About the Shop

Hello there!
This is Ayu-mama, your SaruKuma writer.Today I’d like to introduce a wonderful spot located in Kusakabe, Takamori-machi, Aso District—
【Oku-Aso Bussankan】.This shop sits along the scenic route connecting Kumamoto and Miyazaki Prefectures.
Since the surrounding area is mostly mountains with hardly any other shops around,
it’s an incredibly handy stop for meals, restroom breaks, and souvenir shopping—and I find myself dropping in often!

Inside, you’ll find shelves lined with souvenirs and local specialty products.

They even sell children’s toys.

Outside, fresh vegetables were beautifully displayed!

And if you walk around to the back of the shop…

You’ll discover an open square with playground equipment!

Of course, my son got to play here too!

Recommended Menu

Our top pick is the manju (sweet bean buns) sold inside the shop!

Several flavors are available, and every single one is just 150 yen!

If you’d like to enjoy one right away, just ask the staff and they’ll warm it up in the microwave for you!

My pick was the ‘Yomogi (Mugwort) Manju’

Inside is smooth koshian (sweet red bean paste), which pairs perfectly with the fragrant mugwort flavor!
The dough is wonderfully fluffy, too!

And my son chose the ‘Imo (Sweet Potato) Manju’

A delicious double punch of mellow sweet potato filling and koshian!
Really satisfying and filling—what a brilliant combo!

Be sure to stop by Oku-Aso Bussankan on your drive through the Oku-Aso region. Mouthwatering manju are waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

*Information is current as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please check before visiting.