About
Tadewara Wetlands boardwalk with views of the Kuju mountain range - Wikimedia Commons
Tadewara Marsh represents one of Kyushu's most accessible and pristine wetland ecosystems, situated directly alongside the Yamanami Highway in the heart of Aso-Kuju National Park. This 38-hectare intermediate moor sits at 1,000 meters elevation in the western shadow of the Kuju mountain range, offering an immersive experience through a rare high-altitude mountainous wetland. 🔗
The site achieved international recognition when it was designated a Ramsar Convention wetland on November 8, 2005, alongside neighboring Bogatsuru, making it Oita Prefecture's first such protected site. 🔗 This designation highlights its critical ecological importance as habitat for hundreds of plant species and nationally red-listed birds including the Golden Eagle. 🔗
Cultural & Historical Significance
The wetland's unique ecosystem is maintained through a centuries-old cultural practice called noyaki - controlled burning of the grasslands conducted annually in spring by the local community. This traditional land management prevents the marsh from transitioning into forest, maintains the characteristic grassland vegetation, and supports the lifecycle of native plants that have adapted to this cycle over generations. 🔗
Formed thousands of years ago when a debris avalanche from Sensuizan volcano dammed the Shirouzu River valley, the resulting lake gradually evolved into the marsh ecosystem visitors experience today. 🔗 The volcanic landscape remains ever-present, with dramatic peaks including Mt. Mimata's three summits and the actively steaming vents of Mt. Io forming a striking southern backdrop to the golden grasslands. 🔗
Visiting Information
Access: Perfect route integration - the Chojabaru Visitor Center parking lot sits directly on the Yamanami Highway (Prefectural Route 11), requiring no detour. 🔗
Hours:
- May - October: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- November - April: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Closed: December 29 - January 3 🔗
Route Context: Approximately 40 minutes drive from Yufuin via Yamanami Highway, positioned at the northern base of the Kuju volcanic group. 🔗
Parking: 450-462 vehicles, free of charge. 🔗
Seasonal Considerations: November 2, 2025 timing is exceptional - golden pampas grass at peak, autumn colors on surrounding mountains, clear weather with excellent mountain visibility. Morning visits recommended for best lighting and sea of clouds phenomenon. 🔗
The Experience
Boardwalk Trail System
The marsh features a sophisticated network of cedar boardwalks specifically designed to provide intimate access to the wetland ecosystem while protecting its fragile flora. Three trail options accommodate different time constraints and interests: 🔗
Route A: Stunning Views Course
- Distance: 800 meters | Duration: 20 minutes
- Wheelchair accessible with panoramic 360-degree Kuju mountain views
Route B: Seasonal Plants and Flowers Course
- Distance: 1,500 meters | Duration: 40 minutes
- Closer access to wetland flora, sphagnum moss areas, autumn gentians
Route C: Grasslands and Forests Course
- Distance: 2,500 meters | Duration: 60 minutes
- Japanese oak and beech groves, diverse ecosystem comparison
All trails begin and end at the Chojabaru Visitor Center, with clear Japanese and English signage. 🔗
Landscape Character
The dominant visual element is the vast expanse of Japanese silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis or susuki) that transforms through the seasons. In early November, these grasses achieve their most photogenic state - a shimmering golden brown sea stretching across the marsh basin, often described as a "golden carpet" under the clear autumn sky. 🔗
The boardwalk creates powerful leading lines drawing the eye toward the dramatic volcanic peaks of the Kuju range, particularly the three summits of Mt. Mimata (1,678m) and the sulfurous vents of Mt. Io. 🔗
Chojabaru Visitor Center
The modern visitor center serves as both gateway to the trails and comprehensive introduction to the Aso-Kuju National Park ecosystem: 🔗
- Interactive displays on wetland ecology and biodiversity
- High-definition immersive video presentation of Aso-Kuju National Park
- Exhibit commentary available in English, Chinese, and Korean 🔗
- Clean restrooms, restaurant, gift shop
- Free Sunday guided tours in Japanese 🔗
Practical Visiting Tips
Driving Considerations: Ideal on-route stop requiring no detour - one of the most convenient scenic stops on the Yamanami Highway with extensive free parking directly accessible from the highway. 🔗
Route Integration: 45-60 minute visit allows comfortable exploration without significantly impacting drive schedule. Perfect mid-morning break after driving from Kumamoto/Aso area, providing facilities (restrooms, food, stretching) during scenic route. 🔗
Cultural Etiquette:
- Stay on designated boardwalks at all times - wetland vegetation is fragile and legally protected as a Ramsar site
- No collecting of plants, flowers, or natural materials
- Keep voices moderate to preserve natural soundscape 🔗
Budget Considerations: Free admission and parking make this an excellent value stop. Bring water and snacks if budget-conscious, though visitor center restaurant is reasonably priced.
Weather Preparation for November: Essential layered clothing (temperature varies with wind and sun exposure), light windbreaker or jacket for exposed marsh sections, hat and sunglasses (bright sun on golden grasses can be intense). 🔗
Best Photo Spots:
- Boardwalk leading lines toward Kuju mountain peaks
- Marsh overview from elevated sections showing scale of golden grass expanse
- Mt. Mimata backdrop with three distinctive peaks
- Macro botanical shots of late autumn flowers and frost patterns 🔗
Location: View on Google Maps
Source: attractions/kumamoto-to-beppu-scenic-route/tadewara-marsh-boardwalk-trails.md