Map
An active volcano housing one of the world's largest calderas. The sight of actively steaming craters is a rare spectacle found in very few places on Earth. The volcanic landscape around the caldera is also regarded as a powerful spiritual site.
Nature Info
- Type
- Volcano
- Elevation
- Nakadake Crater, 1506m
- Access
- About 30-40 minutes by bus from Aso Station on the JR Hohi Main Line. About 50 minutes by car from Kumamoto IC.
History & Origins
The enormous caldera was formed by a massive eruption hundreds of thousands of years ago. Today, an extraordinary 50,000 people live within the caldera—one of the very few places in the world where this is possible. The mountain itself has been venerated as a deity since ancient times.
Highlights
The Nakadake Crater (with its striking emerald-green volcanic lake), the sweeping Kusasenri-ga-Hama grassland, the perfectly formed Komezuka parasitic cone, and Aso Jinja shrine are all unmissable.
Visitor Guide
Crater access is subject to volcanic alert levels—always check the Mt. Aso live camera feed before your visit. Horseback riding at Kusasenri is a popular activity.
Best Season
Spring through summer for the lush green Kusasenri grassland; autumn (November) for fall foliage.
Annual Events
- March
Noyaki (Aso Grassland Burning)
A traditional burning held every spring to protect the grassland landscape of Aso. Local residents work together to set fire to the grassland, an important event for passing on Aso's unique ecosystem and landscape to the next generation.
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