If you are planning a trip to Kumamoto with high-energy kids, there is one place that needs to be on your radar: Aso Farm Land.
Located in the heart of the Aso-Kuju National Park, this isn’t just a hotel—it is a sprawling health-themed amusement park designed to make families move, play, and relax. Famous for its surreal “Village Zone” of hundreds of dome-shaped houses that look like something out of a fairytale (or Dragon Ball Z), it offers a completely unique accommodation experience in Kyushu.
In this guide, we’ll explore why Aso Farm Land is a bucket-list stay for families, from the endless exercise courses of “Genki no Mori” to the friendly capybaras and relaxing hot springs.
For a broader look at what else to do in the region, including the famous volcano crater and castle, check out our The Ultimate Guide to Kumamoto with Kids: Nature, Volcanoes & History.
The Dome Hotels: Sleeping in a Fairytale Village
The main attraction for many families is the accommodation itself. The Aso Farm Village consists of over 300 dome-shaped cottages made of expanded polystyrene. These domes are not only cute and distinct; they are incredibly earthquake-resistant and comfortable, keeping cool in summer and warm in winter.
For children, walking through the winding paths of the village feels like exploring a secret fantasy world. The domes are separated into different zones, and choosing the right one can make your stay even better.
1. The Dream Zone (Recommended for Families)
If you have younger children, try to book a room in the Dream Zone. These domes are decorated with colorful characters, including Kumamoto’s beloved mascot, Kumamon. The interiors often feature fun designs that thrill toddlers and elementary-aged kids.
2. The Village Zone
This is the standard area, nestled among trees and streams. It is quiet, peaceful, and massive. Because the grounds are so large, shuttle buses run frequently to take you from your room to the reception, onsen, and restaurant areas.
3. The Royal Zone
For families wanting a bit more privacy and luxury, the Royal Zone offers domes with private gardens and upgraded interiors.
Note for Parents: The domes are rounded, meaning there are no sharp corners—a small but appreciated safety detail for those traveling with active toddlers.
Genki no Mori: A Massive Exercise Playground
While the domes are great for sleeping, the real action happens at Genki no Mori (“Forest of Vitality”). This is a massive outdoor exercise course covering 10,000 square meters. It was designed by health experts to encourage movement, balance, and thinking.
Unlike a standard playground with just a slide and swing, Genki no Mori features over 70 different obstacles. You’ll find:
- Giant Mazes: Several labyrinth courses that require problem-solving to escape.
- The King Slider: An 80-meter long slide that offers great views of the Aso mountains.
- Physical Obstacles: Tilting bridges, rope webs, and climbing walls.
Toddler Challenge Pavilion (Indoor)
If you are visiting on a rainy day or have children too small for the big outdoor course, head to the Toddler Challenge Pavilion. This indoor facility is designed specifically for infants and preschoolers (ages 0–6). It features soft play areas, ball pits, and age-appropriate climbing structures, ensuring the little ones can burn off energy safely.
If you are wondering how to fit this into a wider trip, we recommend checking our 7-Day Kyushu Family Itinerary: Fukuoka, Beppu, and Kumamoto by Train, which highlights how to balance active days like this with sightseeing.
Animal Encounters & Relaxation
After running through the obstacle courses, your kids will likely want to slow down. Aso Farm Land has a charming animal area known as the Fureai Animal Kingdom.
Unlike traditional zoos where animals are far away, this area focuses on interaction. You can get up close to interact with:
- Capybaras: The stars of the show. These gentle giants are often roaming freely or soaking in their own little hot springs.
- Flamingos: You can often walk surprisingly close to these colorful birds.
- Small Mammals: Mara, beavers, and rabbits are also residents here.
Aso Genki Onsen
Parents, this is for you. After a long day of chasing kids through mazes, you can relax in the massive onsen complex. It features large open-air baths (rotenburo) with views of the Aso mountains, as well as various “health baths” utilizing minerals and herbal medicines.
If you are interested in exploring more family-friendly hot springs across the island, take a look at our guide to Where to Stay in Fukuoka with Kids: Best Family Hotels & Onsens.
Dining: Healthy Buffets for the Whole Family
Aso Farm Land takes its “health theme” seriously, even with the food. The main dining options are buffet-style, which is perfect for families with picky eaters.
- Big Farm Restaurant: Often the go-to for hotel guests, offering a huge variety of Japanese and Western dishes.
- Oaso Restaurant: Focuses on healthy, balanced meals using locally grown vegetables from the Aso region.
- Aso Kinoko-tei: If you want to try local specialties, this restaurant serves “Aka-ushi” (Aso Red Beef) and mushroom dishes that are famous in Kumamoto.
Everything is labeled clearly, including calorie counts and nutritional information, so you can feel good about what your family is eating.
Practical Tips for Families
Getting There
Aso Farm Land is located in Minami-Aso village. It is not right next to a train station, so planning your transport is crucial.
- By Car (Recommended): The easiest way to visit is by rental car. It is about 40 minutes from Kumamoto Airport or the Kumamoto Interchange. Having a car also allows you to visit the nearby Mt. Aso crater easily. If you are unsure about driving in Japan, read our article Do You Need a Rental Car for a Family Trip to Fukuoka? (the advice applies to Kumamoto as well).
- By Train/Taxi: Take the JR Hohi Line to Akamizu Station. From there, it is a 7-minute taxi ride to the park.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and Autumn are ideal because the weather is perfect for the outdoor “Genki no Mori” course. Summer can be hot, though the Aso highlands are generally cooler than the city. If you visit in winter, the domes are cozy, but outdoor play might be chilly.
Day Trip vs. Overnight
You can visit Aso Farm Land just for the day to use the playground and zoo. However, the dome hotels are such a unique experience that we highly recommend staying at least one night to get the full experience.