Kumamoto's Milk Road is surrounded by endless green grasslands, with the rolling Aso mountain range in the distance beneath a vast blue sky and white clouds. It feels like stepping into a landscape painting.
The road winds through pastures, and you can occasionally see herds of cows leisurely grazing on the grass. There is none of the noise and bustle of the city—just the breeze, mountain scenery, and wide-open views, creating an incredibly relaxing summer experience.
Takachiho Beef Restaurant Nagomi
Takachiho Beef is a premium wagyu that won the top honor, the Prime Minister’s Award, in the cattle division of the National Wagyu Show, held once every five years to crown Japan’s best wagyu. Only A4-grade-and-up Japanese Black cattle raised and fattened within the Takachiho District Agricultural Cooperative area can be called Takachiho Beef. This JA-operated restaurant lets you enjoy its tender texture and rich umami at a reasonable price.
I came to Miyazaki and tried Takachiho Beef yakiniku, and it was incredibly delicious! The marbling was evenly distributed, and once grilled, the beef was wonderfully aromatic. The meat was so tender that it practically melted in my mouth with almost no chewing, and it was full of juicy, savory sweetness. Every bite left me wanting more, and I could completely understand the appeal of Takachiho Beef. This wagyu meal was so satisfying. I want to come back next time!!
Ohori Park
Ohori Park is located in downtown Fukuoka City, only two stations away from Tenjin Station, but is a favorite place for citizens to relax and enjoy the abundant nature centered around a large pond.
Ohori Park is right in downtown Fukuoka. I didn't expect such a large green space in such a lively city. The lake in the center, surrounded by trees, creates a very relaxing view. As I walked along the lakeside, occasionally looking at the water and enjoying the breeze, my pace naturally slowed down. There were quite a few people jogging and walking in the park, while others sat by the lake and rested. After walking around the park, I felt it was wonderful to have a green space like this in the city, where you can temporarily set aside your itinerary and enjoy some leisurely time.
Nakadake Crater, Mount Aso (Currently Closed)
Nakadake, a 1,506-meter peak in the center of Mount Aso, is still volcanically active, offering close-up views of smoke billowing vigorously from its crater. Of Nakadake’s seven adjoining craters, Crater No. 1 is currently active and visible, and visitors can approach the edge of this massive crater, which measures approximately 4 km in circumference. When the volcanic gases clear, an emerald-green crater lake can sometimes be seen at the bottom. Its highly acidic water reaches temperatures of 50-60°C.
I came to Mount Aso expecting to see the spectacular crater up close, but due to an incident, access to the area around the crater was closed that day, so I could only view it from outside the restricted area.
Although I missed the chance to experience the volcanic landscape up close, the vast volcanic terrain was still impressive. The gray-black mountains contrasted sharply with the surrounding green grasslands, making me feel the power of nature. It left me with a little regret, but also gave me a reason to visit Aso again.
