Takachiho Gorge and Aso Volcano from Kumamoto.
Joined 2025
Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡, Takachiho-kyō)
Key Features:
Geological Formation:
The gorge was formed by the rapid cooling and solidification of lava from Mount Aso's ancient eruptions. This created steep, vertical basalt cliffs with unique columnar jointing patterns along the Gokase River.
Manai Falls (真名井の滝):
A 17-meter-high waterfall that flows directly into the gorge. It’s one of the most iconic sights, especially when viewed from a rental boat on the river.
Boat rides.
Walking Trails.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel in Kumamoto city.
- Your hotel.
Takachiho Gorge.
Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡, Takachiho-kyō) is a stunning natural wonder located in Miyazaki Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, Japan. It's renowned for its dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and mythological significance in Japanese folklore.
Cultural & Mythological Significance:
Takachiho is deeply tied to Japanese mythology, particularly the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu. According to myth, she hid in a cave in this region, plunging the world into darkness until she was coaxed out, bringing light back to the world. Nearby sites such as Amano-Iwato Shrine are associated with this legend.
Aso Volcano
Nakadake volcano, the most active volcano in Japan.
Daikambo.
Daikambo has the best views of the Aso valley. You can even go paragliding there with an instructor on certain days. Usually from Friday to Sundays.
Your hotel.
Your hotel.
Ending Point
Your hotel.
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Driving guide.
Nissan 4x4 SUV.
Fuel.
Transportation fee.
Lunch. About $12.
Parking fees ( $10 ).
Boat rental fee ¥5000. You need to book this online 2 weeks before the date of your tour and no less than 2 days before it. There is a maximum of 3 people per boat.
Tour Important Information
Please let me know of any food allergies you may have.
Important message from the supplier
It’s very important that you inform me of any food allergies you may have. This way, I can make sure to notify the restaurant staff and ensure your safety and comfort.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Steve R.
Hello! I'm Steve and I’m originally from Sydney, Australia, but I’ve lived in Kumamoto City for the past 28 years. I hold a Gold license. I’d love to take you on a tour of some of the region’s most historic and stunning sites. I took my profile picture on the balcony of my home, which sits high on a hill, offering great views of the city both day and night, with majestic mountain ranges in the distance.
I was a school teacher here for 25 years, starting in Japanese public schools before transitioning to an American institution.
I understand that when traveling abroad, many people prefer a local tour guide. While I wasn’t born in Japan, after nearly three decades here, I consider myself as local as it gets! Not only can I share insights about the local culture, but I can also offer a unique perspective as a foreigner who has grown to love this country as my own.
With our comfortable 4x4 full leather interior SUV, we’ll explore hidden gems that typical tour buses can’t reach, making your experience even more special.
On our way to the sites, I’ll describe anything that catches your eye so you don’t miss a thing. I know that returning back from a great trip can feel like the end of something special, so if there’s anything I can do to make the ride more enjoyable, just let me know. On the way back, feel free to play any music you like on the BOSE sound system in the car.
Reviews
Gobby W.
“Wonderful Tour Experience ”
Steve is one of the most professional and fun tour guides we have experienced in Japan. We are frequent traveler and have visited Japan different regions in Japan in the past few years. There are many local English tour services in Japan, but I have not met someone like Steve who can share the local stories, life in Japan (over 30 years living in Japan), and secret attractions that you won't be able to find on the Internet (even for the local Japanese). If you are looking for an English speaking tour guide in Kumamoto prefecture, Steve is the guy you want to be with. You are not only getting the tour service with Steve, but you can also explore the culture, learning the language, and not to worry about missing any of the best photo spot during your trip with Steve. :)
Steve R.
Thank you so much for the review. It was a pleasure taking all of you to the Aso Caldera. You were great guests and I hope you all had a great time in Japan after your departure from Kumamoto.
Abdulrahman A.
“Unforgettable One Piece Statue Tour – A Dream Come True!”
This tour was the highlight of my trip to Japan! Visiting all the One Piece statues has been a dream of mine, and going with Steve made it even more special. Steve was an incredible guide — he took us to every statue and made sure we visited the gift shops to collect the exclusive figures available only at each location. Without him, We wouldn’t been able to get them all! He’s been living in Japan for over 30 years and is extremely knowledgeable about Kumamoto and Japanese culture. Being fluent in both English and Japanese, he made the whole experience smooth, informative, and fun — something that would have been difficult to do alone. Steve is also incredibly kind and friendly. He picked us up directly from our hotel, then at the end of the tour, brought us back to drop off our things before kindly dropping us off again in the city center. That extra level of care made a big difference and was greatly appreciated. Thank you so much, Steve, for an amazing day [especially the surprise stop at Costco ;) ]. Highly recommended for any One Piece fan or anyone wanting a unique and thoughtful tour of Kumamoto!
Steve R.
Thank you so much for your kind words! We had so much fun on our trip. I think we talked about everything under the sun! I'm so glad you were my first guests from Saudi Arabia. You both taught me so much about your country and culture. I guess the only thing left to do now is for me to visit you there!
C W.
“One Piece Statue Tour”
Honestly dunno how he could of done a better job. He was great banter from start to finish with a neverending list of recommendations and advice for the rest of my trip. On top of all of that he gave me a much better understanding of the devastation the earthquake had on Kumamoto and ultimately the reason for the statues. Which just made the trip even more special. Could not recommend enough!
Steve R.
Thank you C.W.! It was great taking you to all the locations!. We had great conversations throughout the trip, I hope you win big on your next poker game!. You were my first guest ever from Scotland! I wish you a great stay on the rest of your trip in Japan.
$430/ per group
More tours by Steve R.
Other Popular Car Tour (driving guide) Tours in Kumamoto
ONE PIECE Statues Tour. All 10.
ONE PIECE Statues Tour. All 10.
Mount Aso Full Day Tour
Mount Aso Full Day Tour
Amakusa Full Day Tour
Amakusa Full Day Tour