Southern Kyushu Area Pass

Your adventures in Japan have been made easy with this user-friendly Southern Kyushu area rail pass exclusively for international tourists. You can simply redeem your physical pass and head out to explore the stunning southern region of Kyushu with a lovely subtropical climate. Famous for its subtropical vegetation and heavy rainfall, this subregion of Kyushu holds the world’s largest active volcanic crater, Mount Aso. You can travel stress-free and in comfort for 3 consecutive days, as you make your way to discover the natural wonders of the region including beautiful hot springs, waterfalls, and much more!

Southern Kyushu Area Pass

Discover the vibrant subtropical subregion of Kyushu on this comprehensive sightseeing pass that includes access to local trains, limited express trains, and Shinkansen (bullet trains) for 3 consecutive days. Explore key destinations such as Hayato, Sendai, Hitoyoshi, Yoshimatsu, Shin-Yatsushiro, and Kumamoto with ease. The pass covers the city of Kumamoto, home to Mount Aso, the world’s largest active volcanic crater, which spans an area of approximately 250 square kilometers. Additionally, visit the historic Kumamoto Castle, a landmark built in 1607 that stands at over 30 meters tall with extensive fortifications and gardens covering more than 480,000 square meters. Travelers can also explore the scenic Hitoyoshi Basin, known for its lush greenery and serene landscapes stretching across 500 hectares. This pass provides a hassle-free way to experience Southern Kyushu’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty with stops at Hayato, Sendai, Hitoyoshi, Yoshimatsu, Shin-Yatsushiro, and Kumamoto.

Explore Mount Aso

Your tour stops at the world's largest active volcanic crater where visitors can hike through the vast 250 square kilometer expanse of the caldera. Established in geological history around 90,000 years ago, this unique feature offers stunning views and a chance to see sulfur vents and hot springs. The area is home to numerous hiking trails that take you past scenic spots like Kurokami Shrine, which was built in 1872, and the Nakadake crater, known for its frequent eruptions since 2015. Visitors typically spend around three hours exploring this vast landscape, enjoying panoramic views from various observation points. Mount Aso stands out due to its active geothermal activity and extensive hiking opportunities compared to other dormant volcanoes in Japan. It is a crucial site for understanding volcanic processes and geological history.

Visit Kumamoto Castle

At Kumamoto Castle, guests can explore the historic landmark built in 1607 that stands at over 30 meters tall with extensive fortifications and gardens covering more than 480,000 square meters. The castle is renowned for its intricate stone walls and moats, which were constructed between 1592 and 1601 by Kato Kiyomasa. Visitors can spend about two hours wandering through the main keep, several turrets, and the surrounding gardens, offering a glimpse into the architectural prowess of feudal Japan. Kumamoto Castle is unique for its well-preserved structures and extensive history compared to other castles in Kyushu, making it an essential stop on any tour of Southern Kyushu.

Discover Hitoyoshi Basin

The scenic Hitoyoshi Basin serves as a natural wonderland stretching across 500 hectares with lush greenery and serene landscapes. This area was designated as a national park in 1964, offering visitors the chance to hike through dense forests and along riverbanks while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The basin is home to several waterfalls and hot springs, including the famous Iwadaguchi Falls, which stands at over 20 meters tall. Visitors typically spend around three hours exploring this picturesque region, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Hitoyoshi Basin is unique due to its diverse ecosystem and well-preserved natural beauty compared to other regions in Kyushu.

Tour Highlights

• Save big with pass covering local trains
• 3 consecutive days of hassle-free travel
• Audio guide available in English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean
• Experience the world’s largest active volcanic crater at Mount Aso
• Explore historic Kumamoto Castle built in 1607
• Discover scenic Hitoyoshi Basin designated as a national park in 1964
• Access to Iwadaguchi Falls standing at over 20 meters tall
• Convenience of riding Shinkansen (bullet trains) throughout Kyushu

Perfect for tourists, adventurers, and history enthusiasts, this comprehensive pass provides an unparalleled exploration of Southern Kyushu’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The three-day duration allows you to experience the vast expanse of Mount Aso, delve into the historical significance of Kumamoto Castle, and marvel at the serene landscapes of Hitoyoshi Basin, giving you a deep appreciation for this region's unique features.