Mt. Aso and Kumamoto Castle Shared Bus Tour From Fukuoka

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Mt. Aso and Kumamoto Castle Shared Bus Tour from Fukuoka. This expertly guided journey takes visitors from Hakata Station to Japan’s largest active volcano, Mt. Aso, where they can enjoy breathtaking views and explore its volcanic landscapes. After this, the tour continues to the historic Kumamoto Castle, a 15th-century gem with rich cultural significance. With comfortable transportation and an English-speaking guide, this tour offers a hassle-free experience for travelers eager to discover Japan’s natural and historical wonders. What awaits you on this incredible journey?

Key Points

• This shared bus tour from Fukuoka takes visitors to explore the iconic Mt. Aso volcano and the historic Kumamoto Castle.
• The tour is conducted in a chartered minibus with a maximum of 20 travelers and an English-speaking guide.
• The tour price starts from $213.24 per person, with free entry to Kumamoto Castle and paid rooms available for 800 yen.
• The tour includes transportation, toll and parking fees, and is accessible for most travelers, except those with certain health conditions.
• Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Mt. Aso caldera, hike along the crater’s edge, and explore the grounds of Kumamoto Castle.

Tour Overview

The tour includes a shared bus ride from Fukuoka’s Hakata Station to both Mt. Aso and Kumamoto Castle.

The tour lasts the duration of travel time between locations, with a maximum of 20 travelers. A chartered minibus with 21+6 seats and no trunk is used, and an English-speaking guide is included.

The tour starts and ends at the Hakataekichikushiguchikanko Bus Senyo Parking Lot, departing from the Chikushi Exit.

The tour price is from $213.24 per person, and Kumamoto Castle entry is free, with paid rooms costing 800 yen.

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with certain health conditions, but most can participate.

Transportation Details

For this tour, a chartered minibus with 21+6 seats and no trunk is used to transport the group.

An English-speaking guide is included to assist travelers throughout the journey.

All toll and parking fees are covered, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The group will depart from the Chikushi Exit at Hakata Station, not the main Hakata Exit.

At the end of the tour, you will return to the original meeting point, the Hakataekichikushiguchikanko Bus Senyo Parking Lot.

Meeting and End Points

Participants will meet at the Hakataekichikushiguchikanko Bus Senyo Parking Lot, located at 4 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan.

They’ll depart from the Chikushi Exit, not the main Hakata Exit. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

The chartered minibus has 21+6 seats, with no trunk space. An English-speaking guide is included. Toll and parking fees are covered.

At the end of the tour, travelers will return to the original meeting location.

Costs and Entry Fees

The tour price starts from $213.24 per person. This includes the chartered minibus transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all toll and parking fees.

While entry to Kumamoto Castle is free, visitors must pay 800 yen (around $5 USD) to access the paid rooms within the castle.

The tour is accessible, with infant seats available, but not recommended for travelers with certain health conditions like back problems or pregnancy.

Accessibility and Health Information

Though the tour is accessible, with infant seats available, it isn’t recommended for travelers with certain health conditions.

Those with back problems, heart problems, or who are pregnant should avoid this tour.

The tour is near public transportation and is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it possible for most travelers to participate.

As long as visitors don’t have the aforementioned health concerns, they should be able to fully enjoy the sights of Mt. Aso and Kumamoto Castle on this shared bus tour from Fukuoka.

Exploring Mt. Aso

One of the highlights of this tour is a visit to the majestic Mt. Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan.

Visitors can marvel at the stunning caldera, which measures approximately 25 km in diameter.

The tour includes:

• Panoramic views from the volcanic rim
• Hikes along the crater’s edge
• Exploration of the volcanic landscape
• Visits to nearby hot springs and traditional villages
• Opportunities to learn about the volcano’s history and geological significance

With its awe-inspiring natural wonders, Mt. Aso offers a truly unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Visiting Kumamoto Castle

After exploring the awe-inspiring Mt. Aso, the tour next takes visitors to the majestic Kumamoto Castle.

This 15th-century castle is renowned for its impressive architecture and rich history. Travelers can wander through the castle grounds, admiring the intricate stone walls and towering keep.

While entry to the castle is free, visitors can pay a small fee to access the castle’s paid rooms, providing a glimpse into the castle’s past.

With its strategic location and well-preserved features, Kumamoto Castle offers a fascinating window into Japan’s feudal era.

The tour allows ample time to fully take in this historic landmark.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour begins with a comfortable chartered minibus ride from Hakata Station in Fukuoka, with an English-speaking guide accompanying the group throughout the day.

The tour includes:

• Visiting the impressive Mount Aso, one of the largest active volcanoes in the world
• Exploring the historic Kumamoto Castle, a stunning feudal-era fortress
• Enjoying the scenic views and learning about the region’s rich history and culture
• Avoiding the hassle of transportation and entry fees, which are covered in the tour price
• Experiencing the convenience of a small group tour with a maximum of 20 travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes chartered transportation, so there’s no restriction on bringing personal snacks and beverages. However, the guide may advise against consuming items that could create a mess.

Is There a Restroom on the Bus During the Tour?

Yes, there’s a restroom on the bus during the tour. The chartered minibus has a restroom for travelers’ convenience throughout the journey.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows full refunds for cancellations made at least 7 days prior to the tour date. Cancellations within 7 days are subject to a 50% fee. No refunds for no-shows.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal Option?

The tour does not offer vegetarian or halal meal options. Travelers with dietary restrictions should notify the tour operator in advance to discuss alternative arrangements or bring their own meals.

Is There an Opportunity to Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, there are plenty of opportunities to take photos during the tour. The itinerary includes stops at scenic locations like Mt. Aso and Kumamoto Castle, allowing travelers to capture stunning views and memorable moments.

The Sum Up

This shared bus tour from Fukuoka offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Japan’s natural and historical attractions. Travelers can enjoy the stunning volcanic landscapes of Mt. Aso and explore the rich cultural heritage of Kumamoto Castle, all with the convenience of transportation and an English-speaking guide. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.