Yamanami Highway Scenic Drive

A scenic drive from Chojobaru to Aso along "The Rooftop of Kyushu"

Along the scenic Yamanami Highway, you will see beautiful vistas of the Kuju mountain range and Tadewara Marsh. Enjoy the grasslands sprawling between Mount Io, Mount Mimata (1,745 m) and Mount Hossho (1,762 m) in the distance.

As you drive from Chojabaru Onsen, the slopes of Mount Hossho draw closer. After about a 10-minute drive, you will reach the highest point on the Yamanami Highway—Makinoto Pass (1,333 m). From the pass you can see spectacular views of blooming flowers during spring and summer, colorful foliage during fall and frosted grasslands during winter. As you descend to the Senomoto Plateau, the Aso Gogaku Five Peaks will come into view. The views on the Yamanami Highway have earned it the name "The Rooftop of Kyushu."

Highlights

A straight highway with fine views of the Kuju mountain range

The view from Chojabaru

The view from Chojabaru on the Yamanami Highway takes in sights such as the steaming, sulfurous Mount Io, one of several volcanoes in the Kuju mountain range.

An observatory offering spectacular vistas

Makinoto Pass

Makinoto Pass (1,330 m) is the highest point on the Yamanami Highway. To reach the observatory, take the hiking trail that leads from the parking lot for lofty views of Tadewara Marsh and the slopes of Mount Kutsukake (1,503 m). Cast your gaze toward Mount Hossho, where bright pink Kyushu azaleas bloom in June. In October and November, the mountain's slopes turn red and gold hues. You will find a shop and restrooms near the Makinoto Pass parking lot.

Sprawling grasslands and a mountainous landscape

The Senomoto Plateau and Aso Gogaku Five Peaks

The vast grasslands of the Senomoto Plateau encircle Aso City. This is a good place to see expansive views of the Kuju mountain range. The Aso Gogaku Five Peaks can be seen in the distance spouting volcanic steam.

Route Map

Yamanami Highway Scenic Drive

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