Best National Parks of Japan : #3 Aso-Kuju National Park/阿蘇くじゅう国立公園
Join us on a captivating journey through Aso-Kuju National Park (阿蘇くじゅう国立公園) in Kyushu, Japan, as we explore its breathtaking volcanic landscapes and untouched natural wonders. Ranked as the third most visited national park among Japan’s 34, Aso-Kuju promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Index
- Naka-dake 1st Crater (中岳中央火口)
- Kurodake Nature Forest (黒岳自然林)
- Hiijidake Mountain (平治岳)
- Tadewara Swamp (タデ原湿原)
- Yamanami Highway（やまなみハイウェイ）
- Aka-ushi Pastures in Mt. Aso (阿蘇山 あか牛放牧エリア）
1. Naka-dake 1st Crater (中岳中央火口)
Just like many other national parks in Japan, Asok-Kuju National Park is a volcanic landform. Its iconic sight includes the Nakadake Crater Lake, a lake inside a crater of an active volcano at the center of Five-Aso mountains (阿蘇五岳). You can take a peek at this roaring and steaming lake from the observatory, which is accessible by car.
2. Kurodake Nature Forest (黒岳自然林)
Embark on a serene hike through the primitive forests of Kurodake Mountain, where moss-covered grounds, tall beech trees, and crystalline spring water pools evoke scenes from Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke.
3. Hiijidake Mountain (平治岳)
Marvel at the vibrant pink hues of Kyushu azalea flowers covering Hiijidake Mountain from late May to early June. Alternatively, escape the crowds and camp amidst the breathtaking autumn foliage during fall.
4. Tadewara Swamp (タデ原湿原)
Experience the natural beauty of Tadewara Swamp, a Ramsar Convention-protected landscape accessible by car. This marshland provides a haven for rare animals and insects, with well-defined walking paths for exploration.
5. Yamanami Highway（やまなみハイウェイ）
Embark on an unforgettable driving experience along the Yamanami Highway, famed for its scenic 58km route winding through the Nine mountains of Kuju and five mountains of Aso, offering picturesque views of vast meadows, small shops, and farms.
6. Aka-ushi Pastures in Mt. Aso (阿蘇山 あか牛放牧エリア）
Lastly, for foodies: The Aso mountains are home to Kumamoto Aka-ushi（熊本あか牛）, or Japanese Brown Cattle. Aka-ushi is for one of four breeds of wagyu (和牛) produced in Japan. What is commonly known as wagyu is Kuroge-washu（黒毛和種）which has its origins in the Tajima region（但馬地方）of Hyogo prefecture. Kuroge-washu has unique genes that make the delicate marbling of the meat, such as the well-known Kobe beef, which results in the “melts like butter” sensation. Kuroge-washu made wagu a global phenomenon, and domestically, 95% of all wagyu consumed in Japan is this breed.
Aka-ushi, on the other hand, only consists of 1~2% of all wagyu in Japan. However, the recent trend of red meat beef is shedding new light on Aka-ushi. The cows are free-ranged in the grasslands of the Aso mountains. This stressless and natural fattening method creates fresh red meat with a hint of marbling. You can enjoy Aka-ushi at the local restaurants in various ways, such as steak, yakiniku, donburi, roast beef, etc.; choose your liking!
Aso-Kuju National Park, with its volcanic wonders and culinary delights, beckons adventurers for everyone. Wondering where the #1 and #2 most visited national parks in Japan are? Find out more about the Japan’s iconic natural sightseeing spots, Fuji-Hakone Izu Park and Shikotsu-Toya Park here!
Stay tuned for our next articles featuring #4 and #5 most visited national parks in Japan.
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*Information as of November 2022.
