The slopes of Mt Aso welcome autumn earlier than in other parts of Kyushu. Around the Shirakawa Suigen, one of Mt Aso's famed water sources, maple and gingko trees turn brilliant colors over the crystal waters. Locals and visitors alike often come to fill their water bottles from the many taps that are connected to the pool. This is a quiet stop, but a worthwhile one, on a tour of the Mt Aso area.
- 1 min read
Shirakawa Springs in Autumn
Fall in the Mt Aso region
By Mandy Bartok
Community writer
A torii gate marks the entrance to the Shirakawa water source
A small grove of maples stands over the main pool
The leaves turn around the latter half of November
The site is considered sacred, hence the torii gate and the small shrine next to the water source
Shirakawa Springs is rarely crowded, even on the weekends
Maple leaves litter the ground near the main pool
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1Exploring Tokyo’s Food Culture
Tokyo - Sponsored -
2Izu Kogen: Japan’s Most Dog-Friendly Destination
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
3Ozu Castle Town: A Sustainable Destination in Japan
Ehime - Sponsored -
4Ultimate Fukuoka Food Guide: Hakata Ramen, Yatai Culture & Beyond
Fukuoka - Sponsored -
5Explore Ishigaki From Town to Shore on a Two-Hotel Escape
Okinawa - Sponsored -
6Shopping in Ginza: 10 Unexpected Finds at Matsuya Ginza
Tokyo - Sponsored -
7Kamenoi Hotel Aso: A Grand Nature Resort in Aso
Kumamoto - Sponsored -
8An All-Inclusive Osaka Escape With KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT
Osaka - Sponsored -
9Nature, Art, and Culture Along an Ancient Route
Culture - Sponsored -
10Exploring Japan Through the Seasons: Three First-Time Classic Tours
Culture
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2Guide to Suica Cards in Japan
Transportation -
3Akishinodera Temple
Nara -
4Tax-free Shopping in Japan: 2026 Changes
Planning -
5The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
6Punch the Monkey: Japan's Viral Baby Macaque
Chiba -
7May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
9Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2026 Guide)
Culture -
10Japanese Urban Legends
Culture