Using the Kyushu Tour Bus - Beppu, Yufuin, Takachiho & Kurokawa Bus (Round trip from Beppu, Yufuin & Kurokawa) is a convenient way to see a beautiful part of Kyushu while getting transported to Kurokawa Onsen or Yufuin at the end of the day.
The bus picked us up from Hotel Shiragiku, where we were staying, and drove through dreamy mountains draped in morning mist and snow-lined branches found up in higher altitudes.

 
After picking up more tour participants from Yufuin and making a rest stop, we finally arrived at Takachiho around 11:30. The bus navigated carefully through steep, winding roads, and let us off near a bridge with gorgeous views of jagged rocks and mini-waterfalls. The air was crisp and fresh, filled with what the Japanese would call "minus ions".
The guide led us through a pleasant walk through the gorge, explaining things here and there, and none of which I heard because I was too busy taking photos. Rather than describe how tranquil and refreshing this gem of a place in Kyushu is, I'll let the photos do the talking.

Many people choose to hire a little boat and row their way down the gorge which, although not part of this particular tour, I highly recommend if you get the chance.

 
Amanoiwato Shrine
After some free time for lunch and wandering about, we made our way to Amanoiwato Shrine, a shrine built across the cave where the sun goddess Amaterasu is said to have hidden out of rage due to her brother's cruel pranks.
 
We were gi...