🐦 Through Caldera Paddy Fields and Scenic Mountain Views: A 22km Ptarmigan Loop 🐦
Aso City in Kumamoto Prefecture, set within one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas, rests peacefully beneath the majestic peaks of the Aso-Kuju National Park. Blessed with fertile volcanic soil and crystal-clear spring water, the basin features vast emerald rice fields framed by the towering outer rim. This rich agricultural tradition has sustained local communities for centuries alongside deep-rooted spiritual beliefs tied to the volcanic mountains. This 22km GPS art course invites you to experience a storied landscape, sweeping across rural paddy fields and bustling town hubs to sketch a Ptarmigan on your digital map.
The journey immerses you in breathtaking countryside vistas, with panoramic views of the Aso Five Peaks framing expansive farmland. Tracing quiet rural paths, you will discover historic sanctuaries like Shimo Shrine, dedicated to agricultural legends, alongside the medieval history at Nihendzuka Castlesite. Winding through open green spaces like Apika, Aso City Agricultural Park and the popular Aso Cuddly Dominion, the route leads into the lively heart of town around Aso Station and Aso Roadside Station. Here, the modern energy meets soothing hot spring culture near Aso Bochu Onsen Yume Hot Spring.
Featuring open, flat rural roads surrounded by dramatic mountain slopes, this 22km route captures the grand spirit of Aso’s unique caldera environment. As the digital silhouette completes on your map, you are left with a memorable impression of this breathtaking volcanic haven.
RESTAURANTS
DETAIL (EXTERNAL LINK)
A PIONEER IN GPS ART.
1st work was authorized by Guinness World Records as “the Largest GPS Drawing”.
He is the only Japanese person to be featured in a Google documentary as an innovator. He is fascinated by the idea of drawing with GPS and has published more than 2,500 works.
