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A Scenic Drive Through Aso and Kumamoto’s Natural Wonders

Kumamoto is home to vast caldera landscapes and deep-rooted history. Discover sweeping panoramic views, mystical shrine paths reminiscent of anime scenery, and one of Japan’s most legendary castles. Experience the power and beauty of Kumamoto by car.

Destinations

Hokkaido
  • Hokkaido
Tohoku
  • Aomori
  • Iwate
  • Miyagi
  • Akita
  • Yamagata
  • Fukushima
Kanto
  • Ibaraki
  • Tochigi
  • Gumma
  • Saitama
  • Chiba
  • Tokyo
  • Kanagawa
Chubu
  • Niigata
  • Toyama
  • Ishikawa
  • Fukui
  • Yamanashi
  • Nagano
  • Gifu
  • Shizuoka
  • Aichi
Kansai
  • Mie
  • Shiga
  • Kyoto
  • Osaka
  • Hyogo
  • Nara
  • Wakayama
Chugoku
  • Tottori
  • Shimane
  • Okayama
  • Hiroshima
  • Yamaguchi
Shikoku
  • Tokushima
  • Kagawa
  • Ehime
  • Kochi
Kyushu
  • Fukuoka
  • Saga
  • Nagasaki
  • Kumamoto
  • Oita
  • Miyazaki
  • Kagoshima
Okinawa
  • Okinawa
Map of Japan with featured drive areas

Driving in Kumamoto

Earth's Divine Power & Higo Tradition: A Sacred Drive Through Kumamoto

Into the sacred domain of Aso and the world of traditional crafts passed down in Higo. The regenerative power of Aso Shrine, the warlord dignity of Kato Shrine, and experiences of Higo Zogan inlay and Amida basket weaving from Hondo. A cultural journey of earth and prayer unique to Kumamoto.

  • Aso Shrine

    Aso Shrine

    The head shrine of approximately 500 Aso shrines nationwide. The Important Cultural Property romon gate has been restored following the Kumamoto Earthquake, conveying the powerful strength of regeneration.

  • Kato Shrine (Inside Kumamoto Castle)

    Kato Shrine (Inside Kumamoto Castle)

    A shrine within Kumamoto Castle dedicated to Kato Kiyomasa. A sacred site where you can feel the spiritual power of the warlord and Kumamoto's pride against the backdrop of the castle tower under restoration.

  • Higo Zogan & Traditional Craft Experience

    Higo Zogan & Traditional Craft Experience

    Kumamoto's traditional Zogan inlay craft of hammering gold and silver into iron. Observe artisan skills up close and touch the beauty and intricacy of traditional craft pieces.

A Scenic Drive Through Aso and Kumamoto’s Natural Wonders

Kumamoto is home to vast caldera landscapes and deep-rooted history. Discover sweeping panoramic views, mystical shrine paths reminiscent of anime scenery, and one of Japan’s most legendary castles. Experience the power and beauty of Kumamoto by car.

  • Daikanbo

    Daikanbo

    A breathtaking 360-degree viewpoint overlooking the Aso caldera and the Five Peaks of Aso.

  • Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine

    Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine

    A mystical shrine path lined with nearly 100 lanterns and lush greenery, creating an atmosphere straight out of a fantasy world.

  • Kumamoto Castle

    Kumamoto Castle

    A legendary castle built by Kato Kiyomasa. Its reconstructed keep and elegant stone walls showcase the beauty of Japanese castle architecture.

A Single Cherry Tree, Castle & Stone Bridge: A Spring Drive Through Kumamoto

The majestic Isshingyo cherry tree standing proudly on the Aso plains; cherry blossoms paired with Kumamoto Castle, a symbol of recovery; and Tsujunkyo stone bridge in harmony with rapeseed flowers. Kumamoto's spring overflows with powerful vitality.

  • Isshingyo Grand Cherry Tree

    Isshingyo Grand Cherry Tree

    A solitary cherry tree over 400 years old, standing with dignity amid the vast Aso landscape — the star of spring.

  • Kumamoto Castle Cherry Blossoms

    Kumamoto Castle Cherry Blossoms

    The pairing of the recovering Kumamoto Castle and cherry blossoms symbolizes both resurrection and the vitality of spring.

  • Tsujunkyo Bridge Spring Scenery

    Tsujunkyo Bridge Spring Scenery

    A serene spring scene in Yamato Town, where an Edo-period stone bridge harmonizes with rapeseed flowers and cherry blossoms.

Kusasenri, Rapids & Coral Reefs: A Summer Journey Through Kumamoto

The majestic summer of Aso's Kusasenri-ga-Hama with volcanic smoke drifting overhead; rafting down the rapids of the Kuma River; and peering at the coral reefs of Amakusa through a glass-bottomed boat. Kumamoto's summer is nature's dynamism in full force.

  • Aso Kusasenri-ga-Hama

    Aso Kusasenri-ga-Hama

    A vast green meadow and crater lake set against the summer blue sky. A summer landscape of untamed nature with volcanic smoke drifting overhead.

  • Kuma River Rafting

    Kuma River Rafting

    Rafting down the Kuma River, one of Japan's three great rapids — a classic summer experience in Hitoyoshi.

  • Amakusa Underwater Park

    Amakusa Underwater Park

    Peer into Amakusa's rich coral reefs from a glass-bottomed boat. The brilliance of the summer sea is all the more dazzling.

Hidden Waterfall, Grass Foliage & Gorges: An Autumn Journey Through Kumamoto

The spectacular pairing of Nabegataki Falls viewed from behind and its surrounding autumn foliage; the vast Aso grasslands turning to their autumn hues; and the clear streams and foliage of Kikuchi Gorge. Kumamoto's autumn is a scenic journey with the Aso landscape as its star.

  • Nabegataki Falls Autumn Leaves (Oguni Town)

    Nabegataki Falls Autumn Leaves (Oguni Town)

    Viewed from behind the curtain of water, this hidden waterfall and its surrounding foliage beautifully color the water's surface. The interplay of water and autumn leaves is breathtaking.

  • Aso Grass Foliage

    Aso Grass Foliage

    From September to October, the Aso grasslands shift to their dry autumn hues. The autumn colors spreading across this vast landscape speak directly to the heart.

  • Kikuchi Gorge Autumn Leaves

    Kikuchi Gorge Autumn Leaves

    Kyushu's finest clear stream at the headwaters of the Kikuchi River, layered with the gorge's natural beauty and autumn foliage — a breathtaking autumn panorama.

Open-Air Baths, Volcanic Smoke & Stone Bridges: A Winter Drive Through Kumamoto

The snow scenery of Kurokawa Onsen toured with a bath passport; the Aso winter where volcanic smoke and snowfields coexist; and the tranquil snow-covered scene of Tsujunkyo Bridge. Kumamoto's winter is a journey where hot springs and breathtaking scenery resonate together.

  • Kurokawa Onsen Snow Scenery

    Kurokawa Onsen Snow Scenery

    The combination of open-air baths toured with a bath passport and snowy scenery creates an extraordinary winter atmosphere unlike everyday life.

  • Aso Winter Volcanic Smoke & Snowfields

    Aso Winter Volcanic Smoke & Snowfields

    In Aso's winter, volcanic smoke rises above the white spreading snowfields — a scene that conveys the raw life force of the earth.

  • Tsujunkyo Bridge Winter Scenery

    Tsujunkyo Bridge Winter Scenery

    The snow-draped stone bridge and the completely still mountain village convey a timeless silence that transcends the ages.

Kumamoto Campaign Info

    • Early Autumn Special Offer

      Autumn travel starts earlier than you think. Book your rental car in advance and enjoy a smooth, comfortable journey during the beautiful fall season. From scenic drives to weekend getaways, prepare now and travel with ease.

      Campaign period: 2026/08/16 – 2026/09/30

      Book with this campaign

    • Early Autumn Special Offer

      Autumn travel starts earlier than you think. Book your rental car in advance and enjoy a smooth, comfortable journey during the beautiful fall season. From scenic drives to weekend getaways, prepare now and travel with ease.

      Campaign period: 2026/08/16 – 2026/09/30

      Book with this campaign

    • No Peak Season Charges – Ever!

      Absolutely no additional fees even during the peak season!🚗✨
      Make affordable car reservations even during the peak season.
      We highly recommend making reservations ASAP! Especially during the peak season!

      Campaign period: 2026/08/07 – 2026/08/15

      Book with this campaign

    • Special discount for Long Stay Deal!

      Long-Term Car Rental Promotion! More Freedom, More Savings! Save even more with rentals of 3 days or longer!

      Campaign period: 2026/05/06 – 2026/10/31

      Book with this campaign

    • Long Stay Deal!

      Special Discount for Long-Term Rentals!🚘
      Drive freely with the best deal from Budget Rent a Car! 🌟🛣️
      Rent for 5 days or more and enjoy a special discount!
      ※ Offer applies only to rentals of 5 days or longer
      ※SUV2 GPS： Japanese display & voice guidance
      　(iPhone: APPLE CAR PLAY / Android: Android Auto will enable multi-language support, but you will need to bring your own special code)

      Campaign period: 2026/05/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • Limited-Time Special Drive Offer

      Enjoy a premium drive through Kyushu with AVIS. Selected vehicles now 30% OFF.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/22 – 2026/09/30

      Book with this campaign

    • Toyota Alphard – 4th Generation

      Travel in premium comfort. Enjoy the Toyota Alphard 4th Series, available for rental in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • West Japan Golden Route – 3+ Day Journey

      Follow the Golden Route of West Japan. Enjoy 8% OFF when you rent for 3 days or more in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • 90-Day Early Bird

      Plan ahead and save more. Book your rental 90 days in advance and enjoy 20% OFF on selected vehicles in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • 30-Day Early Bird

      Book early and save on your trip. Book your rental 30 days in advance and enjoy 10% OFF on selected vehicles in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • 4+ Day Long-Stay Drive Offer

      More time to explore Kyushu. Enjoy 10% OFF when you rent for 4 days or more.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • 7+ Day Long-Stay Drive Offer

      More days. More freedom. More savings. Enjoy 15% OFF when you rent for 7 days or more in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • 60-Day Early Bird

      Book early and enjoy great savings. Book your rental 60 days in advance and enjoy 15% OFF on selected vehicles in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • Early Autumn Special Offer

      Autumn travel starts earlier than you think. Book your rental car in advance and enjoy a smooth, comfortable journey during the beautiful fall season. From scenic drives to weekend getaways, prepare now and travel with ease.

      Campaign period: 2026/08/16 – 2026/09/30

      Book with this campaign

    • Early Autumn Special Offer

      Autumn travel starts earlier than you think. Book your rental car in advance and enjoy a smooth, comfortable journey during the beautiful fall season. From scenic drives to weekend getaways, prepare now and travel with ease.

      Campaign period: 2026/08/16 – 2026/09/30

      Book with this campaign

    • No Peak Season Charges – Ever!

      Absolutely no additional fees even during the peak season!🚗✨
      Make affordable car reservations even during the peak season.
      We highly recommend making reservations ASAP! Especially during the peak season!

      Campaign period: 2026/08/07 – 2026/08/15

      Book with this campaign

    • Special discount for Long Stay Deal!

      Long-Term Car Rental Promotion! More Freedom, More Savings! Save even more with rentals of 3 days or longer!

      Campaign period: 2026/05/06 – 2026/10/31

      Book with this campaign

    • Long Stay Deal!

      Special Discount for Long-Term Rentals!🚘
      Drive freely with the best deal from Budget Rent a Car! 🌟🛣️
      Rent for 5 days or more and enjoy a special discount!
      ※ Offer applies only to rentals of 5 days or longer
      ※SUV2 GPS： Japanese display & voice guidance
      　(iPhone: APPLE CAR PLAY / Android: Android Auto will enable multi-language support, but you will need to bring your own special code)

      Campaign period: 2026/05/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • Limited-Time Special Drive Offer

      Enjoy a premium drive through Kyushu with AVIS. Selected vehicles now 30% OFF.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/22 – 2026/09/30

      Book with this campaign

    • Toyota Alphard – 4th Generation

      Travel in premium comfort. Enjoy the Toyota Alphard 4th Series, available for rental in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • West Japan Golden Route – 3+ Day Journey

      Follow the Golden Route of West Japan. Enjoy 8% OFF when you rent for 3 days or more in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • 90-Day Early Bird

      Plan ahead and save more. Book your rental 90 days in advance and enjoy 20% OFF on selected vehicles in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • 30-Day Early Bird

      Book early and save on your trip. Book your rental 30 days in advance and enjoy 10% OFF on selected vehicles in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • 4+ Day Long-Stay Drive Offer

      More time to explore Kyushu. Enjoy 10% OFF when you rent for 4 days or more.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • 7+ Day Long-Stay Drive Offer

      More days. More freedom. More savings. Enjoy 15% OFF when you rent for 7 days or more in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

    • 60-Day Early Bird

      Book early and enjoy great savings. Book your rental 60 days in advance and enjoy 15% OFF on selected vehicles in Kyushu.

      Campaign period: 2026/04/01 – 2027/04/23

      Book with this campaign

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