Aso's Grandest Grassland—A Picturesque Landscape of Grazing Horses and Pools
About this spot
A magnificent grassland spread across the lower reaches of Eboshidake (烏帽子岳) and the site of an ancient crater. Rainwater pools mirror the sky, and grazing horses move peacefully through the grass—a landscape so quintessentially Aso it has become the very symbol of Aso tourism. You are free to roam the grassland, and venturing to the poolside affords views of Nakadake (中岳) rising powerfully with white smoke behind you. A popular horseback riding experience lets you traverse the grassland at a leisurely pace, and the panorama seen from horseback is extraordinary. This is grassland kept alive by the traditional practice of prescribed burning—a place where spaciousness and openness flow through time. Be sure to pause at the Kusasenri Observation Point after your walk to take in the full landscape.
Tips
The grassland paths are unpaved and may become muddy after rain, so wear sturdy walking shoes. There is no shade or wind protection in the grassland, so hats and layers are recommended. Approach grazing horses slowly and calmly; do not touch them or offer food without permission. Respecting the grazing animals is essential.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. An afternoon stroll when light softens and shadows of the horses stretch across the grass is particularly pleasant.
Access & map
〒869-1505 Kusasenri-ga-hama, Aso City, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture 熊本県阿蘇郡阿蘇市草千里ヶ浜
Model course featuring this spot
Aso: Daikanbo and Kusasenri-ga-hama—A Spectacular Panoramic Drive Through the Grand Caldera
Kumamoto
Explore features & model courses
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