Kusasenri
草千里ヶ浜
A grassland in an ancient crater on Mt. Aso, about 1 km across, with rainwater ponds in the middle. Grazing horses and the plume of Nakadake make a classic scene.
Kusasenri Shore sits on Mt. Aso, on the north foot of Mt. Eboshi, at about 1,140 m above sea level. It is a round grassland formed by an ancient crater, about 1 km across, with two shallow rainwater ponds at its centre. Horses graze on the grass, and in the distance the white volcanic plume of Nakadake rises slowly. It is Aso's most representative view. Visitors can stroll along the grassland paths or sign up for a horse ride at the stables, a leading-by-hand experience of about 10 to 15 minutes. On a clear day you can climb nearby Mt. Eboshi. Across the grassland is the Aso Volcano Museum, which explains volcanic structures through live camera feeds and video, and is good for children. The rest area beside the car park serves Aso Akaushi beef dishes and ice cream. The grassland is free to enter, but the car park charges a fee. Getting there: from JR Aso Station, take a bus toward Aso-san Nishi Station and get off at 'Kusasenri,' about 30 minutes. If you drive, take Aso Mountain Road (Prefectural Route 111) up the mountain. You can combine it with Nakadake Crater and Komezuka for a half-day trip.
Opening hours
Open all day (riding and other facilities approx. 09:00–17:00)
Nearby sights
- Aso Volcano Museum
- Komezuka
- Mt. Aso Nakadake Crater
- Aso Farm Land
- Shirakawa Spring
- Aso Shrine
- Uchinomaki Onsen
- Takamori Yusui Tunnel Park