Chasing maple leaves in Kyushu with Trip.com—the beauty of Takachiho Gorge made me forget the long journey.

I followed Trip.com's recommendation and chose this Kyushu maple-viewing day tour. The route from Miyazaki to Takachiho Gorge and then to Mount Aso in Kumamoto was well-planned. Although the journey was a bit long, the scenery was definitely worth the price of admission. 🍁 The maple leaves at Takachiho Gorge paired with the emerald green stream make every photo look like a postcard. The optional boat ride is a huge plus—gliding through the gorge felt incredibly healing. The magnificent landscape of Mount Aso is also stunning, and the vast grasslands of Kusasenri are truly refreshing. 🌋 I have to give a special shout-out to our tour guide, Lily. She was enthusiastic, attentive, and provided super detailed explanations. She also gave us lots of practical travel tips, such as the best photo spots and local snack recommendations. It was such a thoughtful and stress-free experience. 👍 Here are a few tips for those planning to go: The drive between attractions is long, so I recommend bringing some snacks and water. Remember to book the Takachiho Gorge boat ride in advance. The volcanic area is windy, so bringing a windbreaker will make you more comfortable. Overall, it was a fantastic experience and well worth the trip! 🍂