Handa Plateau, Tableland in Kokonoe, Japan.
Handa Plateau is a highland in Kokonoe rising between 800 and 1,200 meters, offering wide views across the surrounding landscape. The flat terrain supports farming and allows sight lines that extend far in every direction.
The Yamanami Highway opened in 1964 and made the plateau accessible by road from nearby cities. This connection brought more visitors and changed how the region was used.
Seasonal crops cover the fields here, changing appearance throughout the year as farmers work the fertile highland soil. The pattern of fields and growing plants shapes how the landscape looks to visitors.
You can drive to the plateau in roughly 45 minutes from Yufuin, 60 minutes from Beppu, or 50 minutes from Aso. The mountain roads have curves and elevation changes, so allow extra time if you are not familiar with driving at altitude.
On clear days you may spot deer and mountain birds that live at this elevation, adding unexpected moments to your visit. The plateau edge offers sudden drops into valleys far below, creating dramatic sight lines.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
