Winter Scenery · Kyushu

Kusasenri Rime Ice (Aso)

Kumamoto & AsoRime ice❄ Best season: Late Nov – Mid Feb
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Overview

Overview

Kusasenrigahama is a grassland spreading across the slopes of Mt. Aso at about 1,100 m above sea level. On cold winter mornings the trees are coated in hoarfrost and the area turns into a silvery white world, completely different from the usual green grassland.

Peak Time

When to Go

Best seasonUsually late November to mid-February (mornings are best)
November
December
January
February

Hoarfrost and snow depend on the weather, and there are days when they cannot be seen. Check the road conditions on the plateau before you set out

Seasons are typical guides. Snow, ice and drift ice depend heavily on each year’s weather.

Highlights

Highlights

On cold mornings, flower-like hoarfrost forms on the trees, and the pond in the grassland sometimes freezes over completely. The highlight is the contrast between the clear blue winter sky and the white snow and hoarfrost.

📷 Best views
Kusasenrigahama grassland and pond

A snowfield with hoarfrost-covered trees and a frozen pond

Admission

Admission & fares

ParkingPaid

Prices may change. Check the official website before you go.

Tips

Tips for travelers

  • ✓Hoarfrost melts as the temperature rises, so it is best to arrive early in the morning
Access

Getting there

Nearest station / bus stop
  • Kusasenri Aso Kazan Hakubutsukan-mae bus stopAbout 30 min by local bus from JR Aso Station
From major stations & airports
  • Central Kumamoto: Car (About 80 min)
  • Kumamoto Airport: Car (About 50 min)
  • Kumamoto IC: Car (via National Route 57) (About 1 hr 20 min)
Driving & winter roads
Paid parking available. Plateau roads may have snow or ice in winter, so check road information before heading to higher ground
Open in Google Maps ↗
Crowds

Crowds & best times

Quieter times
Morning is recommended in official information
Weather

Temperature & staying warm

Typical temperatures
January normals for Kumamoto: high 10.7°C, low 1.6°C; February: high 12.4°C, low 2.6°C (Japan Meteorological Agency). Kusasenri is a plateau at about 1,100 m, much colder than Kumamoto City
What to wear & bring
Strong winds on the plateau make it feel colder, so bring a down jacket, gloves and a hat. Wear non-slip shoes in case of snow and ice
Attractions

Attractions in Kumamoto & Aso

Zoo

Aso Cuddly Dominion

Kyushu ・ Kumamoto & Aso

A zoo in Aso City where you can interact with 350 animals of 60 species. It centers on animal shows and close-contact facilities with bear cubs, capybaras, and penguins. It's about 1.5 km from JR Aso Station, and highway buses between Kumamoto and Oita/Beppu stop in front of the park.

Winter Scenery

Winter Scenery in Kyushu

Frozen waterfall & icicles

Kogano Falls Ice (Aso)

Kyushu ・ Kumamoto & Aso

❄ Best season: Mid Jan – Late Feb

✦ Illumination

Seasons, hours, prices and access are based on official sources such as the spot’s own website, local governments and tourism associations. Winter weather often causes suspensions and road closures, so check the official website before you go.

Last checked: 2026-10-06