About Men-no-Ishi Lookout (Tori-no-Kozuka Park)

Hello, travelers!
This is Ayu-mama, writing for “SaruKuma.”

Today I’m taking you to Kawakage, Minamiaso Village, Aso District, to a hidden gem called
【Men-no-Ishi Lookout (Tori-no-Kozuka Park)】.

This park was developed as a viewing spot for the legendary “Men-no-Ishi” — once famous across Japan as the “stone that never falls.”

Wedged between two giant rocks for centuries, the stone never tumbled — and from that, locals came to believe
“never falling” = good luck for passing exams. It became one of Kumamoto’s most popular power spots.

Sadly, the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake brought Men-no-Ishi crashing down.

But here’s the magical twist — after the stone fell, what appeared in its place was a maneki-neko (lucky beckoning cat) shape in the rocks!

That mysterious lucky cat figure has captured visitors’ hearts ever since, keeping this spot a beloved tourist destination even after the original stone was lost.

Coming from the Kumamoto City direction, drive through the Tawarayama Tunnel and you’ll spot the signs along the road.

Follow them up the mountain.

The mountain road can feel a little remote, and you might wonder if you’re going the right way — but don’t worry! Helpful signposts are placed along the route.

Then, the lookout appears!

There’s also a parking lot.

Covered benches make for a comfortable rest.

Just past the trees you’ll spot a small hill.

That’s where the lookout is.

A traditional torii gate welcomes visitors.

And before you stretches the breathtaking panorama of Aso!

The winter scenery of Aso is especially stunning!

Why You’ll Love Men-no-Ishi Lookout (Tori-no-Kozuka Park)

Look — there’s a sign right here!

I’ll follow the direction of the arrow…

There it is!!

There’s a clear acrylic panel that explains exactly where to look,

plus a monument showing what Men-no-Ishi looked like before it fell — really helpful for visualizing the original sight!

Legend has it that Men-no-Ishi was actually one of a pair of “twin stones” — and you can still see its surviving twin from the lookout!

If you’d like to see the lucky cat up close, you can pay a mountain entry fee and guide fee to arrange a tour — a local guide will accompany you for an even closer look.

Visitor Information for Men-no-Ishi Lookout (Tori-no-Kozuka Park)

Frequently Asked Questions

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