Our ryokan experience at Aso: Iyasinosato 肥後街道 南阿蘇温泉 癒しの里

Iyasinosato 肥後街道 南阿蘇温泉 癒しの里

 461-94 Tateno, Minamiaso, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-1401, Japan•+81 967-23-5335

Nestled in the charming town of Minamioguni, Japan, Iyashi-no-Sato Kiyashiki offers an enchanting escape from the everyday hustle. From serene rooms to private open-air baths, here’s why this ryokan left a lasting impression.

At Iyashi-no-Sato Kiyashiki, the rooms are a true highlight. Impeccably new, they exude a sense of tranquility. The clean lines, traditional Japanese aesthetics, and thoughtful design create a cozy haven. And the private open-air bath? Pure bliss. Imagine soaking in warm water while surrounded by nature—a perfect way to unwind.

The dining experience is equally delightful. Meals are served in their charming dining area, where you’ll savor authentic Japanese cuisine. From seasonal delicacies to comforting classics, each dish is a celebration of flavors.

Start your day with a breakfast that soothes the soul. The morning spread is a delicate balance of flavors—light, yet satisfying. Picture warm soup, freshly steamed rice, and a medley of small side dishes. It’s simplicity at its best.

The full menu for dinner. Halfway through we are already full but the food is so good! 

A visual masterpiece. Lobster, elegantly plated, its sweet flesh contrasting with the vibrant garnishes.

The star of the show is the marbled wagyu beef. For non-beef enthusiasts, fear not. you can request for chicken.

An unexpected delight! Thin slices of horse meat, a daring choice for the adventurous palate.

Dessert arrives—and its a perfect ending to the meal. 

Take a leisurely stroll through the well-maintained pathways that wind around the ryokan. Heading down this staircase, is the way to the natural hot springs, where you can book a private bath. 

Imagine soaking in warm mineral-rich waters, enveloped by the crisp November air. It’s a sensory journey that rejuvenates both body and soul.

Takachiho Gorge 高千穂峡: Amaterasu Railway and the boating we missed

Amaterasu Railway  高千穂あまてらす鉄道株式会社

1425-1 Mitai, Takachiho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki 882-1101, Japan

Amaterasu railway provides a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape, making it a memorable experience for visitors.

The railway was originally known as the Takachiho Railway but was abandoned after severe damage caused by a major typhoon in 2005. Thanks to the dedication and efforts of the local community, it was restored as a sightseeing railway.

Remember to check the train schedule and buy your tickets. This is our first stop of the day.

As you pass through tunnels, laser lights create a magical atmosphere, especially popular with kids.

At the end of the route, you’ll be treated to scenic views of the valleys. Keep an eye out for the mesmerizing bubbles display! 

The train ride will follow the same route for the return journey. So, you’ll get to enjoy those scenic views both ways! 

Takachiho Gorge 高千穂峡

Mukoyama, Takachiho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki 882-1103, Japan

Takachiho Gorge is a natural wonder carved by the Gokase River. The nearly sheer cliffs, formed from volcanic basalt columns, create a dramatic setting.

The view at Takachiho is picturesque but i found the place smaller than i had expected.

Boat rowing is a must-do activity here. You can get up close to the 17-meter Manai Falls. We missed out on boat rowing due to availability, i will consider pre-booking online for this if its a must-do activity. 

Don’t forget to visit the wooden observation deck for a stunning view of the falls and the rowboats below.

Another activity to do is to catch the flowing somen at Nagashi Somen Chiho-no-ie.

We head off to Mt Aso for our ryokan experience after lunch.

Takachiho: Catching the noodle at Nagashi Somen Chiho-no-ie

Nagashi Somen Chiho-no-ie 

千穂の家 元祖流しそうめん

62-1 Mitai, Takachiho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki 882-1101, Japan

This place is a must-try for me after seeing so many Instagram posts. If you haven’t heard of it, they serve Nagashi somen noodles that flow down a bambo shoots filled with cold running water, and you catch them at the end. 

This cold noodle dish is served with a dipping sauce called tsuyu made with dashi stock and soy sauce.

In case you missed it, the somen noodles flow down a drain, and they’re caught at the end and brought to your table. 

They also offer a set meal that includes local trout, which we ordered. The trout’s flesh is incredibly sweet, making it a must-try alongside the flowing somen.

For hygiene reasons, it’s best to catch the noodles using a clean pair of chopsticks and then eat them with another pair. Keep in mind that you’ll need to wait for each group of customers to finish their order (i.e., the noodles flowing down the drain) before it’s your turn. During peak hours, the wait can be quite long.

 If you’re still hungry, dessert awaits!

Meals at Nichinan: Taikai大海 and 中央焼き肉店

 

Taikai 伊勢海老料理 大海

568-1 Miyaura, Nichinan, Miyazaki 887-0101, Japan

This place was a short distance from Sun Messe Nichinan and its highly recommended for their japanese spiny lobster. 

Its November and its when the lobster is in season from September to November.

Slimy seaweed appetiser that is sourish and grilled seashell on the house.

Interesting seashell that has another tiny shell. These shells is really hot after grilling.

Nanban fried chicken for the kids meal. This is standard japanese food.

Very chewy and tough abalone. Although the intestines are green and looked unappealing but it actually better in taste and texture than the abalone sashimi.

This is yummy and fresh.

Grilled lobster. But after tasting both, lobster sashimi would be a better choice as the meat became a little tough and dry after grilling. Though this is still good to eat. 

The lobster soup is so awesome!!!!

Very fresh and delicious sashimi. 

Due to the exchange rate, the price for the lobster set meal was so value for money. 

Fortunately for us, we were able to walk-in and seated without waiting. Food was served speedily. Overall, we really enjoyed our lunch here. I will definitely recommend having a meal here.  

中央焼き肉店

Japan, 〒887-0021 Miyazaki, Nichinan, Chuodori, 2 Chome−５−13

This is a last minute dinner place found by my sister while passing through the town. We were the only ones having yakiniku for dinner as the kids wanted MacDonalds. 

You need to climb up a very steep staircase to get to this shop. Be warned the owners can only speak japanese. But we managed by pointing what we want on the menu. 

The customers here seemed to be regulars as the owner will converse with the customers while preparing the yakiniku.

We ate this. But after trying it we felt that this is probably used to clean the griddle or something as its not on the menu and its really tough to chew. 

The different parts of meat for yakiniku.

Self grilling in progress.  

The meal is good and as usual le hubs is raving at the price after the meal.