We took a day tour through the countryside of Kyushu Island, Aso-Kuji National Park was a prime destination.
We cruised past Rice Paddies, Grasslands and Farmlands en route. The Volcano was indeed dramatic and impressive. Solid concrete bunkers strategically placed for shelter in the event of an unannounced eruption. Not sure how much safety these structures might afford should Mother Nature decide to shower us with molten lava…
The Caldera was massive, and evokes flashbacks of Bond’s Thunderball, where the good guys rappelled down the Crater to spoil SPECTRE’s plan for world domination. (Shucks, I left my Ninja outfit and Crampons back at the hotel)
After an hour of playing tourist, lunch time!! A massive dining complex was a short downhill drive away.
We had the specialities of the region.
Akaushi Beef, a breed of Wagyu indigenous to the Aso region. Grilled on Rice.
Basashi Sashimi on Rice, a specialty of Kumamoto.
This was a high-volume operation, but the food was still good and delicious.
As in Hawaii, the volcanic soil grows some fine coffee. The line for the famous Aso Coffee was Out the Door.
Aso is famous for Akaushi Cattle, and their dairy products. The line for their Ice Cream was manageable.
A bit of Milk and a Yogurt. Then some quick shopping for the nieces back home.
Thus sustained, back on the road to an Onsen town!!!
