features exhibits on the volcano’s history, geology, and environmental impact. Interactive displays and multimedia installations make the information engaging and easy to understand.

Guests will come away with a deeper appreciation for the powerful natural forces that have shaped this remarkable landscape. The museum’s knowledgeable staff is on hand to answer questions and provide additional insights.

It’s an essential stop for anyone exploring the wonders of Mt. Aso.

Aso Shrine: Visiting a 2,500-Year-Old Shinto Shrine

After exploring the interactive exhibits at the Aso Volcano Museum, the tour moves on to another significant destination – the Aso Shrine.

This 2,500-year-old Shinto shrine is the head shrine of 450 Aso Shrines across Japan. Visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of the region:

• Witness the ornate architecture and observe Shinto rituals.
• Stroll through the serene shrine grounds, surrounded by towering cedar trees.
• Learn about the shrine’s history and its importance in Kyushu’s spiritual traditions.

The guided tour provides valuable insights, allowing participants to fully appreciate the significance of this ancient sacred site.

Kurokawa Onsen: Relaxing in a Renowned Hot Springs Village

After exploring the historic Aso Shrine, the tour proceeds to the renowned hot springs village of Kurokawa Onsen.

This quaint mountain town is famous for its traditional ryokans and outdoor hot spring baths. Visitors can soak in the soothing, mineral-rich waters and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

While entry to the onsen isn’t included in the tour price, it offers a delightful opportunity to unwind and take in Japan’s bathing culture.

With its picturesque streets and classic architecture, Kurokawa Onsen provides a tranquil respite from the day’s activities before returning to Fukuoka.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?

The tour is available on all days of the week, according to the information provided. The full-day trip from Fukuoka to Kyushu’s highlights, including Mt. Aso, Aso Shrine, and Kurokawa Onsen, is offered daily.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Lunch or Is It Provided?

Lunch is not provided on this trip. Travelers will need to bring their own lunch or purchase it during the stops at their own expense. The tour does not include any meals.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour does not offer any discounted pricing for seniors or children. The base price of $77.69 per person applies to all participants, regardless of age. There are no age-based discounts available for this full-day trip.

Can I Extend My Stay in Kurokawa Onsen After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Kurokawa Onsen after the tour. The tour doesn’t include entry fees for the onsen, so you’re free to stay and explore the hot springs village at your own pace after the guided portion ends.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Included in the Price?

The price includes transportation, guide services, and admission to the Aso Volcano Museum. However, the entry fee for Kurokawa Onsen is not included and must be paid separately at the onsen.

The Sum Up

This captivating full-day trip to Kyushu offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Explore the majestic Mt. Aso Volcano, learn about the serene Kurokawa Onsen, and visit the historic Aso Shrine. From the breathtaking grasslands to the mineral-rich hot springs, this journey showcases the best of Kyushu’s wonders, leaving you rejuvenated and inspired.

You can check availability for your dates here: