Kikuchi Valley
菊池渓谷
Water scenery — lakes, gorges and falls that reset the pace of a trip.
What this place is
Kikuchi Valley is the located in Aso and Kikuchi, Kumamoto cities in Kumamoto Prefecture, on the island of Kyushu, Japan. It is the source of the Kikuchi River. The valley is an area known for its resorts and autumn leaves. The area around the outer rim of Mount Aso is concealed by fir, hemlock, elm, and broadleaf trees. Water from the Aso Kujū National Park has been chosen as one of Japan's top 100 sources of mineral water by the Ministry of the Environment. The area is home to several waterfalls, which have made Japan’s top 100 waterfalls list, and rapids. A number of drowning accidents have occurred in the area.
Background text from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA)
Why it is worth the trip
- Clear water that changes colour with the light, from deep blue in summer to jade after rain.
- Walkways, bridges and viewpoints built right along the water so the scenery unfolds as you move.
- Reflections of surrounding peaks and forest on calm mornings — the classic postcard shot.
What you can do here
- Walk the riverside or lakeshore promenade; most routes are flat and clearly signposted.
- Take a sightseeing boat or rent a rowboat, canoe or SUP where the water is calm.
- Photograph at golden hour, when low light makes the surface glow and crowds have thinned.
- Stop at a lookout café or rest house for local sweets with a water view.
Photos
Photos from Wikimedia Commons — click any image for the photographer and licence.
Getting there by public transport
Good to know before you go
- Paths near falls stay wet and slippery — wear shoes with grip, not sandals.
- Water volume peaks after rain and during snowmelt; the falls are far more dramatic then.
- Boat services shrink or stop in winter, so check the seasonal timetable before travelling.
Traveler reviews
No reviews yet — be the first to share how it went.