On the boat trip from Misumi Port, the weather was absolutely beautiful, and we had clear views of the magnificent Amakusa Gokyo along the way. These beautifully designed bridges stretch gracefully across the blue sea, linking islands of all sizes and creating a captivating seascape. Sitting on the deck with the sea breeze, gazing at the bridges in the distance and the sea blending into the sky, made me feel more open and relaxed. It’s a soothing view you shouldn’t miss when visiting Amakusa.
Amakusa Gokyo (Pearl Line) | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人
Other Reviews by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人
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Aso Kumamoto Airport
Kumamoto’s gateway to the skies, with a future vision of becoming the “Kyushu Central Gateway Open to the World and the Region.” In 2023, a new passenger terminal building opened, integrating domestic and international terminal functions. It features the latest facilities to help reduce congestion, including self-check-in machines and smart lanes. The airport has also been praised for its user-first convenience, with amenities such as a kids’ space for families and workspaces for business travelers.
Landing at Aso Kumamoto Airport was a really great experience. Compared with crowded large airports, there are far fewer travelers here, and the entire terminal is very new and stylishly designed. Direct buses are available right outside the entrance, making it easy to reach downtown Kumamoto. Transportation is very convenient.
While waiting for my return flight, I couldn't resist spending a little extra time in the extensive food court. I tried a local horse meat croquette that was crispy on the outside and rich inside, and also bought some Kumamon sweets with super cute designs. From arrival to departure, the whole experience was comfortable and relaxing. It's a perfect airport that makes you want to visit again and again.
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Takamori Yusui Tunnel Park
This park features a 550-meter section of the approximately 2-kilometer Takamori Yusui Tunnel, known for its abundant spring water. The tunnel's original purpose was to be part of a railway project by the former Japanese National Railways. However, the construction faced numerous water inflow incidents, leading to its eventual abandonment. Today, the tunnel has been repurposed into a park, allowing visitors to walk along the path inside and learn about the importance of water and the tunnel's history at the water museum "Yusui-kan."
We stopped by Takamori because we were heading to Takachiho Gorge. It’s also the starting point of the Minamiaso Railway. As soon as you arrive at the station, you’re greeted by an eye-catching bronze statue of Franky from One Piece. Together with the Minamiaso Railway’s distinctive trains, railway fans will have a hard time putting their cameras down.
If you have the chance to come by train, I highly recommend also visiting the nearby Takamori Yusui Tunnel Park. This tunnel was originally intended for a railway line, but after pure groundwater began springing from it, it became a unique and refreshing attraction. Walking through the tunnel, which stays at a comfortable temperature year-round, listening to the flowing water, and admiring the elaborate displays on both sides is relaxing and pleasant. It’s a nice place to experience both the scenery of the Minamiaso Railway and the appeal of the clear spring water.
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Takachiho Gorge
Takachiho Gorge is a narrow v-shaped chasm made over thousands of years by the Gokase River’s erosion of Mt. Aso’s volcanic rock. This spectacular place is surrounded by cliffs that average 80 meters in height (reaching up to 100 meters) and extend along for 7 kilometers. Takachiho Gorge has been designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty.
I had long heard about the magnificent scenery of Takachiho Gorge, but it wasn't until I visited in person that I truly felt its impact and beauty. It was deeply captivating and incredibly soothing.
I especially captured one classic view: Manai Falls, like a strand of white silk, gently cascading into the deep emerald-green gorge. The scenery was so beautiful it hardly seemed real. Whenever I look back at the photos, the light, shadows, and atmosphere from that day remain vivid, as though they were deeply etched into my mind. This one-of-a-kind, breathtaking gorge, shaped by the extraordinary forces of nature and paired with just the right enchanting light and shadows, is truly a profound memory that will last a lifetime.
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