Men no Ishi Trekking

Trek to a notable spot where a fallen boulder has created the stone outline of a cat

Men no Ishi is a boulder that used to be suspended in mid-air between two cliffs. Although the Kumamoto Earthquakes jostled the rock loose and deprived us of this sight, now visitors flock to see the resulting cavern opening that looks like a cat. This trekking trail takes you to a scenic viewpoint including this unmistakable silhouette of an upright-sitting cat. The course itself is pretty challenging, so you will be sure to feel a sense of accomplishment in making it there!

Hire a guide for even more fun

We recommend hiring a guide to help you trek the steep trail along the southern outer ring of Aso. Trekkers can choose between the round-trip to and from the cat-shaped cavern (1.5 km, 2 to 3 hours) and a loop course that ventures farther out from the cavern to other viewing spots (3km, 4 to 5 hours). Guides can point out and explain various landmarks along the way, such as giant trees and unusually-shaped rocks (please reserve a guide at least three days in advance).
If you wish to try the guide-free (round-trip) course, please bring suitable trekking gear and the supplies you will need, and consult with Activity Center Minamiaso in the Asobo no Sato Kugino Roadside Station. The station also rents out trekking shoes and other gear.

Guided Men no Ishi Trekking Tour

Price

Round-trip course: ¥4,000 per person/Loop course: ¥6,000 per person (with accompanying guide)
Address Gathering Spot: Activity Center Minamiaso in the Asobo no Sato Kugino Roadside Station, 2807 Hisaishi, Minamiaso-mura, Aso-gun　View on Google Maps
Phone Minamiaso Information Center: 0967-67-2222
Length Round-trip course: 2 to 3 hours, Loop course: 4 to 5 hours
Closed 2nd Weds of each month, days with poor weather (with additional irregular closures, please confirm ahead of time)
Getting Here 10-minute drive from Chikurakutei, parking available
Items to bring Hiking or exercise shoes, hat, gloves, water, snacks
Official Homepage https://minamiaso.info/spot/trekking_mennoishi/

- You are responsible for your own safety while trekking; proceed with sufficient caution.
- Those with weak legs or backs, or who are otherwise not in good physical condition should consider not attempting the trek.

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