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13 Available Tour Excursions in Aso
This private tour starts off with you and your English-speaking guide heading to the highest point of the north caldera wall. Here we enjoy the jaw-dropping sight of the five peaks of Mt. Aso and the huge volcanic caldera. After getting a feel for the landscape of Aso we head to one of the small communities that exist in the vicinity of this huge volcano. Here we will explore the true Japanese countryside and meet some of the locals who live here. With their help, we will learn about life and culture in rural Japan, harvest vegetables, cook food, and enjoy a lunch together made from locally sourced ingredients! A true hands-on Japanese farm-to-table experience! This is a half-day tour that gives you the best of two worlds! The amazing scenery of Japan's largest active volcano, but also interaction with local culture! Come and enjoy some of the most beautiful landscapes and heartwarming hospitality that Japan has to offer!
Price: $159.35
Duration: 0-0 hours
We took a leisurely stroll through the village of Teno, which has a nostalgic, original Japanese landscape. After visiting Kokuzo Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Kumamoto Prefecture and known as a power spot, you will be amazed at the size of the natural monument, the "Great Cedar of Teno. Then we will have a delicious lunch with a farmer. You never knew vegetables could taste so good! The farmers' food and smiles are truly a healing experience.
Price: $119.51
Duration: 4 hours
Starting with a visit to our historic Aso Shrine, which has a history of more than 2000 years, you can discover the Japanese way of praying. Your guide will then take you to visit the adjacent Monzenmachi, one of the oldest streets in Aso; where many stores are lined up. You'll get to try out the mineral water springs and stroll along the tree covered avenue. After our lunch, we will visit the top of Mount Aso, where you can feel the breath of the earth. It is a real treat to experience our living earth, and how locals link their religion with the surrounding nature.
Price: $185.91
Duration: 5 hours
After meeting at the entrance of Aso Station, we start the tour with an introduction to Mt. Aso and our grasslands. Then, on to the gear: we’ll take our bicycles for a test before going our way. Beginners are welcome too, must you need help for the bicycle’s use, your guide will explain everything. No need for extreme bicycling skills, as they are electrically assisted! From the bottom of the caldera at Aso Station, at about 500 meter above sea level, to the Aso Nakadake crater (elevation 1,300m), there is an elevation difference of 800m. (2600ft) You then get to enjoy the best views of the mount Aso crater. Going back down, the caldera opens up in front of you. Aso's magnificent nature awaits you here. We’ll end our tour at the entrance of JR Aso Stn, unless you booked a ride to your accommodation. We can also guide you to a hot spring after the tour to unwind and relax in the caldera. *You can leave your luggage with us, so you can enjoy the grasslands of Aso at ease.
Price: $205.83
Duration: 4 hours
Aso's knowledgeable guides will take you on an easy-to-understand and enjoyable tour of the Aso Caldera from its birth to the present, from the perspectives of volcanoes, geology, history, culture, and beliefs. By walking down the stone-folded path that descends the northern outer rim of the mountain and entering the caldera on your own, you can really feel the size of the caldera, one of the largest in the world. You can also enjoy spots related to the history, culture, and beliefs of Aso, where people have lived in the caldera for over 2,000 years. On the way, we will have a tea time with yogurt and sweets grown in the grasslands of Aso.
Price: $185.91
Duration: 4 hours
Enjoy the sunrise and sea of clouds over the Aso Caldera while sipping a hot drink with special permission from the Millennium Grassland Observatory. Why not spend some time in Aso until breakfast at a special place only known to those in the know? On this tour, with special permission, we will take you to a special observation point in the "Millenium Grassland" that is normally inaccessible. Transportation to and from hotels and guesthouses in Aso City is also included, so you don't have to worry about transportation. Depending on the weather, you can enjoy a sea of clouds filling Aso Caldera in the "Millennium Grasslands". Beyond the sea of clouds, the Five Peaks of Mt.Aso lie as a reclining statue, a divine sight in Japan. Our baristas will guide you through the sunrise and the sea of clouds while offering you coffee, tea, and local tea brewed with spring water.
Price: $73.04
Duration: 2 hours
In the field of Aso, one of the world's largest calderas and a national park, you will participate in a variety of activities for three days to refresh your mind and body. Travel by car is kept to a minimum. We will use low-environmental-impact E-MTBs, horses, and your own feet to give you a solid feel for the nature and lifestyle of the Aso caldera. You can also enjoy wellness time with activities such as yoga and zazen. In addition, you will cleanse your body from the inside out by taking a bath in the free-flowing hot springs and eating healthy meals, mainly made with fresh vegetables.
Price: $1,460.72
Duration: 72 hours
This is a unique experience that gives you insight in both the natural and cultural history of the region. Apart from seeing the beauty of the scenery with your own eyes, you will also get to interact with locals and learn about the traditions and how they have lived in harmony with the environment. If you have a few extra hours to spend in the area and are looking for a deep and memorable experience in the outdoors, this is perfect for you.
Price: $106.23
Duration: 2 hours
Welcome to Aso! We aim to propose encounters with local farmers on this tour to make your Aso experience unforgettable. The Aso colored sheep are very much the future of Aso and the strawberry farm offers delicious fresh snacks from new year's till early summer. In addition, we'll enjoy bringing you to the best local restaurants so you'll be able to savor the Aso grown vegetables and locally produced food. Depending on the season, the produce and thus the tour's content will vary. We can customize this tour with different options for lunch, pick-up, and other add-on activities. Optional: - We can do the tour bicycling through the caldera, if you are up to some light exercise! - If you have mobility troubles we can organize the tour by car as well. Please feel free to ask, we can make the experience complete with accommodation and a special dinner as well.
Price: $149.39
Duration: 5 hours
On this tour, with special permission, we will take you to a special outdoor bar in the "Millennium Grassland" with no artificial light. Transportation to and from your hotel or guesthouse in Aso City is also included, so you don't have to worry about transportation. Depending on the weather, you can enjoy a starry sky at the Millennium Grassland. Our guide, who is knowledgeable about the starry skies of Japan's four seasons, will quietly introduce you to the constellations. Of course, quiet time is also available. While looking at the starlight that was emitted hundreds of thousands of years ago, before the Aso Caldera was formed, please think about the eternal past. We also offer local craft beer, wine, and hot drinks to make your Aso night the best it can be. (Up to one drink per person is included in the price. Additional charges apply.) After gazing at the starry sky, depending on the season, enjoy a digital detox around a bonfire and enjoy the night in the grasslands of Aso.
Price: $73.04
Duration: 2 hours
Gokuraku Zenji is one of the seven temples that protect the Aso Shrine, and has a history of over 450 years. You will spend a luxurious time to purify your mind and body with zazen meditation, where you empty your mind and just sit and look at yourself, and with healthy vegetarian food made with seasonal ingredients and care for the people who eat it. Although this is a famous temple with a long history, the monk will guide you very carefully, so even those who are not good at sitting on the floor or who have never experienced Zen meditation before can participate with ease. In addition, the vegetarian food, made with plenty of local ingredients, is a gem in appearance, taste, and volume. If sitting on the floor is not for you, you can also sit on a chair.
Price: $99.59
Duration: 2 hours
1. Freedom and Flexibility: 10 hours, no rigid schedules, personalized adventure, craft your own dream itinerary. 2. Access to Major Attractions. Explicitly names: Beppu, Yufuin, Mount Aso, Kusasenri – the key destinations users want. 3. Convenience and Comfort: Skip complicated trains and buses, door-to-door service, private vehicle, stress-free. 4. Overcoming Language Barrier: Your English-Speaking Guide on the Road, communicates clearly in English, Navigate Japan with ease. 5. Efficiency and Depth: Maximize your day, full 10 hours, deep, efficient exploration. 6. Target Audience: Clearly states suitability for groups, families, and cruise passengers. 7. Strong Call to Action: Book your hassle-free Kyushu adventure today!
Price: $927.00
Duration: 8-10 hours
● Enjoy the "Aka Beef BBQ" exquisite by Aka beef farmers ● Let's enjoy the blessings of nature raised in Aso in the open, magnificent view of Aso. ・You can enjoy the Aka beef barbecue, which is a special product of Aso, at the superb view spot of Aso, which is normally off-limits. ・A red beef farmer who manages this ranch and breeds red beef selects and cooks the meat. (*Cooking, if the schedule fits) ・The proceeds of the product will be used for activities such as field burning to protect the grasslands of Aso. ・You can also enjoy gorgeous aerial walks of Aso seen from the drone operated by the farmer wearing goggles.
Price: $44.69
Duration: 3 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, English (commonly spoken by tourists)
- Climate: Humid subtropical
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Approximately 27,000 residents
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic beauty.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries including the US, EU, and UK can enter Japan visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. Others may require a visa obtained in advance or an e-visa depending on nationality. Visa on arrival is generally not available. Travelers should check the latest Japanese immigration policies before travel.
About Aso
Aso is a captivating destination located in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and rich natural beauty. At its heart lies Mount Aso, an active volcano with one of the world’s largest calderas, offering visitors a rare chance to witness volcanic activity and explore rugged terrain. The region’s lush greenery, hot springs, and pastoral countryside create a serene escape from urban life. Aso’s unique blend of geological wonders and traditional Japanese culture makes it a compelling spot for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Visitors can enjoy hiking, hot spring bathing, and sampling local cuisine while experiencing the warmth of rural Japan. The area’s accessibility from major cities like Kumamoto and its well-preserved natural environment further enhance its appeal as a must-visit destination.
Aso Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Kumamoto Prefecture
- Duration Range: Custom Durations
- Group Size: Intimate Groups
- Difficulty Level: Mixed Difficulty
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic beauty. Pack layered clothing for variable mountain climates and sturdy shoes for outdoor activities. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet behavior in shrines. Stay updated on volcanic activity warnings for safety. Carry cash as some rural areas may not accept cards.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $55
Highest Price Tour: $250
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Mount Aso Crater – The iconic active volcano crater offering panoramic views and volcanic steam vents. 2. Kusasenri Plateau – A scenic grassland area perfect for walking and horse riding with views of the volcano. 3. Aso Shrine – A historic Shinto shrine with beautiful architecture and cultural significance. 4. Daikanbo Observatory – A viewpoint overlooking the caldera and surrounding mountains. 5. Aso Farm Land – A family-friendly park with animal encounters, hot springs, and local craft experiences.
Popular Activities
Visitors to Aso can engage in hiking around the caldera and volcano trails, horseback riding on the Kusasenri Plateau, and exploring the cultural heritage at Aso Shrine. Hot spring bathing in local onsen resorts offers relaxation after outdoor adventures. Seasonal activities include flower viewing in spring, autumn foliage tours, and winter snow sports. Photography, nature walks, and local craft workshops provide enriching experiences for all interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Aso’s cuisine highlights fresh local ingredients including Akaushi beef, a prized wagyu variety known for its tenderness and flavor. Traditional dishes feature mountain vegetables, river fish, and hearty stews. Visitors should try basashi (horse meat sashimi), a regional delicacy. Dining customs emphasize seasonal freshness and presentation. Noteworthy restaurants include local izakayas and specialty beef grills that showcase Aso’s culinary heritage.
Getting Around
Aso is accessible by train and bus from Kumamoto city, with local buses connecting key sites. The nearest major airport is Kumamoto Airport. Within Aso, taxis and rental cars are common for flexible travel. Walking and cycling are popular in scenic areas. Transportation costs are moderate, with regional passes available for tourists.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic beauty. Pack layered clothing for variable mountain climates and sturdy shoes for outdoor activities. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet behavior in shrines. Stay updated on volcanic activity warnings for safety. Carry cash as some rural areas may not accept cards.
Culture & Customs
Aso’s culture blends traditional Japanese rural life with volcanic heritage. Social customs include polite greetings, bowing, and respect for nature. Festivals such as the Aso Fire Festival celebrate local history and spirituality. Visitors should observe shrine etiquette and be mindful of quiet zones. Hospitality is warm, and engaging with locals is encouraged.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..