Autumn in Aso: 3 Instagram-Worthy Silvergrass Spots in the Aso Grasslands
Autumn in Aso means fields upon fields of almost cinematic silvergrass. Read for the inside scoop from top local Instagrammers on the best photogenic locations to visit.
As Kumamoto’s oppressive summer heat subsides, the urge to explore intensifies.
Autumn in Aso is defined by its expansive fields of silver grass, covering over 20,000 hectares. By October, these fields transform into a golden tapestry of autumn hues, truly a sight to behold.
Today, I’m sharing some of the top spots to enjoy Aso’s silvergrass pasture, as recommended by popular local Instagram accounts.
Spot 1: Susuki no Meiro “The Silver Grass Maze”—Recommended by Aso City’s Official Instagram
Directly across from Kabutoiwa Scenic Overlook (かぶと岩展望所) is the Susuki no Meiro or Silvergrass Maze. Here, the grass is trimmed into an intricate maze where you can lose yourself in the beauty of the landscape. With two courses, the 300-meter “A Course” and the shorter 150-meter “B Course,” each offers a delightful challenge.
Susuki no Meiro (ススキの迷路)—Silvergrass Maze
Best time to go: Silvergrass is generally in its prime in October but generally still enjoyable to visit from September through November
Location: Nishikozono, Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture (熊本県阿蘇市西小園) [Google Maps]
Admission: Free
Parking: Available at Kabutoiwa Scenic Overlook
Spot 2: Yume Daichi Green Valley—Recommended by REINA
Spanning an area as vast as 32 baseball stadiums, Yume Daichi Green Valley provides a cinematic experience right on horseback. Known as a filming location for several movies, including “Kingdom,” the valley is particularly enchanting during a sunset trek.
Yume Daichi Green Valley (夢·大地グリーンバレー)
Location: 1674-18 Yunoura, Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture (熊本県阿蘇市湯浦1674-18) [Google Maps]
Phone: 090-1773-3366
Fee: 16,500 yen for a 60-minute sunset trek
Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Parking: Available
Spot 3: Oshitoishi Hill – Recommended by Kumamoto’s Banksy🎈
In Minamioguni Town, near Mazeno Valley, lies Oshitoishi Hill. The area is dotted with ancient stones, including some with markings that are said to resemble cuneiform inscriptions, hinting at potential historical significance as a site of ancient worship. Perhaps it is Japan’s Stonehenge? The blend of mystical stones and majestic plains is sure to rejuvenate any visitor.
Oshitoishi Hill (押戸石の丘)
Location: 511 Nakabaru, Minamioguni Town, Aso-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture (熊本県阿蘇郡南小国町中原511) [Google Maps]
Phone: 0967-42-1444
Admission: 300 yen for adults, free for children
Parking: Available
These Instagrammer-endorsed scenic spots are perfect for your autumn visits to Aso. Use this guide to plan a memorable trip, and stay tuned for more travel insights in my upcoming posts. Enjoy exploring!
The above was translated and adapted from an article on our Japanese-language sister website ALT Kumamoto. For the original content, see the article below!
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