[Kumamoto City to Yatsushiro] Private Taxi: Kumamoto, Aso, & Takamori highlights

Built by Kato Kiyomasa over seven years, this iconic castle features the main keep, "musha-gaeshi" stone walls, Uto Turret (an Important Cultural Property), and long walls. Restoration work was completed in 2007 to mark its 400th anniversary.

Officially named Suizenji Jojuen Garden, this Momoyama-style strolling garden was created by the Hosokawa family, mimicking the 53 Stations of the Tokaido Road using spring water. Known as a romantic spot, it features a "Tree of Love" and benches for couples.

Mt. Aso boasts the world's largest caldera, w/ a circumference of about 130 km. Within the outer rim lies the Aso Five Peaks, including Nakadake, which remains active today. The massive 4-km-wide crater offers a close-up view of dynamic landscapes and intense white smoke rising from the volcano.

Located in Minami Aso, this spring produces 60 tons of crystal-clear water per minute at a constant 14°C. Designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Springs, visitors can take home the fresh water, which attracts fans from far and wide.

Originally constructed for a railway project in 1973, the tunnel was abandoned due to repeated water inflow accidents. Now, it serves as a vital water source for Takamori Town, producing 32 tons of spring water per minute. The 2,055-meter-long tunnel is now a beloved park.

Located in Yamato Town, this roadside station offers shopping and local specialties like handmade blueberry jam, soft-serve ice cream, fresh vegetables, and dried shiitake mushrooms. In summer, fresh blueberries are also available.

Built in 1854 during the Edo period by local leader Yasunosuke Futa, this is Japan's largest stone aqueduct bridge, still in use today. Its impressive water discharge from the central spout during maintenance is a must-see!

Built by Kato Kiyomasa over seven years, this iconic castle features the main keep, "musha-gaeshi" stone walls, Uto Turret (an Important Cultural Property), and long walls. Restoration work was completed in 2007 to mark its 400th anniversary.

Officially named Suizenji Jojuen Garden, this Momoyama-style strolling garden was created by the Hosokawa family, mimicking the 53 Stations of the Tokaido Road using spring water. Known as a romantic spot, it features a "Tree of Love" and benches for couples.

Mt. Aso boasts the world's largest caldera, w/ a circumference of about 130 km. Within the outer rim lies the Aso Five Peaks, including Nakadake, which remains active today. The massive 4-km-wide crater offers a close-up view of dynamic landscapes and intense white smoke rising from the volcano.

Located in Minami Aso, this spring produces 60 tons of crystal-clear water per minute at a constant 14°C. Designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Springs, visitors can take home the fresh water, which attracts fans from far and wide.

Originally constructed for a railway project in 1973, the tunnel was abandoned due to repeated water inflow accidents. Now, it serves as a vital water source for Takamori Town, producing 32 tons of spring water per minute. The 2,055-meter-long tunnel is now a beloved park.

Located in Yamato Town, this roadside station offers shopping and local specialties like handmade blueberry jam, soft-serve ice cream, fresh vegetables, and dried shiitake mushrooms. In summer, fresh blueberries are also available.

Built in 1854 during the Edo period by local leader Yasunosuke Futa, this is Japan's largest stone aqueduct bridge, still in use today. Its impressive water discharge from the central spout during maintenance is a must-see!