Fukuoka: Mount Aso Volcano, Kumamoto Castle, Grasslands Day Tour
Overview
Available languages
10 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience the raw beauty and cultural heritage of Kumamoto and Aso in this unforgettable adventure. Ideal for families, friends, and adventurers, this tour blends history, nature, and hands-on activities. Begin at the iconic Kumamoto Castle, a symbol of Japanese resilience, then journey to the active Nakadake Crater of Mount Aso for a rare glimpse into the Earth's fiery core. Explore the lush grasslands of Kusasenri and enjoy a horseback riding experience surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes. Dive deeper into the region's geology at the Aso Volcano Museum and savor local delicacies at the charming Aso Roadside Station. This tour offers a perfect mix of education, excitement, and scenic beauty—an authentic Japanese experience not to be missed!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
1.The itinerary may change if Aso Volcano issues a no-entry notice.
2.Weekend and holiday traffic in Japan may delay the return time past 9 p.m.Our company covers overtime fees for the guide and driver.To avoid issues, please don't schedule activities or transport afterward.Attraction times may also be shortened, adjusted, or canceled. Thankyou for your understanding.
3.From Mar.15th ,the departure time will advanced to 8:00 AM
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Driver service
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
Admission of Aso Volcano
Multilingual tour guide
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees
Pickup and drop off at Hakata station)
Food and drinks
Kumamoto Castle
What To Expect
Kumamoto Castle
08:00am, begin your journey by meeting at Lawson, Fukuoka Oriental Hotel ▼Your first stop: Kumamoto Castle. Spend approximately 110 minutes exploring this renowned landmark (admission: ¥800, not included). Recognized as one of Japan's "Three Great Castles," Kumamoto Castle was originally built by the famed castle builder Kato Kiyomasa in 1601. The iconic steep stone walls, known as "Musha-gaeshi," and the elegant Honmaru Goten Pavilion are just some of the sights that make this castle a must-visit. Don't miss the Kumamon Square, the office of Kumamoto’s famous bear mascot, "Kumamon," located nearby (about a 30-minute walk round trip). Take a stroll through Sakura-no-baba Josaien, a tourist area at the foot of the castle, featuring "Yuyuyuza" for cultural experiences and "Sakura Komichi" for local delicacies and souvenirs.
Mt. Aso Nakadake Crater
▼Mount Aso – Nakadake Crater Next, head to the active Nakadake Crater on Mount Aso, one of Japan’s most famous active volcanoes. Get an up-close look at the crater, where you can watch white plumes rise and experience the sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder. Note: The itinerary may change if crater access is restricted.
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Fukuoka: Mount Aso Volcano, Kumamoto Castle, Grasslands Day Tour
Reviews
27 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Disappointing day, make sure you check the weather forecast before booking
Colin L,
Oct 24, 2025
- Viator
2.00Our guide Carey was lovely and attentive. However our visit to the castle was disappointing as there was not sufficient time to see it properly. We then drove to the grasslands in poor weather to eat lunch at a roadside stop. Although the volcano museum was on the same site we did not have time to visit it. We then drove for a few minutes to the shuttle bus station for the crater. The access to the crater was closed. A very disappointing day all told, 6 hours on a bus for very little enjoyment. We felt sorry for Carey.
A day we'll-spent
Millie C,
Oct 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00The chaos of hundreds checking in for different tours in one location was easily and smoothly finalized with only-in-Japan precision. Our tour guide, Sun Nan, was passionate about sharing this tour, and accommodate each of us with our needs. He made sure we had the best spots for photos, and even walk us for special requests, suchas where the horse ride was located. This trip was full of ooohsand aaahs. Felt a bit rushed at the castle, especially since it's 6 flights after walking up to the entrance. However, i wouldn't sacrifice time at the other spots. Maybe 10.5 hours?
Castle, Volcano and Grasslands
Tamsin N,
Oct 3, 2025
- Viator
5.00We travelled 2 hours to visit the castle (which was enjoyable and had qr codes to get information in English) We then went on to the national park to see the volcano. We were fortunate as the area was closed when we arrived but reopened just in time for our viewing. It was amazing. We then went back to the grassland/shopping area. I had a tasty daal curry and naan. This is where you could do the horse riding. I was a bit disappointed as it was just a walk around a circle (for an additional charge) I thought the horse riding was part of the day’s activities. Our guide Seiki was friendly, funny and knowledgable. Thanks for an interesting day :)
Well done
Viacheslav R,
Oct 1, 2025
- Viator
5.00The tour went exactly as described. The excellent weather, the lack of latecomers, and the lack of traffic jams made for an exciting adventure. Special thanks to Thomas for his interesting stories, attentiveness, and sense of humor.
I was the only English...
Kelsey R,
Sep 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00I was the only English Speaker on the tour but the Guide (Lina) was so accommodating and did such a great job to make sure I got all the same info. Also, the views were amazing!
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Operated by Hotel Takitei