Mount Aso

Mount Aso (���h�R, Asosan) is an active volcano in the center of Kyushu which most recently erupted in 2021 and 2016. Aso's ancient caldera ranks among the world's largest, with a diameter of up to 25 kilometers and a circumference of over 100 kilometers. In the center of the caldera stand the mountain's active volcanic peaks, including Mount Nakadake, whose spectacular crater is accessible to tourists.

Note, however, that the crater area is often partially and sometimes completely closed off to visitors due to poisonous volcanic gases, bad weather or the risk of volcanic activity. So, make sure to check the volcano's current state before traveling there. Even when the area around the summit is open, gases can be intense, and people with respiratory problems should refrain from approaching the crater.

Besides the easily accessible crater viewing area, there is also a network of hiking trails that leads to Mount Aso's various peaks. Perhaps the most rewarding of them leads from a parking lot near the crater to the Nakadake summit of Mount Aso, which towers about 350 meters above the crater and allows for spectacular views over the volcanic landscape.

The ascent takes about 90 minutes and includes a very steep section. From the Nakadake peak it is possible to hike down a further 20 minutes to a viewpoint closer to the crater or up to the Takadake summit, the highest peak of Mount Aso. Many sections of the trail are covered by loose volcanic stones. Proper preparation and footwear are required. The trail gets partially or fully closed when the volcanic alert level is raised.

Not far from the Nakadake crater, Kusasenri (or Kusasenri-ga-hama) is a grass-covered plain, which offers some easier walking opportunities and a few horses. Horse riding is possible from early March to mid December. On the opposite side of the road stands the Aso Volcano Museum with explanations about the volcano.

Komezuka is a small, beautifully shaped volcanic cone on the northern slopes of Nakadake. There are pleasant walking trails in the vicinity (but not to the top) of Komezuka, however, easy access by public transportation is not provided.