Kumamoto
Aso

<p>From the trail at the top, there are great views of Mt. Aso spewing out ash.</p>

From the trail at the top, there are great views of Mt. Aso spewing out ash. (Photo: Sandra Isaka)

Kumamoto
Aso

Kumamoto's Laputa-no-michi

A narrow, winding road with amazing views of Mt. Aso

Sandra Isaka Feb 01, 2015 - 1 min read

<p>From the trail at the top, there are great views of Mt. Aso spewing out ash.</p>

<p>The road should only be navigated in a small vehicle..</p>

<p>Although only wide enough for one car, be aware that it is a two-way road.</p>

<p>A view of Laputa-no-michi from the top.</p>

<p>The walking trail in winter. For a completely different view, visit in summer when the fields are a lush green.</p>

<p>Fields along the 'Milk Road', which Laputa-no-michi runs into at its top.</p>

<p>Residents of a nearby farm.</p>

<p>Along the 'Milk Road', an old wagon at this farm gives an impression that one has traveled to the western part of the USA.</p>

<p>When in the area, also visit the famous Aso Shrine, which is not far from the bottom of Laputa-no-michi.</p>

When driving in the Aso area of Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, be sure to travel up Laputa-no-michi, or 'Laputa's Road'. This narrow, winding road climbs past grassy fields, sometimes through a layer of clouds, toward a ridge line with amazing views of Mt. Aso. The road is named after the floating island, Laputa, which is featured in the Ghibli animation movie, 'Castle in the Sky'. Stop at the top end of the road and take a walk along the short, but extremely scenic trail.

Sandra Isaka

Sandra Isaka @sandra.isaka

As an intercultural consultant & Japan travel specialist with 20 years in Japan, I love sharing my favorite places with others.