Destinations

Mt Aso

"It is only when you are in one of the small towns and look around that you realise that you are actually within this gigantic volcanic caldera which is awe-inspiring. The smoking craters of Mt. Naka Dake reveal the power of Mother Nature has over this rural area of Japan"

Matt Spiller - Travel Consultant

Set in the heart of rural Kyushu, the Mt . Aso area is the place to come to find a slower, more traditional take on Japanese life. The momunental form of Aso-san dominates the area and many of the farming villages lie within the calderas themselves.

Travelling up to the base of the Nakedake peak, the lush meadows grazed by horse and cattle slowly give way to a starker, more volcanic landscape from where there are stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It is possible either by foot or ropeway to ascend the short distance to the top of Nakedake and peer down through sulphurous clouds to the eerie and seething grey-green lake that lies at its heart.

As you would expect, Mt. Aso is surrounded by a number of hot spring villages that make for ideal overnight stays if you want to explore this region. Particularly of note are the hot springs of Kurokawa, where ryokan lie along the river through the centre of the village and there are numerous Rotenburo (outside baths) to ease any aches and pains.

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Products featuring Mt Aso...

Small Group Tour

Kyushu Elements

Kyushu Elements is a dramatic journey of discovery south to the Island of Kyushu, a land of Earth, Fire and Water. Here you will find a country far removed from the bright lights of the ultra-modern cities. Life here is lived at a slower pace and you'll have time to enjoy what Japan is really about.

14 Nights: £3050

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Self Guided Adventure

Kyushu Adventure

Rural and remote, the island of Kyushu is a world away from the non-stop hive of activity of Japan’s eastern seaboard. From the laid-back historic port city of Nagasaki to the hot spring town of Beppu and the ancient forests of Yakushima Island, there are many treasures waiting to be discovered.

16 Nights: £2720

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