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Kyushu

A 4-Day Exploration of the Volcanic Landscapes of Kyushu

Co-adaptation

Photo copyright: ©Aso Geopark Promotion Council

 

Kyushu’s active volcanic geography has shaped a land where life continually adapts. This four-day journey explores how people and plants coexist in these dynamic landscapes, reflecting the GREEN×EXPO 2027 subtheme of Co-adaptation. Visitors can hike through blooming azaleas, witness volcanic peaks and grasslands, engage in conservation practices, and relax in geothermal hot springs.
 

Day 1: Hiking the peaks of Oita

 

Take a train to Tokyo, and fly from Haneda Airport to Kumamoto Airport, then drive about two hours to Mt. Taisen in Taketa, Oita Prefecture. Explore trails where seasonal Miyama Kirishima azaleas bloom along volcanic slopes. The hike highlights how volcanic soil and controlled grazing promote rich biodiversity. 

 

Photo credit: 撮影者:Matsumoto Takashi 媒体名:Yama-Kei Online

 

After the hike, drive about 45 minutes to the Aso area for an overnight stay, enjoying local hot springs and panoramic mountain views.
 

Day 2: Exploring volcanic landscapes in Kumamoto

 

Start the day by driving about an hour to Takadake and other peaks within Aso-Kuju National Park in Kumamoto Prefecture. Guided hikes afford views of steaming vents, calderas, and rolling grasslands formed by centuries of volcanic activity. 

 

 

Through the active exploration of the area, learn how communities and ecosystems thrive together in these dynamic landscapes. Spend the night at a traditional onsen accommodation.
 

Day 3: Grassland conservation in Kumamoto

 

Visit the Aso Grassland Conservation Center to learn about grassland ecosystems and how they are maintained, as well as participate in hands-on activities. There are seasonal workshops using Japanese pampas grass and opportunities to observe the wildlife. 

 

 

Stay in the nearby Aso area and enjoy local farm-to-table cuisine and geothermal baths, all sustained by the fertile volcanic environment.
 

Day 4: Healing and reflection in Nagasaki

 

Drive about three hours to Unzen Onsen in Nagasaki Prefecture, known for its mineral-rich hot springs and dramatic volcanic scenery. Explore the Unzen Hells, an area of steaming vents and boiling pools, before continuing to the Unzen Disaster Memorial Hall in Shimabara to learn about past eruptions and community resilience.

 

©Expo 2027

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