To combine our trip with visits to Aso Kadori Zoo and Mount Aso, and to avoid a long drive early in the morning, we decided to stay overnight in Aso. It's a 2-minute drive from the zoo and a 20-minute drive from the volcano. We were fortunate enough to participate in the zoo's bear-cuddling activity.
The hotel's parking lot was full, so we parked in the second parking area, about a 5-minute walk away. It's recommended to drop off your luggage at the hotel before parking, as the cobblestone streets and slight slopes make it difficult to push luggage around.
The hotel has a distinctly Japanese feel, with a charming courtyard and fireplace outside. Note that the rooms do not have bathrooms; the bathroom mentioned in the booking information refers to the toilet. The same situation occurred in Yufuin. Therefore, showering is combined with bathing in the onsen (hot spring), and you need to book your private onsen time in advance with the front desk. It's free. Walking around is a little inconvenient, but there's not much to do in the evening, so it's perfect for those who enjoy soaking in the onsen.
The hotel includes one night's stay with two meals. The service was excellent, and the young part-time staff were very attentive and tried their best to communicate with guests in English. Dinner was incredibly plentiful and delicious. Breakfast was also a feast. I tried horse meat sashimi for the first time here, and it was quite good. Aso Hostel offers excellent value for money; highly recommended!
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