Hello everyone! I'm the editor from Mova Villa.
Many friends ask me, "Is it necessary to rent a car when visiting Kumamoto?"
My answer is usually only one: "If you want to see the real Kumamoto, driving yourself is the only way!"
Today I'm going to share with you why Kumamoto is the best place in Japan for a road trip.
📍 Getting to know Kumamoto: Why is a self-driving tour the best option?
Kumamoto is located in the very center of Kyushu and has a very diverse topography. To the east lies the world-class active volcano "Mount Aso", while to the west lies the beautiful "Amakusa" seascape.
Why is driving recommended?
- Stunning views inaccessible by public transport: such as Milk Road, known as the "Skywalk," or hidden hot springs nestled in the mountains, where bus services are extremely infrequent or nonexistent.
- Luggage relief: Kumamoto’s guesthouses (especially villas like our Mova Villa) are mostly located in spacious and quiet areas, making it easy to drive around with your spoils.
- Flexible timing: Want to stop and take pictures of cattle on the Aso Grassland? Discover a cute little shop near the Yuanshui Station and want to go in for coffee? Driving allows you to "jump out" anytime and experience surprises.
A suggested one-day self-driving route in Asu
This route starts in the Otsu/Gaishi/Harasu area and takes you from lower to higher elevations to explore the highlights:
First stop: Mount Aso, Kussenri
Then drive south towards the volcano's core. In Kusasenri, you can ride horses, take walks, and admire the striking contrast between the white smoke rising from the crater and the lush green meadows. It's a fantastic spot for taking photos and a must-visit for Instagrammers.
Second stop: Milk Road & Grand View Peak
We set off at dawn, driving along the "Milk Road" that winds through the grasslands.
The view here is superb, with endless greenery on both sides.
Upon arriving at Daikanbo , you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the famous "Aso Five Peaks" Buddha statues in their sleeping postures.
💡Tip: If you're lucky, you might even see a sea of clouds in the early morning!
Third stop: Shirakawa Water Source & Minami-Aso Lunch
From the mountain, we turned towards Minami-Aso to visit the Shirakawa Spring, one of Japan's 100 Famous Waters . The water here is sweet and clear, and can be drunk directly. At noon, we found a local Wagyu beef restaurant nearby and had a super hearty bowl of "Akagyu Don".
Fourth stop: Hot spring therapy time
On the way back, it's perfect to plan a relaxing trip. I recommend two hot spring bathhouses that I really enjoy visiting.
Here are two hot spring bathhouses that I frequent.
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Kikuyo Onsen Sansan no Yu : An affordable hot spring bathhouse with various types of baths and a gym. The ticket price is also very reasonable at ¥450.
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Onsen Cafe : A popular hot spring bathhouse loved by locals, where you can enjoy not only bathing but also rock bathing. The interior features a lounge area, massage chairs, and a relaxation area with a view. The establishment also offers a vast collection of manga, ensuring a truly relaxing experience.
🚗 Driving Tips
- Navigation settings: It is recommended to use Google Maps in conjunction with the car's navigation system for double protection.
- Rest stop culture: Kumamoto's "Michi no Eki" (roadside rest stops) are great for exploring!
🏠 My home during my trip to Kumamoto: Mova Villa
Planning your itinerary? Now for accommodation! Want to experience "living in Kumamoto"? Mova Villa offers cozy villas in Koshi, Haramizu, Okino, and Otsu. Whether it's a family trip or a group of friends, the spaciousness will amaze you. If you're traveling with two or three families, we even have adjacent detached villas where everyone can stay next door, chat together in the living room in the evening, yet still maintain their own privacy. There are also fully equipped kitchens where you can buy Kumamoto Wagyu beef from the supermarket and grill it yourself!
🌸Cherry blossom season and Golden Week bookings are in full swing! Message us now to reserve your Kumamoto road trip!
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