Meeting Point

Yufuin-Onsen

Promenade Walking

A walking trail along the Gokase River, where you can admire the beautiful V-shaped gorge carved by erosion, with cliffs rising 80–100 meters on both sides. Especially in the morning, sunlight streaming into the gorge reflects on the crystal-clear river, creating rainbows in the fresh, ion-rich air—a refreshing walk surrounded by nature.

Bort ride

From the boat, you can look up at the powerful Manai Falls, which drop 17 meters—an awe-inspiring sight. Unlike viewing from the promenade, this offers a unique perspective of Takachiho Gorge’s grandeur. Be careful, though—if you mishandle the boat, you may end up soaked by the waterfall, adding a thrilling touch to the experience.

Lunch time

Amanoiwato shrine

A shrine tied to the Amanoiwato myth recorded in Japan’s oldest chronicles, the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. It enshrines Amaterasu-Ōmikami, the sun goddess worshipped at Ise Shrine as the imperial family’s ancestral deity. The shrine is divided into the Western Main Hall, which honors the cave where Amaterasu once hid, and the Eastern Main Hall, which enshrines her residence after she emerged from the cave. Visiting the Western Hall requires a guided ritual led by a Shinto priest.

Amanoyasugawara

The riverside cave where some 8 million deities from across Japan gathered to discuss how to coax Amaterasu out of hiding. The countless stone piles left on the riverbed are offerings made by visitors, who continue stacking them with hopes of having their wishes granted.

Daikanbō

A peak on the northern rim of Mt. Aso within the Aso-Kuju National Park, standing about 935 meters above sea level. The drop of about 400 meters down to Aso Valley offers breathtaking views, making it one of Aso’s most famous scenic spots. From here you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Aso cityscape, the Five Peaks of Aso, and even the Kuju Mountain Range in the distance.

Ending Point

Kurokawa-Onsen, the hotel entrance 05:00 PM