If you're sightseeing in Aso, I definitely recommend riding the Aso Boy! at least once. The ride lasts over an hour, but it's never boring. From the moment the train pulls into the station, you'll barely put your camera down!
The entire train, from the exterior to the inside of the cars, is full of thoughtful details, with delicate, cute decorations tucked into every corner. You'll keep taking pictures of everything along the way. Kuro, the star of the train, is especially irresistible. Adults and children alike are almost all won over by him, and in the end, you'll willingly walk into the shop and switch into “keep spending” mode (lol).
The onboard shop is really popular, so if there are any limited-edition items you want, I recommend heading there as soon as you board. Many items are available only in limited quantities, and once they're sold out, they're gone. Especially when you watch the people ahead of you frantically clearing the shelves, that heartbreaking feeling of “it's right there, but I can't buy it” really stays with you! The last time I rode, it happened to be during China's October holiday, and the buying power of the tour groups was incredible. Saying they “cleared the shelves” is no exaggeration.
If you have a JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS, you can also reserve a seat directly using the online reservation service included with the pass. If you're lucky enough to reserve a seat in the first car directly behind the conductor, it's definitely a prime seat! Sitting at the very front and watching the train pass through Aso's green tunnels and forests, with scene after scene coming toward you, is an unforgettable visual feast. If you visit Aso, don't forget to come play with Kuro!
