「米塚」という名前は、阿蘇神話の登場人物である健磐龍命(たけいわたつのみこと)が阿蘇中の米を集めて山にし、頂上を手ですくって人々に分け与えたという伝説に由来します。斜面は柔らかな草原に覆われているので、春から夏にかけては緑一色に染まり、美しい景色を見ることができます。
1 / 10

Komezuka

4.4
·235 reviews·Aso, Japan

A charming, perfectly shaped volcanic cone in the Aso Caldera, famous for its lush green slopes and stunning sunset views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for photos

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
「米塚」という名前は、阿蘇神話の登場人物である健磐龍命(たけいわたつのみこと)が阿蘇中の米を集めて山にし、頂上を手ですくって人々に分け与えたという伝説に由来します。斜面は柔らかな草原に覆われているので、春から夏にかけては緑一色に染まり、美しい景色を見ることができます。

Komezuka

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming, perfectly shaped volcanic cone in the Aso Caldera, famous for its lush green slopes and stunning sunset views. Instagram+1

4.4
(235 reviews)

"This volcano hill never fails to impress me. Visited for the third time to see this adorable hill."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit in the late afternoon for the best light and stunning sunset views. :camerawithflash:

🌿 Embrace the Green

Spring and summer offer vibrant green landscapes, making the cone look even more picturesque. :evergreen_tree:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Adorable Volcanic Cone

The Adorable Volcanic Cone

Komezuka Hill

A perfectly shaped, 50-meter high volcanic cone resembling a cute, green mound. It's a photographer's dream!

Instagram+1
Lush Green Slopes

Lush Green Slopes

Surrounding Komezuka

Vibrant green grass blankets the gentle slopes, especially striking in spring and summer.

Instagram
Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Komezuka Hill

The hill offers stunning vistas as the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the landscape.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for That Perfect Shot

Komezuka's charm shines brightest during the golden hours before sunset, offering breathtaking light for photos. Visit during spring or summer for lush green slopes, but be prepared for unpredictable weather year-round. Instagram+1

Embrace the Aso Caldera Experience

Komezuka is part of the larger Aso Caldera, one of the world's biggest. While the main crater might be restricted, the surrounding landscapes, including Komezuka's gentle slopes, are still incredibly scenic and worth exploring. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring/Summer
Why
Lush green scenery
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Beautiful fall colors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mont Komezuka ! 🌋 ☘️ 😮 Le volcan le plus mignon de tout le Japon ! 😍 Quand on a découvert le Mont Komezuka dans le sud du Japon, ça m’a directement fait penser à Volvic et l’image du volcan qu’ils ont sur leurs bouteilles ! 😅 Ne vous y trompez pas, j’ai été vérifié et ce n’est pas le même, bien que ce soit une copie conforme ! 👌🏻 Et ici au Japon, le mont Komezuka est associé à un bol de riz à cau...
foxtrotteurs
841 likes • 27.7K views

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit in the late afternoon for the best light and stunning sunset views. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🌿 Embrace the Green

Spring and summer offer vibrant green landscapes, making the cone look even more picturesque. Instagram :evergreen_tree:

Have you seen a volcanic landscape like this? Komezuka is a picturesque volcano nestled within the vast Aso Caldera — one of the largest calderas in the world. Its gentle slopes are especially striking in spring and summer, when they’re blanketed in vibrant green grass. 📷 @‌issey_tanaka #VisitJapanAU #VisitJP_GoFurther #Kumamoto #Aso #Komezuka #Nature #GloballyImportantAgriculturalHeritageSyste...
visitjapanau
179 likes • 7.7K views
朝日を受ける米塚#阿蘇 #aso #米塚 #komezuka
nakagawa.328
69 likes • 501 views

🌦️ Weather Preparedness

Mount Aso weather is unpredictable; be ready for sun, rain, or even hail in a single day! Instagram :umbrella:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Vicinity

Walking trails around Komezuka offer different perspectives of this unique volcanic landscape. TikTok

Mount Aso made us experienced spring, snow, hail, and rain all in one day. Unpredictable, yet breathtaking! ⛰️✨ 📍 Photo spots worth stopping for: 1. Kusasenri: a scenic grass-covered plateau 2. Komezuka: cone-shaped volcano that looks just like 🍮 3. Daikanbo Lookout: panoramic views along the famed Aso Milk Road 🥛 4. Nishiyunouraenchi Observatory: a private spot with a small entrance fee! .
.
#ip...
daisiesunrays
0 likes • 697 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit in the late afternoon for the best light and stunning sunset views. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🌿 Embrace the Green

Spring and summer offer vibrant green landscapes, making the cone look even more picturesque. Instagram :evergreen_tree:

🌦️ Weather Preparedness

Mount Aso weather is unpredictable; be ready for sun, rain, or even hail in a single day! Instagram :umbrella:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Vicinity

Walking trails around Komezuka offer different perspectives of this unique volcanic landscape. TikTok

🚗 Scenic Drives

Komezuka is often part of scenic drives like the Aso Milk Road, offering more beautiful views. Instagram :car:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(235 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Komezuka for its unique, adorable volcanic cone and the stunning, picturesque landscapes surrounding it. Many return multiple times, captivated by its beauty, especially during autumn and at sunset. Some note the unpredictable weather as a minor drawback, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.

"This volcano hill never fail to impressive me. Visited for the third time to see this adorable hill."

Hwon

"Cute little volcano hill, visited during beginning of December."

Nathan Chen

"Best view at evening before sunset"

Xiao Xiao

What People Like

Cute, perfect cone shape
Beautiful green slopes
Stunning sunset views

What People Dislike

Unpredictable weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Komezuka is by car, as it's part of the scenic Aso Milk Road. From Kumamoto city, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Public transport is limited, but you can take a bus to Aso Station and then potentially a local bus or taxi, though this can be time-consuming. Instagram+1

Public transport to Komezuka itself is quite limited. While buses run to the broader Aso area, you'll likely need a taxi or to rent a car for the final leg to reach the volcano directly. Reddit

The Aso Milk Road is a famous scenic driving route in the Aso region, known for its rolling hills and beautiful landscapes. Komezuka is a popular stop along this route. Instagram

Yes, there are usually parking areas available near Komezuka, especially during peak seasons. It's advisable to arrive early if you're visiting during a busy period. TikTok

While possible, it's a long day trip. Driving from Fukuoka to Komezuka can take around 3-4 hours one way. It's more comfortably experienced as part of an overnight stay in the Aso region. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Komezuka itself is a natural landmark and typically does not have an entrance fee. Access to the surrounding areas and any specific facilities might vary, but viewing the volcano cone is generally free. Instagram

As an outdoor natural attraction, Komezuka is accessible at all times. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours is recommended. Instagram

No, advance booking is not required for Komezuka as it's a natural site. You can visit spontaneously, though checking weather conditions beforehand is wise. Instagram

While Komezuka itself is usually open, the broader Aso region can sometimes have access restrictions due to volcanic activity. Always check local advisories before your visit. Reddit

Absolutely! Komezuka is a popular spot for quick photo opportunities due to its unique shape and scenic surroundings. You can get great shots in a short amount of time. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The golden hours, just before sunset, offer the most magical light for photographing Komezuka. Early morning can also provide beautiful, soft light. InstagramReddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire cone and surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing distant views within the Aso Caldera. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in national parks or protected areas before flying. Instagram

The classic shot is from the road, showcasing the perfect cone shape. Exploring the walking paths can offer unique perspectives from slightly higher or different angles. Instagram+1

Yes, Komezuka offers distinct photographic opportunities year-round. Spring and summer boast lush green, while autumn brings beautiful fall colors. Even winter can offer a stark, beautiful landscape. Instagram+1

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

You can admire the unique volcanic cone, take photos, and enjoy the scenic views. There are walking trails around the hill for a closer look and to explore the surrounding grasslands. TikTok

While there are walking paths around Komezuka, it's more of a gentle stroll than a strenuous hike. The focus is on enjoying the scenery and the unique shape of the volcano. TikTok

A visit to Komezuka can be as short as 30 minutes for a quick photo stop, or up to 1-2 hours if you plan to walk around the base and enjoy the views. Instagram

Facilities are generally limited directly at Komezuka. You might find restrooms and small shops or cafes at nearby attractions like Kusasenri-ga-hama. It's best to be prepared. Instagram

Crowds can vary. Weekends and holidays, especially during peak seasons like autumn, can be busier. Visiting on a weekday or during shoulder seasons might offer a more peaceful experience. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Komezuka is a fantastic spot for families looking for a visually engaging and easy-to-explore natural attraction. The perfectly shaped, gentle cone is captivating for children, often sparking their imagination. Instagram The surrounding grasslands offer space for kids to move around, and the relatively short walking paths make it manageable for little legs. TikTok

Tips for families: Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and consider visiting during the day when visibility is best. The scenic drive to Komezuka is also part of the adventure, with plenty of other beautiful landscapes to see in the Aso region. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

Komezuka is an absolute must-visit for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts seeking unique, picturesque landscapes. Its iconic, symmetrical cone shape and the vibrant green slopes (especially in spring/summer) make for stunning shots. Instagram+1 The best time for photography is undoubtedly the golden hour before sunset, offering dramatic lighting and breathtaking views. Reddit

Pro-tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the volcano and its surroundings. Explore different angles from the walking paths for more dynamic compositions. Don't forget to check the weather forecast, as dramatic skies can add to the photographic appeal. Instagram+1

🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers

For those exploring Kyushu by car, Komezuka is a prime stop along the renowned Aso Milk Road. This scenic route offers continuous breathtaking vistas, with Komezuka serving as a perfect, easily accessible highlight. Instagram The drive itself is an experience, winding through rolling hills and picturesque countryside. Instagram

Recommendations: Combine your visit to Komezuka with other stops along the Aso Milk Road, such as Daikanbo Lookout or Kusasenri-ga-hama. Allow ample time to pull over at various viewpoints and soak in the expansive beauty of the Aso Caldera. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology and Charm of Komezuka

Komezuka is a fascinating volcanic cone, standing at approximately 50 meters high. Its perfectly symmetrical, gentle slopes have earned it the nickname 'the cutest volcano in Japan,' drawing comparisons to iconic imagery. Instagram The volcano is part of the vast Aso Caldera, one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world, showcasing the immense geological forces that shaped this region. Instagram

Unlike more active volcanoes, Komezuka's charm lies in its serene appearance and the lush vegetation that covers its slopes, particularly vibrant during spring and summer. Instagram Visitors often remark on its almost surreal beauty, making it a popular spot for photography and a peaceful escape into nature. The surrounding grasslands add to the picturesque scenery, creating a landscape that feels both unique and inviting. Instagram+1

While the main Nakadake crater in the Aso area can sometimes be restricted due to volcanic activity, Komezuka remains accessible and offers a different, yet equally captivating, perspective of the Aso region's volcanic heritage. Reddit Its accessibility and photogenic nature make it a must-see for anyone exploring Kumamoto Prefecture. Instagram

Capturing Komezuka: Photography Tips

Komezuka is a photographer's paradise, especially during the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset. The soft, warm light accentuates the volcano's perfect cone shape and the textures of its grassy slopes. InstagramReddit Many visitors recommend visiting in the late afternoon to capture the breathtaking sunset views, which add a magical quality to the landscape. Reddit

To make the most of your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the entire volcano and its surroundings, capturing the vastness of the Aso Caldera. Instagram For more detailed shots or to focus on specific features, a telephoto lens can be useful. Experiment with different angles; while the classic view from the road is stunning, walking the nearby trails can offer unique perspectives and compositions. Instagram+1

Remember that the weather in the Aso region can be unpredictable, with conditions changing rapidly. Instagram Being prepared for sun, rain, or even hail will ensure you don't miss a photographic opportunity. Visiting during the spring and summer months will provide lush green scenery, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage, each season presenting its own unique photographic appeal. Instagram+1

Navigating the Aso Region and Komezuka

Getting to Komezuka is best achieved by car, offering the most flexibility to explore the scenic Aso region. The drive from Kumamoto city typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, and Komezuka is often a highlight along the famous Aso Milk Road. Instagram+1 While public transport options exist to reach the broader Aso area, direct access to Komezuka via bus is limited, often requiring a taxi or rental car for the final leg. Reddit

Parking is generally available near Komezuka, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to secure a spot. TikTok While Komezuka itself is a natural attraction without an entrance fee, it's part of a larger volcanic area. Visitors should always stay informed about any potential access restrictions or safety advisories related to volcanic activity in the Aso Caldera. Reddit

When visiting, be prepared for variable weather conditions, as the region is known for its unpredictable climate. Instagram While Komezuka offers walking paths, it's more about scenic enjoyment than strenuous hiking. Allocate at least an hour to fully appreciate the views and take photographs, or longer if you plan to explore nearby attractions like Kusasenri-ga-hama. Instagram+1

You may also like

1 of 2