Chasing a Black Puppy! A Fun Family Railway Ride on Kyushu's "Aso Boy!"

Among Kyushu's many unique sightseeing trains, the Aso Boy! (あそぼーい!) is undoubtedly the most lively and childlike. It's more than just a means of transportation from Kumamoto city to the majestic Mount Aso; it's a mobile family playground. This time, with great anticipation, I departed from Kumamoto Station and boarded this train, featuring the adorable black dog Kuro-chan, embarking on a railway journey filled with surprises and soothing scenery.

Meeting on the Platform: The Ubiquitous Kuro-chan

The excitement of the journey began the moment I stepped onto the platform at Kumamoto Station. As the streamlined Aso Boy! slowly approached, dozens of Kuro-chan characters in various expressions and poses appeared against a pure white background, instantly igniting the enthusiasm of everyone present, adults and children alike. From running, waving, soaking in hot springs, to taking a leisurely nap, this mascot, created by designer Eiji Mitooka, foreshadows a joyful journey with its adorable charm.

Adventure on Board: Each Carriage is a New World

The charm of "Aso Boy!" lies in its meticulous attention to detail. The train consists of four carriages, each with its own unique theme and design.

Excellent Views from the Front and Rear Carriages

I specifically reserved a Panoramic Seat in the first carriage. With its ultra-wide 270-degree view, it's undoubtedly the train's "VIP seat." As the train moves forward, the railway lines, the rural scenery, and the gradually approaching Aso Mountains unfold like an IMAX film, offering an unparalleled immersive experience. The fourth carriage at the rear of the train also features panoramic seats, allowing passengers returning home to enjoy the same breathtaking scenery.

"Kuro's White Seats" for Family Fun

The heart of the entire journey is undoubtedly the dedicated family space in the third car. It's a paradise for children! Not only are there "Kuro's White Seats," designed specifically for families and convertible into sofa beds, but there's also a small library filled with books and picture books. The most eye-catching feature is the wooden ball pool, hailed as "the world's cutest." Watching children tumble and play in the pool, filled with the natural scent of wood, with innocent smiles on their faces, is enough to soothe any travel fatigue.

A Flowing Landscape: The Magnificent Road to Mount Aso

After leaving Kumamoto City, the scenery outside the window gradually shifts from the urban jungle to the open plains. The true essence of the journey begins at Tateno Station.

The Spectacular Zigzag Railway

To climb the steep slopes of Mount Aso, the train operates the famous "Switcherbak." The train will first roll forward onto a seemingly endless track, then the driver will switch to the cab at the other end and reverse the train onto another, higher track. This unique railway experience has passengers glued to their windows with excitement, witnessing the train's wondrous ascent through the valley.

A Magnificent Welcome of the Five Peaks of Aso

Once the train successfully crosses the outer rings, the majestic Aso Caldera Basin opens up. Neko-dake, Taka-dake, Naka-dake, Kitishima-dake, and Eboshi-dake—the famous "Five Peaks of Aso"—roll in unison, their form resembling a giant reclining Buddha, resting peacefully on the vast grasslands. At this moment, the train announcement lovingly introduces the scenery outside the windows. "Aso Boy!" seems to be leading us into this mythical land.

Onboard Food Indulgence and Souvenirs

Beyond visual and recreational delights, "Aso Boy!" also caters to passengers' taste buds. In the third car, the "Kuro Café" offers pudding and ice cream made with local Aso ingredients, as well as "Kids' Pudding" designed specifically for children. I ordered a rich and mellow pudding, which paired with the grassland scenery outside the window, creating a relaxing afternoon tea. In addition, a variety of original "Kuro"-themed goods, from stationery and dolls to keychains, are sure to make you want to take these adorable memories home.

The approximately one and a half hour journey flew by amidst laughter and breathtaking scenery. When the train arrived at its final destination, Aso Station, many children gazed longingly at the carriages. This journey not only brought us from Kumamoto to Aso, but also left in everyone's heart a warm memory of childlike innocence, exploration, and Kyushu's magnificent nature. "Aso Boy!" is undoubtedly a magical train, where everyone, whether they have children or not, can find pure joy.

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