I’m intern Shenny, and today I’m going to talk about a must-visit attraction for self-driving tours – Daguan Peak.
Daikanbo (大観峰), located in Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture, sits at an elevation of about 936 meters and is the highest point along the northern rim of the Aso caldera. From this panoramic viewpoint, you can enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Aso Five Peaks, the Kuju Mountain Range, and the vast farmlands of the region—making it one of the most spectacular spots in Aso National Park.
🚗 Access to Daikanbo: A Scenic Drive Worth Taking
Driving from Michi-no-Eki Aso (道の駅阿蘇), it takes around 30 minutes to reach the park entrance. The final 15-minute stretch features a winding mountain road that feels like it’s leading you into a hidden world shrouded in clouds and mist.
If you’re traveling by car, I highly recommend stopping by the Aso Milk Factory (阿蘇ミルクファクトリー) at the base of the mountain—a perfect stop for fresh dairy products and a relaxing break. (We cover it in detail in another blog.)
☁️ Rainy Days Turn Into Magic: Aso’s Misty Wonderland
When we arrived, light rain had just stopped, and a thick fog enveloped the mountains. The air was cool and crisp, and the strong wind added to the refreshing atmosphere without being unpleasant. The distant mountain ridges were hidden by mist, creating a mysterious, otherworldly scene that felt like walking into a fantasy film.
Though we couldn’t see far, the dense white fog added a surreal, dreamlike quality to the whole area—like stepping into a hidden realm.
🎎 Quirky Local Culture: Dressing Up the Stone Statues
Along the way, we came across several stone statues, lovingly dressed by locals in tiny clothes, scarves, and even wool hats—perhaps to “keep them warm” in the chilly mountain air. It reminded me of how, back in Taiwan during the pandemic, people would put masks on campus statues. These playful touches brought a smile and added a sense of warmth and connection.
🧳 Feels Like Home: Aso’s Popularity Among Taiwanese Tourists
During our visit, I constantly heard conversations in Mandarin. I almost thought I was still in Taiwan! It turns out that Aso has become a favorite travel spot for Taiwanese visitors. The accessible location, beautiful landscape, and sense of peace make it an ideal escape from urban stress.
🪂 Paragliding Over the Aso Caldera: A Bucket-List Adventure
One of the highlights of Aso is the chance to experience paragliding. On clear days, you can soar over the vast Aso caldera and take in aerial views of the Aso Five Peaks and the surrounding plains—something many travelers call a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
If you’re into outdoor activities and thrills, consider booking a paragliding session in advance. It’s a great way to see Aso from a whole new perspective.
📸 Whether You Chase Clouds or Views, Aso Will Amaze You
Whether you’re here to photograph cloud formations, view the volcanic terrain, or simply get away from the noise of city life, Aso National Park offers a unique and unforgettable journey. With short travel times and well-maintained roads, it’s a perfect destination for self-driving visitors looking to explore southern Japan’s natural beauty.
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