"Nakadake Geosite" Sense the activity of the earth through and active volcano. After Aso Caldera was formed, a number of volcanos – most of them stratovolcanos – rose inside it, comprising the central cone group. In contrast to the desolate scenery immediately surrounding the crater, an enchanting landscape of meadows and plantation forests covers the volcano's slopes and foothills. Mt. Nakadake stands in the approximate center of the central cone group. One of the few volcanos in the world where observers can peer directly inside the crater, the mountain attracts a constant stream of tourists. The compound crater is aligned approximately north to south, measuring 900 m in that direction and 400 m east to west. Ancient documents and observations over the past 100 years reveal that volcanic activity shifts over time between seven craters arranged in a line. In the late 1800s the first crater was active, while from 1923 to 1930 the fourth was.

"Beautiful reconstruction of the original castle" Kumamoto Castle (熊本城, Kumamotojō) is one of the most impressive castles in Japan. With large castle grounds and a variety of buildings, Kumamoto Castle offers its visitors one of the most complete castle experiences in Japan. Only a few structures have survived the centuries since the castle's construction in 1607 intact. The castle keep and most other buildings are modern reconstructions, but the reconstructions are mostly of a high quality and new buildings are continually being added. With about 800 cherry trees, the castle becomes a popular cherry blossom spot usually in late March and early April.