Kuju Highland

Kuju Highland stretches across the volcanic plateau of Aso-Kuju National Park in Oita Prefecture, offering some of Kyushu's most expansive and accessible mountain scenery. The rolling grasslands, maintained by controlled burning each spring, create vast open landscapes backed by the jagged peaks of the Kuju mountain range. In June, the hillsides turn pink and purple with wild miyama-kirishima azaleas, while autumn brings golden susuki pampas grass swaying in the highland breeze. Several well-marked hiking trails lead to hot spring sources and mountain huts, and the Makinoto Pass offers a panoramic viewpoint accessible by car. The highland is dotted with onsen ryokan that make use of the abundant geothermal activity, offering outdoor baths with mountain views.