This video presents a captivating journey aboard the Minamiaso Railway (南阿蘇鉄道), focusing on the scenic rides over the Daiichi Shirakawa Bridge (第1白川橋梁) and the Tateno Bridge (立野橋梁) in Kumamoto Prefecture. Shot from the train’s front window, the footage offers viewers an immersive perspective of one of Japan’s most beautiful regional railway routes. The Minamiaso Railway is renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery, particularly as it traverses the lush valleys and rivers of the southern Aso area.

Travelers watching this video can observe the crossing of two landmark railway bridges. The Daiichi Shirakawa Bridge spans the picturesque Shirakawa River, offering breathtaking views of both the river below and the surrounding green landscapes. The subsequent Tateno Bridge is notable for its engineering and its role in connecting the region’s rural communities. Both bridges are celebrated by railway fans for their historical significance and for the panoramic vistas they provide.

The Minamiaso Railway is a single-track line that provides access to the southern areas of Mount Aso (阿蘇山). Much of this line was rebuilt and reopened after being damaged by the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes. Today, the railway remains a local lifeline and a draw for visitors seeking to experience authentic countryside scenery, superb views of the caldera, and traditional Japanese hospitality in nearby rural towns and hot spring resorts. The footage is ideal for railway enthusiasts, virtual travelers, and anyone interested in Japan’s unique regional infrastructure.