Introducing Yo Mure at the New Aso Ohashi Observatory

Hello, travelers!
This is Binako, a writer for Sarukuma — and someone whose appetite control center seems permanently broken (I keep eating even when I’m full!).

Today I want to introduce you to a wonderful spot located in Kawayo, Minamiaso Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture:
“Yo Mure at the New Aso Ohashi Observatory.”

This charming gelato shop opened together with the brand-new New Aso Ohashi Bridge on March 7. Whether the air is warm or chilly, a cold sweet treat is always tempting when you visit Aso. Today I’d love to share a special item you can only enjoy at Yo Mure!

Parking lots are available right in front of the observatory and across the street. Traffic can get busy here, so please drive carefully!

The observatory was packed with visitors. Some people were enjoying packed lunches on the benches, while others were busy snapping photos of the breathtaking scenery.
There are also vending machines on-site if you need a drink.

There’s a small open space featuring a board with messages of recovery and hope from many people who supported Aso after the 2016 earthquakes. It’s a moving glimpse into the heart of the local community.

From the observatory, you can take in sweeping views of Aso’s iconic landscape. On a clear day, the scenery is absolutely refreshing — the kind of view that makes you breathe a little deeper.

You’ll also get a great view of the brand-new New Aso Ohashi Bridge itself — a beautiful new road built carrying the hopes and feelings of so many.

You can also walk down the stairs for a closer look around.

And here’s the star of the show — Yo Mure’s gelato!
The weather was perfect, and plenty of visitors were lining up for a scoop.

Here’s the menu:
Single scoop ¥350, Double scoop ¥450, Minamiaso Black Tea ¥400, and Minamiaso Black Tea double ¥500.

Spoiler alert: that Minamiaso Black Tea gelato is exclusive to Yo Mure — you literally can’t get it anywhere else!

Recommended Menu at Yo Mure

Naturally, I went straight for the “Minamiaso Black Tea (Elegante)”!
They also have a delicious Aso Milk flavor (¥350).

The gelato is served in a cute cup decorated with a cow illustration — irresistibly photogenic against the Aso landscape behind you!

I took a seat on a bench and dug in.
The generous orange and caramel sauce on top is wonderfully refreshing yet rich at the same time.
The citrus aroma lingers beautifully through the nose with every bite — totally addictive.

Made with locally produced wakōcha (Japanese black tea) from Miyazaki Tea Factory in Minamiaso, the gelato is studded with real tea leaves. The marriage of black tea and milk is just perfect — gentle, fragrant, and beautifully balanced.

Enjoying delicious gelato while soaking up the natural beauty of Aso? Honestly, it’s a luxurious moment you won’t forget.

Next time you cross the New Aso Ohashi Bridge, be sure to stop by and try this exclusive gelato! ♪

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Frequently Asked Questions

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