Kusasenrigahama — Attraction in Minamiaso

Kusasenrigahama is a sprawling grassy crater plain nestled at about 1,100 meters altitude in the Aso region of Kumamoto. From the moment we arrived, we were awestruck by the vast open space, with puffy clouds drifting above the lush expanse. The scenery changes with the seasons — vibrant green in summer and silvery-white in winter.

We took our time strolling through the gentle terrain, admiring the steaming vents of Mount Aso’s Nakadake in the distance. Nearby, a family of freestyle horses grazed peacefully, adding a charming pastoral feel. Visitors can also enjoy horse rides or follow easy walking paths up to scenic hilltops, making it perfect for a relaxed outing.

The area is well-equipped with a volcano museum, cafés, souvenir stalls, and horseback riding facilities just steps from the parking lot. We spent a leisurely afternoon here, soaking in the fresh mountain air and serene countryside vibe — a perfect escape from city life.

Highlights: • Panoramic views of steaming Nakadake and horses grazing on the grassland • Year-round beauty: lush green in summer, snow-covered in winter • Easy, family-friendly walking trails with pony rides available • Convenient facilities: parking, cafés, and exhibits nearby

Tips: • Visit early morning or late afternoon for golden light and fewer crowds • Bring warm layers as mountain weather changes quickly • Allocate 1–2 hours for a relaxed visit (more if you plan to ride horses)

Verdict: Kusasenrigahama offers breathtaking vistas, a calm atmosphere, and a beautiful taste of alpine nature. Whether as a quick stop or the highlight of your day, it’s a must-visit...

Kusasenrigahama is a mesmerizing natural gem. The sweeping grassy fields, framed by verdant hills and mirrored in the tranquil Lake Kusasenri, create a picturesque scene that's soothing to the soul. A serene escape for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Whether you’re seeking solace in nature, indulging in photography, or simply yearning for a peaceful escape, Kusasenrigahama delivers on all fronts. The stunning juxtaposition of the fields against the backdrop of Aso’s volcanic peaks is a sight that evokes a sense of wonder and appreciation for the...

A beautiful flat grassland where you could pay and ride horses. The land is clean and free from trash. I hope it gets to keep it this way.

//A vast beautiful meadow stretches for 1km at the foot of Mt. Eboshi-dake, one of the five peaks of Aso. It is a crater 30,000 years ago, which is the largest among the central cones. Taking a close look, you can find the crater consisting of double craters.

Left pond in the crater is the trace of the inner crater, and the hill (Mt. Komatate) in the center is the trace of lava dome blown by...