(Translated by Google) Ebino City, Miyazaki Prefecture is a station on the JR Kyushu Kichito Line, and as its name suggests, it is the entrance to the Kyomachi hot spring village by train. In fact, many people visit during the Kyomachi Futsukaichi market held in Kyomachi Onsenkyo in February. The station building has been rebuilt and is now beautiful, but like many local stations these days, it is now a bleak station with no atmosphere. The actual role of the station building appears to be played by the adjacent tourist exchange center. Bicycle parking is small. (Original) 宮崎県えびの市JR九州吉都線の駅で、その名の通り鉄道で京町温泉郷へ訪れるための入り口となる。実際に2月に京町温泉郷で開催される京町二日市の際には多くの人が訪れる。 駅舎が立て直され綺麗にはなったが、最近の地方の駅の例に漏れず、情緒のかけらもない殺風景な駅になった。実質的な駅舎としての役割は隣接する観光交流センターが担っている模様。 駐輪場は少な目。

(Translated by Google) When I stayed at a ryokan in Kyomachi Onsen, I went to see Kyomachi Onsen Station on an early morning walk around the hot spring town. It is a single-track, unmanned station with no station building or ticket gates. The tourist center was built in front of the station. I couldn't see the train due to time constraints. The scenery where the straight railway line is sucked into the mountains has a bit of charm. In my hometown, I don't take the train except for commuting, and I live in a car everywhere I go, so this itinerary was also by car. Perhaps that's why I have a bit of admiration for traveling by train on routes like this. (Original) 京町温泉の旅館に宿泊したときに早朝の温泉街の散策で京町温泉駅を見にきました。単線で無人駅で駅舎も改札もありません。駅前に建っているのは観光センターでした。時間が合わず電車を見ることはできませんでした。直線の線路が山に吸い込まれる景色にはちょっとした趣を感じます。 地元では通勤以外は電車に乗ることもなくどこに行くにもクルマ生活で今回の旅程もクルマ移動です。そのためかこのような路線の電車の旅には少し憧れがあります。

(Translated by Google) I visited here to practice my bike. The station building was new and very clean. There was a piano. (Original) バイクの練習で訪れました。駅舎が新しくとても綺麗でした。ピアノがありました。

(Translated by Google) I visited in April 2003. At that time, it was a normal station. I ate lunch and took a break in an empty station waiting room. (Original) 2003年4月に訪れました。その頃は普通の駅でした。誰もいない駅の待合室で昼飯を食べて休憩しました。

(Translated by Google) It's usually a quiet station, but today it's very busy because "Kyomachi Futsukaichi 2019.2.2-2.3" is being held. We are currently renovating our home. Number of passengers: 69 per day (not including passengers getting off) (Original) 普段は静かな駅ですが、今日は「京町二日市2019.2.2～2.3」が開催されていますので大変な賑わいです。現在ホームを改修中です。乗車人員は69人/日（降車客含まず）

(Translated by Google) It is an unmanned station with a retro feel. I visited on a weekday and it was quiet. The platforms and stations were kept well-cleaned. Next time I would like to visit a hot spring when touring. (Original) レトロな感じの無人駅です 平日訪問で閑散としていましたが ホームや駅は綺麗に掃除が行き届いてました 今度はツーリング時に温泉も来たいと思います

(Translated by Google) The empty, unmanned station remains the same. The location of the station has moved slightly and is now new. large parking lot beautiful facility clean toilet Space to shelter from the rain and wind some types of vending machines For some reason, piano lol Access to the Sanroku Line will be wider and cleaner, making it safer for pedestrians. Please note that the direction of the stop sign has changed from before! Rumor has it that people were getting arrested for not stopping at one point, probably because the stop sign was in a very high position. After that, the stop sign was lowered. lol lol Everyone, please stop for safety reasons. ₍₍( ´ ᵕ ` *)⁾⁾ (Original) 何もない無人駅っていうのは、あい変わらず 駅の位置が若干移動し、新しくなりました 広い駐車場 綺麗な施設 清潔なトイレ 雨風しのげるスペース いく種類かの自販機 なぜか、ピアノ 笑笑 山麓線へのアクセスが、広くなって綺麗になって、歩行者には安心できるかと 止まれの標識の向きが昔と変わったのが、注意点！ 止まれの標識が一時期、非常ーーーに高い位置にあったせいか、「一時不停止」で捕まってたという噂 その後、止まれの標識の位置が低くなってました 笑笑 みなさん、安全のためにもしっかりと止まりましょうね ₍₍( ´ ᵕ ` *)⁾⁾

Apparently quite a famous and old shrine. We waited about 15 minutes to pray on Jan 5. There's a modern little museum attached for an extra ¥500. There are toilets as well. The thatched roof is interesting.

Visited on a scorching summer weekend — the heat was intense. There were a few tourists around, most came to pray quickly and left right after. I didn’t stay long either, just enough time to take some photos. The shrine has a beautiful traditional structure, with a unique thatched roof (like woven hay — not something you see every day!) and a striking red torii gate at the entrance. It feels historic and sacred, even in the heat. Would love to come back when it’s cooler to take my time exploring.

Nice shrine. Great pond and lotus plants in front. Nice bridge photo moment.

A historical place over 1200 years, not big but it is worth a visit

Peaceful and sacred beauty.

Can't go into the building as priests are only allowed in.

Beautiful temple in Kumamoto Prefecture.

Was expecting more ruins. Or at least more to see. Large stone stairs claiming to the top of where the castle was. Views were not so good.

Though the castle itself was destroyed in the early Meiji era, we were so impressed with its great stone wall, which was great enough for us to imagine the old age.

Remote place, but so calm and quiet, slow walk and feel the atmosphere of ancient time.

Good way to knowing Japan history

(Translated by Google) I came here in October 2025 as part of the 100 Famous Castles Stamp Rally. The stamps are available just inside the Hitoyoshi Castle History Museum. The castle is located at the confluence of the Kuma River and the Munekawa River, and uses these rivers as a moat. Highlights include the protruding stone walls and the Mizunotemon Gate, which was built to allow water transportation on the Kuma River, and is said to be rare even nationwide. A 5-10 minute climb up the stone steps will take you to the remains of the main castle. There aren't any particularly notable buildings left, but it was a very nice castle ruin. (Original) 2025年10月に100名城スタンプラリーで来ました。スタンプは人吉城歴史館の入ってすぐのところに置いてあります。 球磨川と胸川の合流点に位置していて、これらの川を堀として利用したお城です。見どころは石垣のはね出しや、球磨川を水運に利用するための水ノ手門が挙げられ、これらは全国的に見ても珍しいようです。 石段を5〜10分ほど登ると本丸跡まで行くことができます。特段建物が残っていたりする訳ではないのですが、とても良い城跡でした。

(Translated by Google) ☆Japan's 100 Greatest Castles☆ 10/20/2025 Located in the center of Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture, this unusual castle was ruled by the Sagara clan for nearly 700 years. Built from the Muromachi period through the Edo period, it offers a glimpse of the castle's past through each era. As the site of the Seinan War, most of the buildings were burned down, leaving only Sagara Gokoku Shrine standing. The stone walls feature a "musha-gaeshi" (a type of samurai guardrail) built using Western castle-building techniques. This type of samurai guardrail can only be seen at Hakodate Goryokaku, Tatsuoka Castle Goryokaku, and Shinagawa Battery. Due to time constraints, I wasn't able to visit the remains of the main keep on the mountain, but even just walking around the stone walls and castle grounds at the base was enjoyable. It was a wonderful castle that I'd like to return to. (Original) ☆日本100名城☆ 25.10.20 熊本県人吉市の中心、700年近く相良氏によって治められたという珍しい城。室町時代から江戸時代にかけて造営されており、時代ごとの城の姿が見られる。 西南戦争の舞台だったため建物はほとんど焼失して残っておらず、相良護国神社が建っているくらい。石垣は西洋築城技術のはね出し工法による武者返しが見られる。はね出し工法の武者返しは函館五稜郭と龍岡城五稜郭、品川台場でしか見られない。 山城部分の本丸跡地には時間の関係で行けなかったが、麓の石垣や城域を歩くだけでも楽しい。また来たいと思える素晴らしい城だった。

(Translated by Google) 1. Visit Hitoyoshi Castle to get the 93rd stamp on Japan's 100 Famous Castles. 2. While only the castle ruins remain, there's plenty to see along the road. 3. Surprisingly, foreign tour buses are a frequent sight. 4. The stamp is located at the entrance to the Hitoyoshi Castle History Museum. (Original) 1. 일본 100명성 93번 히토요시성 스탬프를 찍기 위해 방문 2. 성터만 남아있는 상태이나 길을 따라 들어가면 꽤 구경할 것이 있음 3. 의외로 외국인 관광버스가 자주 보임 4. 스탬프는 히토요시성 역사 박물관 현관에 있음

In a middle of nowhere, here it is... a little onsen and its very smily owner. This onsen saved my day, I really thought I was going to sleep in my car all dirty, after a day of intense exploration. The water is surprisingly soft, and there are many tables and sofas if you need to rest a bit (or work, like me).

This is actually a 3 star onsen, just because the water quality is average, but I gave it 4 stars because it's the only onsen in the area.

(Translated by Google) A hot spring facility located in Nishimera Village. This hot spring ♨️ is gentle on the skin and has a thick consistency ♨️ The deer meat served at the restaurant has no odor at all and is delicious, and the Nishimera salmon bowl is exquisite! ️ It's so delicious that you can only eat it here! A place where you can relax if you can hold a family bath Recommended for those who want to take their time even if it's far away! It is said that it will be crowded on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. If you have a car 🚗, we recommend going on weekdays! This is a place that people from other prefectures should definitely visit. Recommended for those who have skin problems. My hands were getting rough and my atopic dermatitis was getting worse! Although it is far from the city of Miyazaki Prefecture, it is worth the trip. Houzuki is also famous. Many of the souvenirs are yuzu! It's a place you can go to if you have a car 🚗. (Original) 西米良村にある温泉施設。 こちらの温泉♨️がお肌に優しくとろみのある温泉♨️ お食事ところのシカのお肉も全く臭みがなく美味しくて、西米良サーモン丼が絶品‼️ ここでしか食べられないくらい美味しいです！ 家族風呂もおさえられればゆっくりできる場所 遠くてもゆっくり時間を設けたい方におすすめです！土日祝日は混雑するとのこと。 車🚗があれば平日行くのがオススメです！ 他県の方もぜひ行っていただきたい場所。 お肌に悩みのある方は是非オススメ。 手荒れ、アトピーひどくていきました！ 宮崎県市内からは距離はありますが行く価値あります。 ホウズキも有名。お土産はゆずのものが多いです！ 車🚗あれば行ける場所です。

(Translated by Google) Staying time 10:00~11:45 Visited for the first time to enjoy the sauna and was excited about the hot spring facility in the mountains. Although the sauna is small, it has three tiers, so the upper tier has a good temperature. The water bath is full of about 2 people. There is a streamlined chaise lounge in the outdoor air bath, which is very comfortable! It was a nice facility where you can enjoy hot springs and saunas. (Original) 滞在時間10:00~11:45 サウナを楽しむため初訪問、山の中の温泉施設にワクワク。 サ室は狭いながら3段になっているので上段はよい温度。 水風呂は2人ほどでいっぱい。 外気浴には流線形の寝椅子があって とても気持ちがいい！ 温泉とサウナが楽しめるいい施設でした。

(Translated by Google) It was a simmering hot water. Adult 500 yen [River Hot Spring] Large indoor bath (some places have bubbles) Indoor bath (warmer than large) Sauna (with TV) Water bath (chimete) Washing area (rinse-in shampoo, body soap, soap included) Open-air bath (one of the larger ones, but with different depths) Changing room (locker for putting 100 yen in, toilet, tissue, hair dryer, drinking fountain available) Where to eat ・Salmon fried rice bowl (large serving) ・Deer minced meat cutlet (apparently it also contains wild boar) Get a little discount at Gibier Fair until 3/30/2025 (Delicious and filling♪) It's not open between lunch and evening, so it might be a good idea to check it out later. For payment, bring the slip to the front desk. (Original) とろとろの湯でした 大人500円 [川の湯] 内風呂大(泡出てる所あり) 内風呂中(大よりぬるめ) サウナ(テレビあり) 水風呂(ちめてー) 洗い場(リンスインシャンプー　ボディーソープ　石鹸あり) 露天風呂(大きいの一つ　でも深さが違う) 脱衣場(100円入れて帰ってくるロッカー　トイレ　ティッシュ　ドライヤー　水飲み場あり　) 御食事どころ ・サーモンのからあげ丼(大盛) ・鹿メンチカツ（猪も入ってるらしい） ジビエフェアで2025/3/30まで少しお得 (おいしくてお腹いっぱい♪) お昼と夕方の間やってないので確認してからがいいかもです お会計はフロントまで伝票を持ってくタイプ

(Translated by Google) Visited 2024/2. I stopped by on my way from Saitoshi to Kumamoto. I didn't go to the hot springs, but I liked the food so much that I ate there both at noon and at night on the same day (lol). The Nishimaira salmon bowl was delicious with the flavor of ginger, shiso leaves, and small onions added to the fatty salmon.I ordered a large portion for an additional 100 yen. Morinoko set meal includes bamboo shoots, shiitake mushrooms, and chicken nanban. It was my first time to try Nanban with bamboo shoots and shiitake mushrooms, but it also came with homemade tartar sauce and was delicious! The cutlets in the cutlet curry and katsudon are also very filling! Not only was it delicious, but the large amount of rice made me feel very full. For an additional 100 yen, you can add miso soup to your rice bowl, etc., and the piping hot dagojiru (miso soup with dumplings) warmed me to the core. What really made me happy was that the cold food was delicious. Usually when I eat out, I'm worried about the smell of chlorine, but the water here was delicious♪ I thought that because the water was delicious, the food was also delicious! The staff were attentive, disinfecting the tables, pouring water, and making us feel at ease. The hot springs also have a good reputation, so I would like to take my time and enjoy them next time! (Original) 2024/2訪問。 西都市から熊本へ行く途中に寄りました。温泉には入らなかったのですが、食事が気に入り過ぎて、同じ日の昼と夜、こちらで食事しました(笑) 西米良サーモン丼は、脂さっぱりのサーモンに、ミョウガと大葉と小ネギの風味が加わって美味しかったです♪+100円で大盛りにしました。 森の子定食は、筍、しいたけ、鶏の南蛮。筍やしいたけの南蛮は初めてだったけど、手作りのタルタルソースも付いてこれも美味しかった！ カツカレー、カツ丼のカツもしっかり食べごたえあり！美味しいだけでなく、ごはんの量多めでお腹がとても満たされました♪ +100円で丼等にもお味噌汁がつけられるのですが、熱々のだご汁(団子入りのお味噌汁)で身体の芯から温まりました。 地味に嬉しかったのが、お冷が美味しかったこと。大抵、外食するとカルキの匂いが気になるけど、ここのお水は美味しかったです♪お水が美味しいから食事も美味しいのかなーと思いました！ スタッフの方達も、テーブルの消毒をしたり、水を注ぎに来てくれたり、気配りが行き届いていて気持ち良く過ごすことができました。 温泉も評判が良いので、今度はゆっくり満喫したいと思います！

(Translated by Google) The view was great, and the thick water was very pleasant. The view from the open-air bath was wide, and I took a deep breath while looking at the mountain ridges and the blue sky. It was a quiet and nice place. I also became friends with the kind lady and asked her for recommendations on places to visit in Nishimera Village. I was touched by the kindness and love of the local people. (Original) 見晴らしもよく、トロトロの湯質で大変気持ちよかったです。露天風呂の視界も広く山の稜線と青空をみながら深呼吸しました。静かでいいところ。また親切ならおばさまとお友達になり西米良村のおすすめスポットを伺いました。地元の方のやさしさ地元愛にほっこりでした。

Forbidden to tattoo foreigners. For local rules reasons …. Whatever that means Got EV charger! #timetowakeupjpn

I go to this onsen quite often. The water is great. Nice outdoor baths over looking the river. The sauna they have is good. And the cold water bath is super deep! One of the hot water baths is also really deep!

Great outside and inside facility. I go regularly and feel great. It is not tattoo friendly, but covering small tattoos doesn’t seem to bother anyone.

Nice indoor, outdoor bath and sauna. Good quality water which leaves your skin soft and your body relaxed.

Water temperature is just perfect 👌. The rooms are a bit small though. Family bath is 2300 yen.

足湯は無料♪ Lucky( ^-^)ノ∠※。.:*:・'°☆

(Translated by Google) The scenery is very nice, and the forest scenery changes with the seasons, which is very relaxing. The menu at the restaurant is plentiful and delicious, and there is also a well-stocked store selling souvenirs and locally produced foods. I wondered why there was a roadside station in such a place, but Japan's tallest stone steps are relatively close by, and it seemed like there were many tourists, not just locals, who were driving or touring. The hot spring was also very pleasant, but I felt that it was a little small considering the large site. It was a bit disappointing that there were so many customers. (Original) 景観がとても良く、季節によって森の景色もかわりとても安らぎます。食堂のメニューも豊富で美味しく、土産物や地産地消の食料品などの売り場も充実してました。こんな所に道の駅が、、と思いますが、日本一の石段が比較的近くにあり、地元民だけでなく、ドライブやツーリングなど観光客も多そうな感じでした。温泉もとても気持ちよかったですが、広い敷地の割にやや温泉は狭かったかなという印象でした。お客さんも多いのでそこはちょっと残念でした。

I came here in the evening after visiting the castle. It is obviously built for tourists so prices can be a bit higher here. But also you will be able to find unique food like horse meat here, and also omiyage from the Kumamoto region. Was not crowded because I arrived quite late.

The food here is low quality and expensive. It is better to come here after having a meal at the nearby mall's food court. Definition of a tourist trap. But you can still enjoy the scenery and old aesthetic without buying any food. The Kumamoto Castle ticketing area is here too, you can buy tickets and ticket packages for the castle and museums. This area feels too commercialized, lacking many of the traditional feeling. You can also print a Kumamoto Castle coin with engraving for 630 yen

Not a big area. Mainly restaurants. One gift shop. Walking around here takes 10 mins unless you go for the VR or wearing costumes to walk around and take pictures. Enjoy the ancient feel with the architectural style.

Sakura-no-baba Josaien, a lively castle town square at the foot of Kumamoto Castle, where visitors can enjoy local cuisine, traditional crafts, and cultural performances.

One of nice spots to visit when you are visiting Kumamoto Castle, it is near the castle, and close to bus stop that will take you back to the town. Here, there are lots of local shops and restaurants.

Visited in July 2025 Back in the day, the site was a stable for the troops stationed in the castle. But now the days of horse transportation is long gone and it has been repurposed as a tourist center. The Wakuwakuza museum is inside the complex as well. Due to the absence of any real food courts or shopping centers nearby and around the castle area (the city's major shopping arcade is 500+ meters away), the price of the foods here are way more expensive, borderline tourist trap level even. That being said, there are some items I found interesting. For instance, there is one stall that sells anything horse meat, from croquette, sausage on skewer, and even sushi. Forgot to ask whether the latter is grilled or raw horse meat on sushi rice (seems to be on the former). Another sells some Kumamon-shaped cake with some filling. AFAIK there's one shuttle bus running between the place and Kumamoto Station.

This place could get busy at times, specially on weekend where there are many tourists but it is still tolerable. The place is nice and has different stores that offer food and drinks. I particularly love the matcha store there. Offers great variety of food and has available seats on the side. Local sellers are welcoming and very kind. At times, there are presentations in the morning and afternoon, I am not so sure about the schedule and if it is something seasonal. I believe local sellers are used to meeting foreigners and despite the fact that most of them dont speak English, they still try to be patient and warm. I have not tried the restaurants there but will try my best to visit it next time. Added some photos at night

A beautiful and well-maintained Japanese garden, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The landscape is carefully designed, featuring a large pond, traditional tea houses, and a miniature representation of the Tokaido road, including a small Mt. Fuji. The garden reflects the beauty of Japanese aesthetics, with seasonal flowers adding to its charm. The entrance fee is 400 yen as of March 2025. A great spot to take a relaxing stroll, enjoy and admire the harmony of nature. Enjoy 😎🙏🧘🧘‍♀️

Visited on a rainy morning so enjoyed a quieter atmosphere with fewer tourists. A lovely Japanese garden with two shrines and many stores inside, but not that different from otherJapanese gardens if you had visited them elsewhere.

A very nice and quite beautiful park overall. The scenery is lovely and it’s a pleasant place to walk around, but it does feel a bit small for the 400 yen entrance fee. It’s also a shame to see some buildings inside that are run-down or closed — they clearly have a lot of potential if restored. Still, it’s an enjoyable visit, just not as impressive as it could be.

I went here to relax after a long day. It’s a quiet park with lots of benches around the lake. There aren’t many people around. There’s a shrine inside and some small torii gates. The lake has a lot of fish as well. I saw many cherry trees, so this park must be even more beautiful during cherry blossom season. Entrance fee for adult is 400yen.

A very well-preserved garden. You can also enjoy the “water of longevity” inside the shrine in the garden.

It is a place you would like to enjoy, quiet. Not too many people, enjoy the peace and meditation. But for some people maybe boring, but it is only 10-15 minutes by tram, it worth to go in my opinion.

A beautiful garden with a shrine inside. It was very quiet with few visitors on a weekday, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the views

The castle is quite beautiful, but so is many other castles around Japan. While the constructed elevated walkway does take away from the historic look and feel, it does however give a different vantage point to the ground path. There are still many spots where the earthquake damage is “preserved”. The tourist facilities are very well laid out and most staff can speak basic English, and restaurant and snacks stalls are a bit expensive but reasonable for a tourist spot. Worth a visit if you are already coming to Kumamoto, but I wouldn’t bother travelling long distance just to see the castle.

Kumamoto Castle looks beautiful from the outside and the reconstruction after the 2016 earthquake is impressive. Inside it feels modern, more like a museum about the castle than a place showing how it once looked. There are no traditional rooms or old interiors like in Himeji. There’s also a separate Castle Museum but it can be skipped since the main castle already explains most of the history and the rebuilding process. Great to see from the outside, but not the old Japan vibe I expected.

Admission fee 800yen for castle only. There is an app called the KumaCastle which they encouraged you to download. Very easy to use. U can use the app to scan the QR code in each station for a more thorough briefing. Learnt that this castle got affected by the earthquake on 2016 and restoration is still in progress. Looking at how they went on to preserve something so worthy of the effort is heartwarming. Not boring. It’s educational and it’s informative for both adults and kids.

Visiting Kumamoto Castle was one of the most peaceful and moving experiences of my trip to Japan. As I walked toward the castle, the grand black-and-white towers rose above the trees, standing proudly against the sky. Even from a distance, I could feel the strength and spirit of the place. Inside the castle grounds, time seemed to slow down. The stone walls, carefully rebuilt after the earthquake, carry stories of courage and endurance. I found myself pausing often—just to breathe in the quiet air and imagine what life was like centuries ago. It’s amazing how a place that has faced so much destruction can still stand with such dignity and grace. Walking along the pathways lined with old trees, I felt surrounded by both history and hope. The sunlight filtering through the leaves gave the whole place a warm glow, and for a moment, I felt completely at peace. There was no rush, no noise—only the soft sounds of the wind and my own footsteps. Kumamoto Castle reminded me that beauty often comes from strength, and peace can exist even after hardship. I left the castle feeling calm, inspired, and deeply grateful. It is more than just a historic site—it is a symbol of resilience and quiet power. If you ever visit Kumamoto, take time to stand still within those walls and let the spirit of the castle speak to you.

A very well preserved historical monument, and very cleverly and sensitively remodelled to include visual and static exhibits, including modern amenities like walking paths and ramps, and elevators and toilets. Becoming a user friendly and accessible place for everyone. The visual displays and video documentary present very detailed historical and rehabilitation backgrounds, making the visit very interesting and educational.

As the billboards make me believe, construction will carry on until the 2030s. Or even 2050s as another sign seems to say. While renovations are not a bad thing, I feel they could have been made less impactful for visitors. Even just walking around the castle is annoying. I am so glad that Kumamoto is only a stopover and we didn't come here for the castle. The late afternoon light, just before sunset, was quite lovely though. And the lights at night (from our hotel room) are nice too. (Last admission is 4pm, if you want to get inside.)

Very well-organised and easy to navigate. The staff, ticketing, and crowd flow were all managed smoothly, making the visit comfortable even with many visitors. The castle grounds are impressive and the restoration work is beautifully done. Worth a visit!

Located near the castle, this shrine is a peaceful and historically significant site, dedicated to Katō Kiyomasa, the samurai lord who built Kumamoto Castle in the early 17th century. It’s a quiet place to take a break from the crowds and enjoy a bit of history and culture. The atmosphere is serene, and the shrine grounds are well maintained. A good place to visit if you're already exploring the castle area.

a very wonderful shrine. vibrant color, beautiful trees, also offer a very special view of kumamoto castle. if you are luckier, you could observe the weeding ceremony being hold upstairs for the japanese. the tori gate and the tree is gorgeous

Kumamoto Castle was not open, but you can have a close look at this shrine nearby. It also has several Kumamoto bears.

Visited in 2.4.2025. Amazing view of Kumamoto castle from here. It sells cute Omamori and some beautiful golden plate of Kumamoto Castle. Super cute Kumamon in Samurai outfit. Toilet is clean.

A beautiful, quiet shrine with a view of Kumamoto Castle. It takes a bit of time to reach because of the ongoing renovations around the castle.

Nice and quiet place but maybe less attraction places have better photo spots for Kumamoto castle

Has a beautiful view of the castle, cherry blossoms leading up to it, and is available to visit during the evening as well for a good view of the illuminated castle. The shrine itself is also beautiful and they have nice goshuin.

A must-visit natural wonder in Kyushu — perfect for families and photo lovers! Takachiho Gorge is one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in Japan. The walking path along the gorge is well maintained, making it a great experience for both adults and kids. You can enjoy stunning views of the cliffs, waterfalls, and lush greenery from multiple angles — it’s very photogenic, even from the ground level! The boat ride is definitely a bonus highlight, offering a unique view of the famous Manai Falls from the water. However, it’s quite hard to make an advance reservation, and same-day tickets can have a waiting time of up to 4 hours. If you want to try the boats, arrive early in the morning (around opening time) to secure a slot. For parking, I highly recommend Takachiho-kyo Dai San Ohashi Parking Lot (高千穂峡第3大橋駐車場). It’s free and provides a scenic walk to the gorge area — a perfect warm-up before you start exploring. Overall, this place is absolutely worth the trip — peaceful, scenic, and family-friendly. Even if you skip the boats, walking through the gorge and taking in the views is an unforgettable experience.

Do you like rivers? Do you like valleys? Do you like getting away from the big city? Do you like feeling secluded? This place is beautiful. It's not just the boat ride, there is so much to see. There are shrines, waterfalls, restaurants, etc. all in the area. The walk to boat's is a bit far so anticipate a good 20 minute walk. You can't actually row too far in the boats so don't worry, it's very safe and suitable for little children. Also, remember, TAKE A DEEP BREATH. smell the air. It's what real air smells like. :)

Chan Brothers Tour – 23 November 2025 After a delightful lunch at Aoshima Garden Dining, we continued our journey to explore the serene beauty of this region. The atmosphere was calm and refreshing, with gentle breezes carrying the scent of nature. Our next stop was a picturesque gorge, where the scenery unfolded like a painting—lush greenery, rugged cliffs, and the soothing sound of cascading water. We spent time near the little waterfalls, enjoying the tranquil rhythm of nature and even tried a bit of baiting along the clear streams. It was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, a reminder of how simple moments in nature can create lasting memories.

What an absolute wonder! One of the most beautiful places I've ever seen with my eyes. It's surreal to see it in real life and pictures just don't do this place justice. It is quite crowded with tourists but it's worth it. As usual if you get in early you'll beat most of the crowd. There's places to sit and enjoy food near the gorge which has a beautiful seating area with a pond and some huge fish. And I can't believe this was all free! Do yourself a favour if you're travelling through Japan you need to hire a car to really take in the beauty of this country. Half the fun is getting to the destination and being amazed by the scenery.

Beautiful. Feels like a step into a fantasy world. Lots of boats bumping into each other, so that doesn't look like much fun. And I'm inclined to believe that the view is better from up top too. And it's free, except for the parking. Also, the weather can be so unpredictable (in November). I wouldn't want to be booked/paid and be 'forced' to go when it's pouring with rain. Yesterday was miserable; today wonderful. Finding parking is a challenge. See my review where we parked.

Gorgeous place to visit. definitely will want a car to get there. if you don’t get a rental boat, don’t stress you can still admire the gorge without it. super pretty views. couple cute shops and places to eat. definitely recommend for a day trip if you can; i spent around 2-2.5 hours there and stayed in the area for the Kagura

Gorgeous! We missed out on the boats but honestly didn’t even feel like we needed it. Some of the most unique rock structures and a stunning gorge. We visited in autumn which seems to be the best time to see it with the maple leaves raining into the gorge with some great photo ops from the bridge overlooking the waterfall. The koi and chozame in the ponds are huge too!

A popular spot near Takachiho Gorge, featuring a modest shrine. Although it requires some uphill walking from the gorge, it's accessible. Parking is convenient, except on holidays.

While Takachiho Shrine may not be the most tourist-friendly spot in terms of signage or facilities, the atmosphere more than makes up for it. Nestled in a quiet forested area, the grounds are peaceful, shaded, and deeply spiritual. The towering ancient trees surrounding the shrine give it a mystical charm that’s hard to describe — you can truly feel the weight of history here. It’s the kind of place that invites stillness and reflection, far from the usual crowds. If you’re looking to experience the more serene and spiritual side of Japan, Takachiho Shrine is well worth a visit — just come prepared for a more self-guided and introspective experience.

Takachiho shrine is close to the gorge and is a very well kept, small shrine. You’re not likely to stay long; but it makes for a pleasant experience while on the way to the main attraction.

One of the many Shinto shrines in Takachiho. All are so plain yet so unique. Tucked away in the huge trees gives such a serene feeling.

A very beautiful shrine with a serene atmosphere. It’s much larger than other shrines and features an 800-year-old sacred tree. I’ll definitely visit again in the future.

Free parking and easy to access, I love the small lanterns <3 many people went to pray. Seems like a warm and prosperous place

I had the privilege of visiting Takachiho Shrine, a breathtaking experience. The lush greenery surrounding the shrine is nothing short of divine. I was awestruck by the towering cedars that stood sentinel around the shrine, their grandeur, and majesty a testament to the power of nature. The atmosphere is incredibly calm and peaceful, making it the perfect haven for those seeking solace and tranquility. The beauty of the shrine and its surroundings is simply stunning, and I felt a deep sense of connection to nature and the divine. If you're seeking a place to unwind, reflect, and rejuvenate your spirit, Takachiho Shrine is a must-visit destination. Its natural beauty and serene ambiance will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

We weren't prepared to collect the spring water! Haha but this was a nice place to visit in the morning. There are empty, clean bottles for sale to let visitors collect spring water if they like. Saw some lovely hydrangeas before we left.

Serene quiet place with natural drinkable spring water. I’m not sure why but there was absolutely no one there when I arrived (6 PM, May 12th) but it made the entire place feel mystical and magical 🥰 Entrance donation of 100 JPY suggested, very cheap and reasonable for the state of the place and the items provided(ladle, water filling station, etc.). You can fill your own water bottles and bring home, everything was closed when I got there so couldn’t buy bottles which was fine. I don’t drink enough water usually to know the difference in taste but I’ve heard it tastes divine! Highly suggest to stop by if you’re nearby! 🥰❤️

It is what it is. Pretty much as the reviews say. You visit the spring and fill up bottles of water. For me personally it was on my way anyway and the water bottles are a very cheap but quite nice personal gift. So yeah. I wouldn't make a special trip to visit though. There's a couple other shops like a crystal shop that has some massive crystals the size of a person if your in to that but it's kinda random. And there's some honesty stalls with a few vegetables that look rather nice. The water tastes like water. It's not strong flavoured it's very mild but theres nothing wrong with it. If your gonna get a few bottles like I did then don't forget that water is heavy 😅

100 yen per person for five star all you can drink/fill water from a freshwater spring out of the base of the volcano Mount Aso, what more could you want? The cold, fresh water is so delicious on a hot summer's day like this one. It is worth a visit if you are passing through the south side of Mount Aso. It's very interesting to also see the water source of a freshwater spring like this. The area is very well kept and there is also a nice shrine to visit.

Very refreshing. Don't forget to bring your own bottle to fill up some water or you can buy empty bottle at the entrance.

Shirakawa spring water is delicious. Let’s hope I don’t get diarrhoea the next day.

Very cool spot on a hot summers day, beautiful running water and lovely shade from the tree canopy

Easy 100m walk from parking area. Well kept shrine which smelled really lovely. There’s water to purify / good luck ; try to get free parking which is nearby rather than paying 500 yen to park at the entrance of the shrine

Nice and tranquil wooden shrine amongst tall lush trees. The shrine gate is in the middle of the path and you can continue through the path to exit on the other side where you can find the path to the famous shrine in the cave.

This was a wonderful and relaxing tour! SELINA with JTR , was wonderful tour guide , there is also a shrine nearby with rabbits and chickens etc. The meals offered were good also!

When you visit places like this you almost feel like it's a dream as no way beautiful places like this actually exist. Being by water and nature makes it so calming even amongst a group.

Amanoiwato shrine is a cool shrine located in a cave. Easy & short walk towards the shrine.

10 minute walk from the parking to see this masterpeice the views surronding this Torei are epic.

Beautiful! This shrine is believed to be where Amaterasu (Japanese creation story goddess) hid herself in a cave. Be aware that to see one area, you must go in with the priest and whatever group is currently amassed there. There are NO pictures allowed once you pass through the small gate, as it is a sacred area. You can walk about 10 minutes past the shrine to see another area surrounded by rock piles, and photos are fine there. It’s a nice walk through a forest and along a small river. There is a small, free parking lot, but it seems to fill up quickly.

Easy 100m walk from parking area. Well kept shrine which smelled really lovely. There’s water to purify / good luck ; try to get free parking which is nearby rather than paying 500 yen to park at the entrance of the shrine

Nice and tranquil wooden shrine amongst tall lush trees. The shrine gate is in the middle of the path and you can continue through the path to exit on the other side where you can find the path to the famous shrine in the cave.

This was a wonderful and relaxing tour! SELINA with JTR , was wonderful tour guide , there is also a shrine nearby with rabbits and chickens etc. The meals offered were good also!

When you visit places like this you almost feel like it's a dream as no way beautiful places like this actually exist. Being by water and nature makes it so calming even amongst a group.

Amanoiwato shrine is a cool shrine located in a cave. Easy & short walk towards the shrine.

10 minute walk from the parking to see this masterpeice the views surronding this Torei are epic.

Beautiful! This shrine is believed to be where Amaterasu (Japanese creation story goddess) hid herself in a cave. Be aware that to see one area, you must go in with the priest and whatever group is currently amassed there. There are NO pictures allowed once you pass through the small gate, as it is a sacred area. You can walk about 10 minutes past the shrine to see another area surrounded by rock piles, and photos are fine there. It’s a nice walk through a forest and along a small river. There is a small, free parking lot, but it seems to fill up quickly.

Visiting Aso Volcano was one of the most thrilling experiences of my life. It was my first time seeing a volcano up close, and the sense of excitement and wonder stayed with me from the moment I arrived until long after I left. Located in Kumamoto Prefecture, Mount Aso is not only Japan’s largest active volcano but also one of the most spectacular natural sights I have ever encountered. The vast caldera, stretching across the landscape, is truly impressive. As I approached the viewing area, I could see steam rising from the crater, a powerful reminder of the earth’s energy beneath my feet. The smell of sulfur filled the air, adding to the raw and mysterious atmosphere. Standing there, surrounded by rugged terrain and shifting clouds, I felt both small and deeply connected to nature. The surrounding area was equally beautiful, with green hills, open grasslands, and small villages that seem to coexist peacefully with this mighty volcano. I also appreciated the clear safety precautions in place, such as restricted zones and alert systems, which allowed me to enjoy the visit with confidence. Aso Volcano left me with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the power and beauty of our planet. I would highly recommend this destination to anyone who loves nature, adventure, and unique landscapes. Seeing a volcano so closely for the first time was an awe-inspiring experience that I will treasure forever.

Beautiful 😍 and unfortunately we couldn't visit the volcano Crater because of sulphuric gas on excessive level.

The mountain was very nice but I couldn’t see the crater since there was the eruption warning🥲

Amazing scenery, two very diverse landscapes volcanic one super raw, with ash and rocks, and super green with amazing fields of grass. Many routes to hike, many places to get lost, Few shuttle bus stops where You can refill Your food and drinks. Definitely recommended for hiking

Mount Aso is a breathtaking destination that’s both easily accessible by car and remarkably well maintained. The scenic drive up to the mountain is an experience in itself, and the area is kept impressively clean, making the visit even more enjoyable. The stunning views and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit spot for nature lovers!

Mt. Aso in autumn is a beautiful sight. There is no better time to enjoy a long drive to the peak than in autumn when the air is cool and the pampas grass rolls in the highlands. I feel like it’s most scenic of all other seasons. The brownish silvery landscape is an absolutely stunning view.

" A Mountain Like a Giant Wall " As a Korean traveler, I’m pretty sure Mount Fuji is the first mountain that comes to mind when people think of Japan. But I can confidently say that Mount Aso is just as breathtaking, and easily rivals Mount Fuji. The weather was mostly cloudy during the visit, but just as I approached, the sky briefly opened up. A light drizzle began to fall, and suddenly, a long rainbow stretched across the vast grasslands where horses and cows grazed peacefully. B-E-A. UTIFULL!

Nice fruits and vegetables with fair price. There are different kinds of みかん🍊for guests to have a try

Good place to stop and walk around

(Translated by Google) Other roadside stations are often open before closing time, but this one is closed if you arrive before opening time, so make sure to go after it opens. There are many small snack shops lined up, making it a fun place to visit during long holidays. There's also an area selling Kumamoto souvenirs, and Oguri Chaya, which serves meals and snacks. I had a chestnut and vanilla mixed soft serve there. It was refreshingly sweet and delicious. (Original) 他の道の駅は開店時間前でも割と開いていたりしますが、こちらは時間前に行ったら 開店していないので開店後に行って下さい。 小さな軽食店が軒を連ねていて連休中などは楽しいんじゃないでしょうか。 熊本のお土産品を集めた売り場や、お食事所と軽食を扱っている小栗茶屋もあります。 そちらで栗とバニラのミックスソフトをいただきました。 爽やかな甘さで美味しかったです。

(Translated by Google) We've changed our Satoyama cuisine "Dago Soup" to the up-and-coming "Akagyu" beef! Oguri's chestnut soft serve is also delicious here! ♡ '25/4/5 (Sat) ♏ Here! A suggestion. Menu improvement!! Change "Dago Soup" to "Jumbo Dago Soup" This will make the extra portion and serving size worth the 750 yen, making it a truly "Masimasi" (extra extra) menu! ♏ Mixing is a gamble!? It's effective for softening the strong flavor of the original ingredients (e.g., wasabi soft serve). However, if the ingredients are lightly seasoned, the vanilla (milk) ingredients can dilute the umami of both the ingredients and the soft serve, resulting in a mutually unsatisfactory outcome. In this case, the vanilla and chestnut flavors complement each other without compromising each other's individuality, creating a beautiful melody that I think is worthy of applause. *Since roadside station Kahoku Ogurigo is open 24 hours a day, please understand that meals, photography, etc. will be available during the trial run (preview) period on Wednesday, April 2nd. Today, you will only be able to stop by to get your stamp book filled. 🗾Kyushu & Okinawa Stamp Rally📙008 🚗Saturday, April 5, 2025 🕙9:52 PM ◀️Wednesday, April 2, 2025 🕞3:07 PM (📷️①) 🍦Vanilla & Chestnut Mix Soft Serve 450 yen [Petit Cafe Oguri no Ki] (📷️②) 🥩Mini Akagyudon Set Meal 1,600 yen 🥢Dago Soup Substitute 750 yen [Akagyu Shokudo Yokayoka] (📷️③) (^o^)／Stamp Book Stamping •••4/5 (📷️④) 🧑‍✈️Thank you very much to all our customers who used the service from "Roadside Station Asahishi, Asahishi Village Community Center, Ltd." Thank you for riding the Roadside Station Kyushu Fukukuma Line today. This service is a spring special train, visiting roadside stations in Kumamoto and Fukuoka prefectures for two days only. We will now move from Kumamoto to Fukuoka. We hope you will continue your ride and enjoy the ride. Our next stop is Tachibana Roadside Station. ♏« Roadside Station Tour: My Rules #8 »♏ ★★★Analog Collection Edition★★★ 🚗　ーPART 1 Clear Fileー 🚗 In a world where we can collect, manage, and view all kinds of data on our smartphones, I'm a staunch analog lover. Roadside station merchandise? The nine areas are color-coded (Kyushu and Okinawa are red), and the clear folders are organized by prefecture. Brochures, stamps, receipts, meal tickets, chopstick wrappers, shopping bags, wrapping paper, and more from the roadside stations I visited are carefully arranged and pasted into them. My goal is to create a bookshelf reminiscent of a library. (Original) 里山料理“だご汁”から、新進気鋭“あか牛” に衣替え！ここで味わってこその、小栗の マロンソフトもよかよか♡ ’25/４/５(土) ♏ハイ！提案です。メニューの改善です!! ”だご汁変更“→”ジャンボだご汁に変更“ これなら、増量も器も750円も納得の、 マシマシ(増し増し)メニューに変身だぁ!? ♏ミックスは博打!?元の素材の強味を 緩和させる為には有効(わさびソフト等) だが、素材の味付けが薄味の場合には、 バニラ(牛乳)成分が素材と自身の旨味も 薄めてしまい、共倒れ状態になる事も。 今回の場合は、バニラとマロンが互いの 個性を損なう事無く、旨味を尊重しあい 美しい旋律を完成させた、拍手喝采の 至極のミックスソフトだと想います。 ※『道の駅鹿北 小栗郷』は、24時間 スタンプ押印が可能なので、食事•撮影 等は試運転(下見)期間の４月２日(水)に 行い、本日はスタンプブック押印のみ の立ち寄りになっている事に、御理解 及び御了承をお願い致します。 🗾九州•沖縄 スタンプラリー📙008 🚗2025年４月５日(土) 🕙21時52分 ◀️2025年４月２日(水) 🕞15時07分 (📷️①) 🍦バニラ＆マロンミックスソフト 450円 【ぷちかふぇ おぐりの樹】(📷️②) 🥩ミニあか牛丼定食 1,600円 🥢だご汁変更 750円 【あか牛食堂 よかよか】(📷️③) (^o^)／スタンプブック押印•••4/5(📷️④) 🧑‍✈️『道の駅旭志 有限会社旭志村ふれあい センター』から御利用のお客様、大変 お疲れ様でございました。 本日は、「道の駅•九州 福熊線」御乗車 頂きまして、誠に有難うございます。 なお今回の運行は、春の臨時列車として 「熊本県」及び「福岡県」の道の駅を、 ２日間限定で訪問しております。道の駅 巡りは、これより熊本県から福岡県へと 移動して参ります。この後も引き続き 御乗車されてお楽しみ頂ければ幸いです。 次の停車駅は、『道の駅•たちばな』です。 ♏« 道の駅 巡り My ルール その８ »♏ ★★★アナログ•コレクション編★★★ 🚗　ーPART 1　クリアファイルー　🚗 スマホであらゆるデータを収集•管理• 閲覧が出来る現し世に、私は逆らう位の アナログ派である。道の駅グッズ？を ９つのエリア毎に色分け(九州•沖縄は赤) した県別のクリアファイルに、訪れた 道の駅のパンフレット,スタンプ,レシート ,食券,箸袋,レジ袋,包装紙等をバランス 良く配置して貼り付けています。図書館 の様な本棚の完成を目指しています。

(Translated by Google) 11/10/25 069 This was a long roadside station along Route 325. The parking lot was zoned. The restroom building was clean and had washlet toilets. There didn't seem to be any trash cans. The store was closed, so it's unclear what the store was like. (Original) 25/11/10 069 325号線沿いに有る横に長い道の駅でした。駐車場はゾーン分けされていました。トイレ棟はウオシュレットトイレで綺麗でした。ゴミ箱は無いようでした。店舗は時間外の為不明です。

(Translated by Google) The Akagyu beef bowl 🐃 looks delicious 🥸 This time of year, they also have chestnut parfaits and soft serve ice cream 🍦 😊 (Original) あか牛牛丼🐃美味しそうです🥸 この時期は栗を使ったパフェやソフトクリーム🍦もありました😊

(Translated by Google) October and November are chestnut season, so this roadside station is filled with chestnuts. There is also an abundance of other fruits, such as persimmons and mandarin oranges. (Original) 10～11月は栗のシーズンなので、この道の駅は栗づくしとなります。他にも渋柿やみかんなど果物が豊富になります。

Aso Shrine is known as one of the oldest shrines in Japan. As you know well, the Aso Shrine was seriously damaged during the Kumamoto earthquakes in 2016. When I visited it, the rectification work was on-going. Although I don’t have any Japanese historical background, it looked very sacred place. Enjoy.

The crater of Mount Aso has been a sacred object of worship at Aso Shrine for over 2000 years. Six shrine buildings and gates (Ichinoshinden, Ninoshinden, Sannoshinden, Romon, Shinkomon, and Kangyomon), that had been rebuilt between 1840 - 1850 were designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan in 2007. However, they suffered severe damage in the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake. The long and arduous task of restoring these damaged structures was finally completed in December 2023.

Due to the recent earthquake, they have to rebuild this shrine. There are some shops beside the shrine but rather quiet during the day and some are closed.

This shrine is bigger than I expected. Several buildings, with a lot of new restoration. We could go into any place so just a walk around outside.

My second visit took place after the main earthquake. Many areas and buildings are still being repaired. Wish the ASO shrine could reclaim its glorious day soon.

The shrine is a beautiful place, although it’s partly under construction. Went there around 10 am on a weekend and there weren’t people visiting yet. The entrance is free but if you come by car, after exceeding some time you need to pay 100¥.

The main shrine was destroyed by the recent earthquake and they are in the process of rebuilding it. Another interesting thing about this area, there are many spring and fountains that you can hunt them down individually. These springs are also located in the shopping district and there are many nice cafe and restaurants you can try. You can go to the visitor centre for more information.

Beautiful place and you can take time to just pause and breathe in the fresh air. There paragliding too.

Very windy here, great view though! Can’t believe volcano eruption is so powerful you can see the whole bowl shaped leveling caused by it

Most magnificent view in Kumamoto prefecture. I visited lots of national parks all over the world but this view is definitely comparable to them. If you come here in the early morning, you can enjoy a different atmosphere which I also liked.

The view from there and the driving way was just amazing! Super windy so prepare a but warmer clothes Parking was free It seemed some (or entire) area closes at 17:00

Beautiful natural scene . Highly recommend

Went for a stop on the way from Beppu to Kumamoto. Crowded during the weekends. Beautiful scenery on clear, sunny days. Must try the soft cream inside the store.

Worlds’ second largest caldera which was emerged due to the eruption of mount Aso (Volcano) 300,000years ago. 25km long and 18km wide.

A Serene Weekend Escape Nestled in the peaceful countryside, Nabegataki Falls offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. I visited on a weekend, making the almost two-hour drive from Kumamoto City—a journey that, though a little long, felt like part of the adventure itself. The winding roads and scenic views along the way gradually melted away any lingering stress, setting the tone for what was to come. Upon arriving, I was immediately taken in by the sense of calm that surrounded the falls. The sound of cascading water mixed gently with the occasional laughter of visitors, both locals and tourists alike, creating a soft, joyful background without overwhelming the tranquility. Despite being a weekend, it wasn't crowded, allowing plenty of quiet moments to just sit, breathe, and soak in the beauty. The falls themselves are magical—you can even walk behind the curtain of water, feeling the cool mist on your skin. It’s an incredibly refreshing experience, almost like stepping into a hidden world. And with an entrance fee of just ¥300, it’s an accessible gem for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat into nature. If you're looking for a spot to unwind and reconnect with nature in Kumamoto Prefecture, Nabegataki Falls is well worth the drive.

Stunning location, apart from a steep decent the entire adventure is well paved and walking sticks are available at the entrance. You can descend into the waterfall area, the scenery is stunning and so picturesque. You can walk behind the waterfall but you may get dropped on. You can paddle your feet in the water at the base of the waterfall or I. The stream that follows. So many hidden beauty spots, even just up the path from the waterfall is a gentle stream with dragonflies dancing above. Well worth a visit and as 2 adults and one child we only paid ¥1200 which is £6. Little shop at the entrance and vending machines offer a choice of refreshments

One of the rare waterfall that you can walk behind the waterfall. A UNESCO site. Highly recommended to visit

Really cool waterfall and easy hike (more like a walk). Plenty of parking spaces, but the road to the area is verrrrry narrow in some sections.

Amazing waterfall. When we visited it was during the week so it wasn't too busy and we could get some good photos. The walk down is not difficult but has many stairs. It takes only about 5 mins to reach the falls from the car park. I would highly recommend visiting!

It’s closing to the Aso area, you could reach it easily when you were driving around Aso. The park is closed after 4:30pm, no highway is nearby, please make sure you have enough time to go if you decide to go after lunch. Quite a lot of visitors even weekdays, the parking was full while we were arrived at 4:00pm. The waterfall was amazing, clean and beautiful. The best time to come at morning during sunny day, you might catch the wonderful light through the trees.

Easy hike down. This waterfall is a must visit, you can trek behind the falls. Follow me on ig @shauneeie for more travel and food!

It was very nice there. Lovely place thanks to the tourist information at the Taketa station recommended is here

(castles visited: 60+) One of the best castle ruins I have visited. (I drove). The parking was easy to find. Easy to understand map and information (you would be surprised how many castles locations have next to no or terrible information, maps, and impossible to find parking). This castle was up in the sky. I felt a millions miles high. You couldn't hear the highway below or the city. But see Aso-san 100km away. I could have spent all day up there. It is just castle ruins, mostly foundation, but it's still mind boggling how they haul this stuff up and build on these mile high sheer cliffs. Getting even a few feet to the edge triggered my very mild fear of heights. This was a really amazing complex back on it's prime. I just couldn't imagine what it would have been like back in Edo.

Visited in spring and had a wonderful time! The ruins are nestled atop a hill, with spectacular views of the surrounding area. It’s such a peaceful and relaxing spot.

A gorgeous castle ruin woth view all around if you near by during april 1st they have a amazing festival

Interesting place if you have time to spare. Huge area where you can see nature(trees) and human (structure) are fighting.

Probably the best castle ruins in Japan. Not just the view but the grounds, how they are laid out and how they are left in a wonderfully ruined state. I could feel how this inspired one of the most famous Japanese songs, by composer Taki Rentaro whose house you can visit in neighboring Taketa which is a nice example of a small Japanese town. The grounds will take time to walk, at least an hour. There's no gate so go before or after opening hours to avoid the fee. The parking lot also stays open.

This place was so amazing. The ruins are beautiful, and the free app you can download is perfect for discovering the history of the ruins. The staff was really nice and tried to talk to us even though we didn't speak very good Japanese. I lost my glasses there and they sent them back to my place in Tokyo when I asked them to! I'll remember those castle ruins for a long time.

The scenic view is amazing, and the waterfall is beautiful! They have a cool bridge and you can walk across the waterfall. There's also access to see it from the lower river.

It's free, it's big, it's a sight. Unfortunately at the time I visited (July 7th, a week after the rainy season ended in 2025) it is less active and the flow was not so fierce. The location is actually also rather out of the way, so unless this is on the way to your next destination, I wouldn't recommend going out of your way for it. If it is on the way, then this is an easy recommendation. It's next to a very clean and neat roadside station with toilet facilities so it's really good.

Baby Niagara Falls of Japan with its own charm. Easily accessible and can reach the bottom of the Falls for beautiful photos.

Worth the visit. Prolly spend about 1-2 hours exploring the area

The waterfall view is so beautiful. It's totally free.

A very beautiful waterfall formed from the eruption of Mt Aso iabout 100,000 years ago . It has a drop of around 20 m and width about 120 m . It also carried a nickname “ miniature Niagara Falls of Japan ‘“ due to its horseshoe shape . There’s a suspension bridge near by where you can watch the full view of the waterfall. There’s restaurant supplying good food near by and from the restaurant, there’s a path leading to the basin of the waterfall. Very easy assessable by car . A very magnificent place to spend a few hours .

Spectacular view of the falls from the suspended bridge!

Visited in late June 2025. Easy to find and big free parking. Need to buy tickets to cross bridge. 500yen per person. I didn’t want to go cross the bridge so I didn’t buy the tickets. I could only provide the car park and the shop there for your information.

Plenty of parking available with staff guiding you for efficiency. The bridge itself is narrow and if you’re a bit afraid of heights, the bridge does a slight sway near the ends of the bridge but you will be fine! The views were amazing I definitely recommend checking it out. There’s no real need to go all the way over as there’s nothing really on the other side. Before crossing the bridge, if you time it right, there should be a staff member who will take a photo for you and they will give a version for free and a clearer larger photo for a price.

Came on Sunday and it was raining. The tickets cost 5k yen each. Don a plastic over self and we braved that light rain and walked on the bridge. U can feel the suspension swing on the bridge. Beautiful scenery

If you are looking for a mix of adventure and breathtaking scenery, Kokonoe Suspension Bridge in Oita Prefecture is one for the books. It is indeed an incredible feat of engineering and yes, a popular destination for both local and foreign tourists. The bridge offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape—lush greenery during the spring and summer seasons and vibrant hues during the fall. I went there three times already, but the view never gets old. Crossing the bridge can be a challenge for those who are afraid of heights and can also be a bit daunting during the windy days when it swings. Nevertheless, it’s a worthwhile visit for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. And yes... the burgers... I went there for the burgers, too. Don't forget to try one when you go there.

Very impressive pedestrian suspension bridge with fantastic views of the gorge & waterfalls. It is the highest of its kind in Japan. There are steps down to the waterfalls for a closer view and Onsen water foot baths at one end of the bridge. Overall a must-see if you’re in the area.

The view from this bridge is gorgeous. We visited this bridge with light rain but that's okay. The place is well-operated and taken good care of. The ticket is 500 yen per person. There're also toilets and souvenir shop. We recommended the local fruit gummy and drinking yoghurt from Yamanami Farm.

It's a calm and clean place that is famous for a picnic with family and friends. You can even see the snowy mountains at April.

Worth coming for the little stores that carries crafted goods. There are also stores that sold sake bottles.

This is like Kyoto that hasn’t been discovered yet. A quaint little heritage town that hasn’t gotten its fame, but the simplicity of its style has huge potentials in future growths.

Good for visit 1-2 hours.

It's a small market but has enough shops to look around and shop. It was interesting to watch traditional drum performance which was unexpected. It's quite a long performance but end of that, you can join the session that allows you to participate to play the drum under the performance team's instruction which I missed out.

We went here for the festival with lanterns on November 11, 2023. The evening is not typical on most days and I believe shops are closed at 5-6 pm. However, the street is a heritage area though the town is not well known.

It's not so crowded during weekdays. Most of the shops are selling souvenirs.

Nice old shopping street. Lots of shops selling wooden clog shoes. The Sui cheesecake roll is really good too!

It’s a unique experience, a small village in the middle of the mountains, all houses basically dedicated to the craft, you see then drying the products outside and the shops are inside their homes. Such a local feel, the price range is reasonable with some going cheaper and some more pricey. They got a small free local museum, all the stuff inside is in Japanese though but nice enough to look at. The parking lot by the museum isn’t the biggest, it was quite empty when I got there around 9:30 am but completely full when I left around 11 am. Guess it depends on season and weather but it doesn’t seem like there are any other parking spots around so I suggest arriving earlier if you’re driving :))

We went on a rainy day so we only went to two shops, but the potteries are so nice, we bought some beautiful tea cups. The shops are unattended and you need to ring the bell if you want to buy. They are professional craftsmen busy working in the workshops, not professional customer service employees, so don't be a jerk going in.

Am a potter hence wanted to visit this place to possibly make some ceramics or buy some unique pieces. However, there were probably only 4-5 shops that were opened, with many store owners being quite nonchalant and products were limited. Not as wide of a range as one would’ve expected. Interesting to still see how they pound the yellow clay using the force of the water. Love the cute (and only food store) soba and udon shop!

When art, tradition, and nature seamlessly fuse, the resulting uniqueness establishes an identity of its own. Originality can't be replicated nor transferred; it exclusively resides within the soul of the creator. This is what it is.

A village dedicated to pottery. Serene and tranquil, located in the middle of mountain and forest. Really nice walking in the village and admiring all the pottery items.

Caught bus from bus station worth doing for scenery and the really interesting story of the pottery village and how it’s made. Needless to say we purchased some pottery which is very reasonably priced.

Beautiful, quiet and a great range of high quality traditional pottery. Items are mostly 1000yen and up (each). If you know what you are interested in and need a beautiful addition to your tableware, you will find it here. Spend just under 10000yen on 5 items.

A vibrant lane with mini souvenir shops and ice cream and drinks and fast food outlets. It almost has a carnival feel like atmosphere as you walk down the street. Not much for a long visit but interesting if you are in the area.

Yufuin is such a peaceful and beautiful village, and it’s great for a day trip if you’re staying in Fukuoka. It’s super easy to get to from Hakata Station with options like the Yufuin no Mori tourist train or the Limited Express to Beppu. If you visit during colder weather, Yufuin is also known for its hot springs, or you could head to Beppu, which is just over an hour away by train. We went in mid-December, so we missed the autumn colors, but it was still worth the trip. Even during the off-season, there are quite a few visitors, but the crowds aren’t too overwhelming. A day is more than enough to explore the village, and Mount Yufu looks amazing at sunset. As with most places in Japan, the food here is definitely a highlight. There are tons of stalls with delicious snacks like golden croquettes and giant crab sticks—perfect for warming up after walking around in the cold. No matter the weather, though, you’ve got to try the soft-serve ice cream, especially anything with Yufuin Milk. It’s so good!

Very beautiful surroundings but way overrated, not an enjoyable experience due to the about of tourist. I walked around for about two hours to the lake and back and was very underwhelmed. For a scenic experience with less crowds I'd suggest the Beppu Ropeway

I had fun strolling along the street with rows of souvenir shops, snack stalls, restos, cafes. Popular ones were crowded tho. I had lunch at a resto near the lake, and just got some snacks along the street. There were toilets in the area. One was near the parking lot near Snoopy.

Very lively street with lots of tourists and locals. Plenty of street food options here and interesting stores selling handmade crafts or tourist memorabilia. This street also leads to Yufuin Floral Village and Kinrin Lake. Do take note that trash bins are always full and best to take your trash home with you. There are some public toilets along the street but can be quite filthy due to the amount of tourists here.

Nice chill walking street. It’s a good walking street from Yufuin station to Yufuin floral village. Nice view, plenty of foods and shops.

A must do in Yufuin for savoury delights & sweet treats! Literally, you can walk, eat & browse the stores along the way! Full of tourists but managed to wait for breaks to capture a few shots! Enjoy the cu-cu-chi cafe garden & their duck soba too! Make sure you plan a full day to allow time to enjoy the streets & treats!

Beautiful autumn colours! Nice place to walk. There are lots of cafes and food joints at the nearby Yufuin Floral village and the surroundings. Very popular place.

Stay a night if you are aiming for that picturesque morning mist shot. I highly recommend going around the lake, not only to enjoy the clear waters and the koi fishes swimming near the surface. You can get various angles of the lake, and also get away from the throngs of people. I "caught" a visitor resting on a ledge above the small stream next to 下ん湯。 The crowd dissipates as I was halfway across the lake and I bumped into less than 5 people upon visiting Tenso Shrine and the public toilet that the signs around the lake directed you to. Yes, so if your aim was to find the public toilet from the signs, just walk in from the right side.

This is the main tourist attraction in the area. It’s about a 20min walk from the station straight towards the mountains then a right turn. Some of the cool cafes around the lake are not open on certain days so be careful. It is surprisingly much smaller than expected. There are fish and a small shrine but heavily crowded by tourists groups and visitors. There are tons of shops and food stands along the way. Most of which seem like tourist traps. we tried a couple food stalls and the food was subpar to the pictures on their marketing. Overall it’s fine but nothing amazing since. We had a much better time at our osen 👌

Great location for a picturesque shot. Can be crowded at times, but circling around the lake to the shrine may allow for a quieter escapade. If you manage to stay in Yufuin over the night, there's opportunities to visit as well, and it is absolutely tranquil then.

Lake Kinrin is in the pretty town of Yufuin with Mount Yufu as a stunning backdrop. We were there on Japan’s National Kimono Day & hired Kimono from Felice, run by a very friendly & welcome lady. She kitted us out & dressed us in traditional costumes of our choice, including hair adornment & footwear. It cost ¥6000 for the day.

Cozy little lake with great views and cafes nearby. Very lovely to walk around, admire the views, sketch and look at the herons and cormorants fish.

It’s fine - it’s a lake with a few interesting Japanese buildings nearby. A Tori gate in the water. It’d be adorable if 1000s of tourists don’t descend on this place like locusts. It’s very sad. They swarm the area, walking all over the grass and damaging everything off path. They’re all hogging the fences between the water and the path, trying to get that Instagram post with water birds in the background. Don’t come to the city just for this. You’ll be disappointed.

I visited on the 8/11/24 and not much autumn foliage to be seen. Apparently the autumn foliage in Japan was delayed in 2024 by roughly a month. That being said I would suggest visiting from at least the 3rd week of November to see the autumn foliage. Other than the autumn foliage it's still a lovely place with tourist shops and a nice walk or two near the river.

Visited on November 11, 2023. Not sure if the autumn colors had not arrived or were gone, there was not much autumn to see though the small shops alongside the road are quite lovely.

I think it’s beautiful place in Autumn 🍂. I went there on spring on that time it’s only pretty geen. If you plan to travel there it’s better on September or October.

Beautiful, especially middle of november. Quite a lot of tourists, try to arrive early. We ate boar soup (shishi nabe) and deer on a stick (shika kushi). Lovely photo spot. Get in and out before 11.30am if you can.

It was alright if you’re passing by you can stop but nothing amazing in my opinion

Beautiful site of autumn leaves.

A good but tiny place to see the rocks. Park at the public one and walk for 10 minutes

The huge wisteria tree here covers a vast area and it’s fragrant. The shrine is also quite unique in architecture and worth a visit.

Beautiful place. It was raining today, but it’s okay the wisteria smells so good.

Very pretty local shrine. Locally famous for its wisteria garden. Peak time for wisteria is around April I believe. Check online for updates in the springtime. You can also get charms and goshuin here. It’s hard to get here without a car, but at least parking is free! Entrance to the shrine is also free.

Free Fuji to see and photo ops! A bit difficult to get to with public transport though!

Very secluded nice shrine that need own transport to reach

(Translated by Google) According to the Oita County Chronicles, this is one of two Ichinomiya shrines in Bungo Province. On her way back from her expedition to the Korean Peninsula, Empress Jingu visited Nishisamutayama (now Mount Hongu) and raised a white flag. The people then built a shrine, which is how the shrine began... The 450-year-old wisteria tree, a natural monument of the city, boasts an incredible range of branches! I was curious about the unusual design, with its incredibly long branches below the main hall's crossing, so I asked someone there, who replied that this is normal here. 😊🚙 I refrained from asking about the torn flags and the wording on the sign by the parking lot, as it would be childish _(._.)_ (Original) 豊後国に2つある🤔一宮の1つ 「大分郡志」によると朝鮮半島征討から帰る途中の神功皇后が西寒多山(現在の本宮山)に臨幸して🏳️白旗を立てたら民衆が祠を建てたのが始まりなんだとか…市の天然記念物の樹齢約450年の1本藤は枝の拡がりが凄まじいスケール‼️本殿の千木クロス部より下がとんでもなく長い奇抜な造りが気になって関係者に尋ねたらここではそれが当然なんですよとの返答😊🚙駐車場側の千切れた幟や看板の文言については大人げないので質問は控えました_(._.)_

(Translated by Google) The stone arch bridge (Mannenbashi Bridge) and the storehouse built in the Azekura style were well worth seeing. The legend of the demon's tooth-shaped stone is similar to a similar story at another temple, so it was interesting to learn about it on the same day. It says "Sacred grounds" except for the back of the main hall. There was a hole in the cliff, which intrigued me. The east side of the shrine is a green space that opens up a little, and it felt nice and different to the atmosphere. There was also a shrine dedicated to Oita-san, a powerful clan that gave Oita its name. There is a path leading to the Okumiya Shrine, and I wanted to go, but it seemed difficult to get there both on foot and by car, so I gave up this time. I'll just have to go again if I have the chance. (Original) 石造りのアーチ橋（万年橋）、校倉造りの神庫は見ごたえがあって良かったです。 鬼の歯形石の言い伝えは、どこかのお寺でそっくりな話があったので、同じ日に知れて面白かったです。 本殿の裏を除くと神域とかかれていました。崖に穴が開いていて、気になりました。 神社の東側が緑地で少し開けているのですが、空気感が変わって気持ちが良かったです。 あと、大分の地名になった豪族の大分さんを祀っているお社もありました。 奥宮に向かう参道があって、行きたかったけど、歩くのも車で行くのも大変そうなので、今回は断念。またご縁があったらということで。

A good, but challenging walk up to the summit. You arrive just below the two peaks , East or West which are are shorter but much harder final ascent. Views are beautiful below.

Cool place. for hiking, relaxation. Hiking to the mountain, little one takes around 2hrs roundway. The large one takes 4-6 hrs roundway. there are special routes you can take. Inside the large one, you can see deers inside.

Wrinting review so late. Sorry, we climbed it on last February.The weather didn’t support us. Though, the road was quite slippery. You need some gear to climb it properly.

Came here as part of a tour package, has very nice views of the Mount Yufu. Beautiful and spectacular.

Amazing hike. A bit challenging depending on physical activity. We took a way trough the forest the day down, can be done, it’s more challenging and indication is by ribbon but definite can be done. The view is incredible, for the more physically fit, both summits are reachable.

Nice & quiet Saturday summer hike. Relaxed climb up to the 'Y-junction' in between the two mountains with a fair bit of rock scrambling with metal chains nearing summit. Amazing view once the clouds cleared.

A beautiful and slightly terrifying hike. One of the best trails I ever did. You need some nerves for climbing the west peak. After doing so you can scramble around the crater up to a ridge from which you can reach the east peak. Make sure to bring some good shoes and weather with you ;-)