Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho Gorge is one of Kyushu’s most famous scenic spots. It is a canyon formed when pyroclastic flows erupted by volcanic activity at Mt. Aso spread in a belt-like shape along the Gokase River, then cooled rapidly and solidified. In 1934 (Showa 9), it was designated a National Natural Monument. Sheer cliffs reaching 80 meters high stretch for about 7 kilometers east to west, with multiple scenic highlights along the route. Walking the promenade through nature and an atmosphere filled with negative ions makes it a deeply refreshing destination. Access by public transportation: from JR Hakata Station, take the “Gokaze-go” highway bus (reservation required), 4 services/day, about 3.5 hours; from JR Kumamoto Station, take special express buses “Aso-go / Takachiho-go” (reservation required), 2 services/day, about 3 hours; from JR Nobeoka Station, take a local bus, about 1.5 hours; from JR Miyazaki Station, a limited-period highway bus (reservation required) operates, about 2 hours 40 minutes. By car: about 1.5 hours from Kyushu Expressway “Matsubase IC” via Route 218, or about 40 minutes from Kyushu Chuo Expressway “Kurata IC” via Route 218.