mount aso travel

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.

Not far from the Nakadake crater, Kusasenri (or Kusasenri-ga-hama) is a grass-covered plain with grazing cows 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.

Getting there and around

The Nakadake Crater can be reached in a 30-40 minute bus ride from JR Aso Station. There is one bus about every 1-2 hours. The one way trip costs 730 yen and is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass . Buses travel as far as Asosan Sancho Terminal, from where a shuttle bus gets visitors to the crater (600 yen one way). Alternatively you can walk to the crater in about 30 minutes one way. Cars can drive all the way to a parking lot just next to the crater, but must pay 800 yen for the last kilometers, which is a toll road.

Make sure to check the volcano's current state before your visit. During times of heightened volcanic activity, the crater can be off-limits and the road and walking trail to the crater closed.

How to get to and around Aso

Hours and Fees

Aso volcano museum.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Asosan crater information, asosan loop shuttle, hotels around aso.

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Mount Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan, is located in Kumamoto, Kyushu. Arguably the prefecture's biggest attraction, Mount Aso is a prime hiking and sightseeing spot that's part of the Aso Kuju National Park . Mt. Aso's peak is at a towering 1,592 meters above sea level, forming a stunning mountainside view from the Aso city.

Mt. Aso itself consists of five peaks — Mt. Naka, Mt. Kijiima, Mt. Eboshi, Mt. Neko, and Mt. Taka. It's believed that Mt. Aso was formed by four large eruptions that happened more than 200,000 years ago. The regular volcanic activity contributed to the formation of the large caldera that is also known as Nakadake crater. A caldera is larger than an ordinary crater, and the one on Mt. Aso is one of the largest in the world.

The Nakadake crater holds stunning blue water, which emits sulfuric fumes and is dangerously hot despite its icy appearance. The Aso Volcano Crater center monitors the crater's activity levels and updates daily on visitor restrictions to ensure everyone's safety. As of April 2020, access to the crater is currently closed due to increased volcanic activity. The ropeway, roads, and trails leading to the crater are closed until further notice. Mount Aso's latest eruption was in 2016. The crater can usually be accessed via ropeway, a bus from JR Aso Station, by private car, or a 30-minute walk from the bus stop.

Nearby Station

• Yamanote Line

Opening Hours

General amenities.

• Free guides/pamphlets

80-minute drive from Kumamoto via the Kumamoto Exit

2-hour drive from Oita City / Beppu

To Nakadake Crater: (check if routes are open to visitors)

40-minute bus ride from JR Aso Station, followed by a shuttle bus to the crater / 30-minute walk

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Aso Starts Here

January 7, 2024 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

It took me two trips to see Mt. Aso for what it is. On my first visit, in late 2019, a combination of bad weather and a distraction in my personal life had prevented me from capturing the essence of Kyushu’s most famous volcano, let alone the scale and majesty of the caldera that swirls around it like a conch shell. My Mount Aso itinerary was more theoretical than tangible.

When I returned in mid-2021, on the other hand, everything was different—well, internally anyway. While I was stressed and sad because of how awful everything about life was in the late-Covid era, the Aso-Kuju Geopark was at the peak of its beauty: Lush emerald vegetation shining under a clear, cobalt sky.

Whether or not you’ve been to Aso before, and no matter what you’re expecting, I have a feeling you’re going to want to read my Mount Aso itinerary. I’m excited you’re here!

How I Came to Love Aso

As I described in the preceding paragraphs, my first time at Mt. Aso was less than charmed. Not only had I arrived less than 12 hours after being dumped (by text, no less); my arrival at the base of the mountain coincided, unluckily enough, with my first (and what would end up being my only) cloudy day on that particular trip to Kyushu. For these two big reasons, and some smaller ones I won’t go into, I left Aso feeling severely underwhelmed.

The second time, everything changed—and not just because I possess the clarity of someone who’s been happily single for more than a year. I specifically timed my trip to two days with perfect weather, which was easy given that I lived in Kyoto at the time. From sweeping panoramas to the individual blades of grass that carpet the crater floor like a lawn trimmed with scissors, seeing Aso in brilliant technicolor elucidated its truth to me, even if it did so nearly two years too late.

My Favorite Things to Do Near Mt. Aso

Hike the kishima and/or eboshi trails.

As is the case if you climb Mt. Fuji , most Aso hiking begins halfway up the mountain. Arriving by car or bus to Kurasenri Observatory puts you at the confluence of the three main trails. Given how often the Nakadake Trail is totally or partially closed, I’m going to advise you to choose between the other two: Eboshidake , which offers the most straight-on view of the main crater; or my personal favorite Kishimadake , which looks down on the caldera floor and Kami-Komezuka .

Forest bathe at Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine

While my Mount Aso itinerary highlights some of the best views in Japan—I’ll mention a couple of others later—not everything in this part of Japan is pomp-and-circumstance. For example, the mysterious Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine (whose existence no one, not even locals, can really explain) snakes through a mysterious evergreen forest about 30 minutes’ drive from the top of Mt. Aso.

Make friends at Ogi Rice Terraces

Continue your counter-clockwise drive around the mountain to Ogi Rice Terraces , where Mt. Kuju rises above lush paddy scenery, which varies in color and composition depending upon the season. An added benefit of visiting here is the nearby Yamabuki Springhead , the approach to which feels like walking into a painting. I also recommend Nabegataki Waterfalls , even though it was “closed for corona” (to whatever extent nature can be “closed”) the last time I tried to visit.

Take it all in on horseback

Mt. Aso (and Kumamoto more broadly) is famous for its horses, although not always in a sense I find appealing. I’m talking, of course, about the delicacy of uma niku , which I don’t ever intent on trying, in spite of how oishi it apparently is. The good news is there are plenty of opportunities to ride horses rather than eat them, whether at aforementioned Kusasenri, or at many spots along the winding road leading up to it.

Enjoy the panorama from Daikanbo (or a helicopter)

The weather had been so bad during when I first wrote this Mt Aso travel guide that I barely remember what I saw from atop Daikanbo —it certainly wasn’t the legendary keshiki for which the viewpoint is famous. This time, I not only saw the entire caldera sprawled out under pristine skies, but also in the morning when the unkai (“Sea of Clouds”) was swirling around the basin like waves and whirlpools. Another option for some Aso-area higher love is to take a helicopter, which costs a cool ¥5,000 for five minutes.

Where to Stay in Mt. Aso

I’ll be honest: Hotels and ryokan in the vicinity of Mt. Aso leave a lot to be desired. The ones that are truly nice are far too expensive to be practical for most travelers; the cheaper ones (and also the Base Backpackers hostel) are outdated, uncomfortable and will leave you unable to relax, which is especially problematic if you end up participating in Aso’s most exhilarating activities.

Although I am, at best, agnostic about Airbnb under normal circumstances, I definitely recommend you searching the site for properties near Mt. Aso. Whether you choose an entire home, a private room or a homestay, the properties here are more enjoyable, authentic and cozy than any Aso hotel I’ve ever stayed in, to say nothing of the fact that they tend to be much better priced. This can be especially beneficial, depending upon how many days in Aso you plan to spend.

Other FAQ About Visiting Mt. Aso

Is mount aso open.

Although the Aso-Kuju Geopark is open 365 days per year, the main Nakadake Crater is often closed, given how active it is—it’s been on the brink of eruption, it seems, for years now. I recommend that you visit this link in the days leading up to your trip , as well as on the day of your planned visit, to avoid disappointment (or, more preferably, to confirm news).

Is Aso volcano active?

Aso Volcano is extremely active, having erupted more than a dozen times in the last half-century, most recently (as of this writing) in mid-2019. Even when it’s not technically erupting, plumes of gas are almost always spewing out of its main Nakadake Crater, which is both picturesque and problematic: If you can see smoke, you won’t be able to approach the crater rim.

How do I get to Mt. Aso from Kumamoto?

The good news? The JR Hohi Line, which was damaged by a severe 2016 earthquake and closed for many years as a result, had since re-opened. The not-so-good news? The Aso area lacks good local public transportation, which means that renting a car is the only way to see things in an efficient way.

The Bottom Line

Mt. Aso eventually blew my socks off, even if I didn’t see what the fuss about it was the first time I visited. More than most other destinations in Japan, a visit to the Aso-Kuju Geopark demands great weather: Without sunny skies, the lush greenery of the volcano and the caldera around it are so muted that neither their scale nor splendor clearly comes across. Certainly, I now consider it to be among my favorite places in Kyushu ; the view from atop Mt. Kishima is probably the best I’ve seen anywhere in Japan. Planning your own trip to Japan’s southernmost main island, and need more than my Mount Aso itinerary? Consider hiring me to plan your trip , and learning from my mistakes without having to make them yourself.

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Mount Aso Travel Review: A Kyushu Road Trip Adventure

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Mount Aso — At last, the day I had been eagerly anticipating arrived – my visit to Mount Aso in Kyushu! To be honest, this amazing volcano was the main reason I decided to travel to Kumamoto. Before setting off, I couldn’t help but worry about whether the trip would be possible. After all, Kyushu’s Kumamoto Prefecture has faced its fair share of natural disasters in recent years.

In April 2016, a magnitude 7 earthquake shook the entire city, causing widespread destruction. Roads and railways were closed for repairs, making it impossible to take the train to Aso. Even now, some routes remain closed. The cable car that once took visitors up to the Aso crater has also been out of service due to damage and ongoing monitoring of volcanic activity. The situation seemed uncertain, especially after smoke billowed nearly 10 kilometers into the sky during an eruption in October 2016. Could I really make it to Kyushu’s Mount Aso?

(My travel date was February 20th, 2018) Fortunately, it seemed that luck was on my side! Just before my trip, authorities reduced the security surveillance level, allowing visitors to enter the Aso area in Kyushu, but maintaining a 1 km radius restriction around the crater. Although the cable car was still out of service, I could drive up to a viewpoint to take in the stunning scenery. Sadly, on the day of my arrival, the crater was CLOSED.

⚡️ Great news! Mount Aso in Kyushu is now open for exploration in 2023. You can enjoy the breathtaking volcanic landscape by taking the ASO BOY tourist train, which is covered by the JR Kyushu Pass. However, this review focuses on a road trip, offering a more immersive experience at your own pace. Get ready to discover the captivating charm of Mount Aso as we hit the road!

Northern Kyushu Island itinerary

Embark on a journey to the northern island of Kyushu, a land of contrasts and diversity, where modern cities and ancient traditions coexist in harmony. On my 8-day trip, I had the opportunity to explore the best that this island has to offer – from the vibrant metropolis of Fukuoka to the historical and picturesque Nagasaki , the idyllic hot spring town of Yufuin , and the charming castle town of Kumamoto . I also ventured to the lesser-known gems of Takachiho and Mount Aso , immersing myself in the island’s natural splendor. Each day was a new adventure, and I urge you to plan your own trip to this incredible destination and follow my journey through my detailed reviews of each city I visited. Click to discover the hidden gems and must-see attractions of Kyushu Island in each city on the itinerary below.

How to Explore Aso and Rent a Car for a Self-Drive Tour

The quickest and most convenient way to experience Mount Aso and the surrounding area is by renting a car from Kumamoto. If you have a JR Pass or JR Kyushu Pass, I recommend taking a train to Kumamoto City, staying overnight, and renting a car for a day trip to Aso the next day. If you plan to visit Aso-Takachiho, consider renting a car for several days. Of course, your plans will depend on your preferences. I also visited Takachiho but opted for a day tour because I didn’t feel like driving. So, I rented a car for just one day to explore Aso. If you don’t have a train pass, you can rent a car and drive from Fukuoka, embracing the full Kyushu road trip experience. Just keep in mind that driving can be tiring.

I recommend booking your rental car in advance through the Tabirai website, a Japanese platform that compares rental prices from various companies. I found their prices quite reasonable. I rented a Honda Jazz for 12 hours at 5,000 yen (about 1,500 baht), which included CDW car insurance. Remember that you’ll need an international driving license to rent and drive a car in Japan.

Kyushu Railway Pass Summary

• JR Kyushu Pass (All Area) : This pass allows you to travel on JR lines for sightseeing in various cities in Kyushu such as Hakata (Fukuoka), Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Yufuin, Beppu, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. You can take the Yufuin no Mori sightseeing train to Yufuin and reserve seats in advance via the JR Kyushu website. There are 3, 5, and 7-day plans available, with starting prices at JPY 17,000 (~$130). [Purchase via Klook] [Purchase via KKday]
• JR Northern Kyushu Pass : (I’ve used this pass in this review.) This pass allows you to travel on JR lines for sightseeing in various cities in Northern Kyushu such as Hakata (Fukuoka), Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Yufuin, Beppu, and Oita. You can take the Yufuin no Mori sightseeing train to Yufuin and reserve seats in advance via the JR Kyushu website. There are 3 and 5-day plans available, with starting prices at JPY 10,000 (~$77). [Purchase via Klook] [Purchase via KKday]
• 🎫  Sanyo-San’in-Northern Kyushu Area Pass : This pass is for traveling on JR train lines to prominent cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Wakayama, Himeji, Okayama, Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Nagasaki. You can take Sanyo-Kyushu Shinkansen round trip Osaka-Kobe-Okayama-Hiroshima-Yamaguchi-Hakata(Fukuoka)-Kumamoto, Kansai-Airport Express Haruka from Kansai Airport (KIX) and Yufuin no Mori Sightseeing Train (however, online seat reservation is not possible with this pass). It’s available in a 7-day plan, starting price at JPY 23,000 (~$177).   [Purchase via Klook]   [Purchase via KKday]
• 🎫  Japan Rail Pass – All Area (JR Pass) : This pass allows you to ride JR trains across the entire country, including almost all Shinkansen bullet trains. It also allows you to ride on the Yufuin no Mori sightseeing train, but you cannot reserve seats online with this pass, you must do it at the JR station. This pass is available in a 7-day plan and the price is about JPY 44,810 (~$344).   [Purchase via Klook]   [Purchase via KKday]

Let’s Start Exploring Mount Aso, Kyushu! Milk Road

Begin your journey to Aso and Mount Aso with Google Maps, setting your route to the Milk Road first, followed by Daikanbo. The scenery along the Milk Road is simply breathtaking!

As you drive, you’ll find yourself on a road that winds along the edge of the volcano, offering panoramic views of endless grass fields. I visited at the end of February when spring was just beginning. The meadow had turned golden, and there was still some snow by the roadside. Make sure to bring a jacket, as it can get windy and chilly.

Along the Milk Road , there’s a small viewpoint where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning view of Aso town below. Trust me, it’s a sight you won’t want to miss!

Daikanbo View Point

Continue along the Milk Road until you reach the Daikanbo observatory, a large viewpoint offering a spectacular view of the volcanic caldera basin from the north side. From here, you can also see Aso town nestled below and the five peaks of the Aso Volcano Group in the distance. The viewpoint is a popular spot for visitors, and there’s a building with restaurants and snack shops in case you get hungry.

However, if you can hold out a bit longer, I recommend waiting until we visit a fantastic Gyudon (beef rice bowl) restaurant in Aso town!

The Daikanbo viewpoint is truly stunning. Take a seat, breathe in the fresh air, and soak up the expansive view. It’s incredibly beautiful, and you’ll be able to see Aso town situated within the ancient caldera below.

Gyudon at Imakin Shokudo

After enjoying the views at Daikanbo, I drove down to the caldera’s wide plains where Aso Town is located. For lunch, I took you to Aso’s top Gyudon (beef rice bowl) restaurant, Imakin Shokudo , which is also #1 on TripAdvisor. Upon arrival, I got a queue card, and it took about an hour to get into the restaurant. Despite the wait, every review said it was worth trying.

To pass the time, I explored the area and found a delightful dessert and ice cream shop called Cafe & Zakka & Kagu , situated right next to Imakin Shokudo. The cafe was bustling with fellow diners also waiting for their turn at the Gyudon restaurant. With a one-menu-item-per-person rule, I ordered a homemade ice cream set featuring rice, black sesame, and taro flavors, served with bread, as well as a refreshing smoothie. The ice cream turned out to be unexpectedly delightful!

Cafe & Zakka & Kagu offered a helpful service, keeping an eye on the queue for us and announcing when it was our turn to enter Imakin Shokudo . At last, it was time to enjoy the popular beef rice bowl in Aso! Although there wasn’t an English menu, I had saved images on my phone to help me order.

The Gyudon was truly amazing, with tender, slightly undercooked beef enveloping the rice and creating a melt-in-your-mouth sensation. I can’t recommend it enough! The price was 1,680 yen per bowl. Don’t miss this culinary gem when exploring Aso!

With a full stomach, it was time to continue exploring Aso. I drove south to Kusasenri, a vast meadow with a striking, desolate mountain backdrop. As I ascended, the incredible scenery made me feel like I was in Australia or New Zealand, not Japan. I couldn’t help but exclaim in awe as I took in the breathtaking views, saying things like “Ohhh, Ahhh, Wowww, how beautiful!” Hahaha!

At Kusasenri Square, there’s a parking lot and a path for walking. While I’m not sure about other seasons, during my February visit, the golden yellow meadows contrasted beautifully with the dark brown mountains and scattered snow. It was a truly charming and memorable experience in Kumamoto.

As you wander around Kusasenri , you’ll come across a small hill that offers great views and a distant basin you can visit. I recall spending a lot of time taking pictures, enjoying the amazing atmosphere and chilly weather, feeling absolutely satisfied with the experience.

The basin resembles a lake, which freezes during winter but begins to melt by February. Afterward, I tried to drive to the ropeway station leading to the Aso volcano crater, hoping to see if it was open for visitors. Unfortunately, it was closed. However, on my way back, I saw a familiar mountain from internet pictures, featuring a unique inverted bowl shape with a dimple on top. It was a charming farewell scene from Aso before returning to Kumamoto, wrapping up an unforgettable and impressive trip. 🤗

อ่านรีวิวเมืองนี้จบแล้ว อ่านรีวิวเมืองอื่นในญี่ปุ่นต่อกันเลย 🤗

ญี่ปุ่นเป็นประเทศไม่กี่ประเทศที่นี่รู้สึกว่า ไปกี่ครั้งก็ไม่น่าเบื่อ ไปแล้วไปอีกได้ตลอด และยังประเทศที่ตัวเองตั้งมิชชั่นว่า อยากจะเก็บให้หมดทั่วประเทศ ฮ่าา เอาเป็นว่า HASHCORNER นี่ก็มีรีวิวญี่ปุ่นให้อ่านและตามรอยเยอะพอสมควร ทั้งหมดนับแล้วเกือบ 50 รีวิวแล้ว เยอะโคตร ใครที่มีแพลนไปเมืองไหนในญี่ปุ่นที่มีชื่อเมืองตามลิสด้านล่าง สามารถคลิกลิงค์อ่านต่อได้เล้ย

ภูมิภาคคันโต (Kanto Region)

1. รีวิว โตเกียว (tokyo) กำลังเขียน 2. รีวิว โตเกียวดิสนีย์แลนด์ (tokyo disneyland) 3. รีวิว โตเกียวดิสนีย์ซี (tokyo disneysea) 4. รีวิว harry potter: warner bros. studio tour tokyo 5. รีวิว โยโกฮาม่า (yokohama) 6. รีวิว คามาคุระ (kamamura) 7. รีวิว นิกโก้ (nikko) 8. รีวิว ฮาโกเน่ (hakone).

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Kyushu’s Lush and Active Volcano

Mount Aso is Japan's biggest active volcano, located in the heart of Aso Kuju National Park in Kumamoto Prefecture on Kyushu Island. Aso-san culminates at 1,592 meters above sea level with a circumference of about 128 kilometers. It is permanently monitored due to the frequent eruptions, which have the access to Mount Aso closed to the public.

Mount Aso is actually a volcanic complex that includes about fifteen other volcanic peaks as well as Aso, a city with a population of about 100,000 inhabitants. Its caldera , a vast plateau shaped by previous eruptions, measures 25 km from north to south and 17 km from east to west.

There are 5 main domes:

• Naka-dake : 1,506m, the most active and visited;
• Taka-dake: the highest, with a 1,592m altitude and a 600m diameter crater;
• Neko-dake: 1,408m, considered the oldest one;
• Kijima-dake: 1,321m;
• Eboshi-dake: 1,337m.

Hiking and frequent volcanic eruptions

The caldera was formed between 300,000 and 80,000 years ago after four eruptions, called Aso 1, 2, 3 and 4. The whole complex has experienced more than 160 eruption events since the year 533, as confirmed by documents from that time. In 2014, several explosions, especially in November , required the raising of the alert level. Another eruption occurred on September 14th, 2015. On October 8th, 2016, volcanologists witnessed an explosive eruption on a peak that had been in a sleep status since 1980. The most recent eruption of the main crater happened on October 20, 2021.

Despite some dangers, mostly due to sulfur gas, Mount Aso remains accessible to tourists. In the 1990s, concrete bunkers were built around the Naka-dake crater to allow hikers to shelter in case of eruption. In that case, access would be forbidden to the public up to 2 kilometers around the volcano  🌋 . Before scheduling a hike there, it is wise to check for official information related to the volcano’s status .

Please note that the serial earthquakes that impacted Kumamoto in April 2016 have affected the whole site for several years and the cable-car  🚙 to the crater is definitely closed. It is advised to choose hiking trails on other peaks , such as Taka-dake, which offers a magnificent view of the surrounding landscape. Less sporty tourists will have an easier climb at the lower Kishima-dake mount.

Caldera and green grasslands

Another main attraction, the vast grass-covered Kusasenri-ga-hama plain welcomes cows and horses who come here to graze. Horseback riding is possible, but not in winter . On the opposite side is the Aso Volcano Museum and research center, with two real-time cameras  📷 filming inside the crater.

From this high plateau, we can admire one of the most emblematic landscapes of the area: Komezuka , the all-green symmetrical crater, which can be photographed from the two roads crossing the caldera.

For a comprehensive visit , we recommend stopping at one of the hot springs , such as Akamisu, Aso-Uchinomaki, Jigoku, Tarutama or Yunotani-Aso.

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Experience the Grasslands and Volcanic Grandeur of Mount Aso

Surrounding Mount Aso is one of the world's largest calderas, or volcanic craters, where grasslands have flourished for more than a millennium. Learn about nature's cycles of destruction and rebirth on an awe-inspiring journey through Aso-Kuju National Park.

Itinerary Highlights

• An unforgettable taiko drumming performance at a high elevation.
• Hiking or biking through the sweeping vistas of the Aso grasslands.
• A thrilling helicopter ride straight over volcanic Mount Aso.

Trip Overview

A breathtaking taiko performance with a beautiful backdrop.

Arrive at Kumamoto Airport in the morning and travel onward to the Mount Aso Visitor Center. The scenic environs of the center are the perfect place to get situated for the journey ahead. Learn about the science and history of the Aso Caldera and Aso-Kuju National Park before you have a laidback lunch. In the afternoon, attend an outdoor performance by DRUM TAO, a globally acclaimed drum and dance ensemble that will blow your mind and set a tone for the exciting days to come. You won't forget this riveting taiko drum performance with a view of Mount Aso in the background. After that wraps up, take a car to Aso Uchinomaki Onsen, stopping by the lookout point called Daikanbo along the way. From Daikanbo Lookout, you can get a spectacular view of the five peaks of Mount Aso that are said to resemble a sleeping Buddha. Aso Uchinomaki Onsen is a lively hot spring resort where many famous Japanese writers have stayed in the past. Wind down for the day and find a spot for dinner. Don't forget to take a dip in the onsen, with waters purported to soothe muscle pain and other chronic conditions while revitalizing the skin with natural minerals.

Exclusive hiking or biking through the grasslands

Head out from your hotel in the morning and go to the meeting point for the Aso trail walk and grassland ride . This half-day excursion will allow you to experience the park by foot or mountain bike (e-bike) and enjoy amazing views in areas that are usually off-limits to casual visitors. The guided tour also brings participants to the bokuya (grasslands) where you can get to know more about the people who live here and their relationship to the land, such as their institution of the practice of controlled burning known as noyaki. Once this experience ends in the late afternoon, return to your hotel in Aso Uchinomaki Onsen for some more rest and relaxation.

A helicopter ride to the volcano

In the morning, walk from your hotel to the Aso Grassland Conservation Center. Spend some time at this educational facility and learn about the environmental protection efforts that have been instituted in the national park. Then hop into a helicopter for a thrilling ride straight to Mount Aso , where you'll be able to see the plumes of the volcano from up on high. Viewing one of the world's largest calderas from this vantage point is simply an incredible and unparalleled experience. After descending from the sky, gather your belongings and get ready to travel back to Kumamoto Airport. The sweeping vistas of Aso-Kuju National Park will fill your mind even as you fly away on your return journey.

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Mount Aso: How to get there and what to see

Mount Aso: How to get there and what to see

July 3, 2023

Mount Aso is located in Aso City, in the Kumamoto Prefecture of Kyushu Island . A constant stream of smoke is emitted from the caldera, a reminder that the volcano is active .

The landscape is very diverse. Inside the caldera, there’s everything from grassy plains with grazing horses and cattle, to the rocky Nakadake peak .

If you’re feeling adventurous, read on to find out how to get to Mount Aso , what to see and do, and other visitor information.

How to get to Mount Aso

To get to Mount Aso, you’ll first need to make your way to Aso Station . Local trains and limited express trains (both covered by your Japan Rail Pass ) connect Aso and Kumamoto stations.

From JR Aso Station, you can take the bus to Asosan Nishi Station , the journey takes around 30 to 40 minutes. Note that this bus ticket is not included in the JR Pass.

There is a shuttle bus to Nakadake Crater , you can also walk to it in around 30 minutes.

A convenient way to get around the Aso area is by renting a car . There are car rental companies in Kumamoto City.

The Aso Boy train

The Aso Boy limited express train is one of the most popular ways to get to and from Mount Aso. You can ride it with your JR Pass .

The line features designer trains with unusual layouts, often with stylized and decorative interiors . This makes for a unique and comfortable trip through this scenic part of Japan to the volcano.

At each end of the train, you’ll find panoramic windows so you can take in the views. There are also lounge areas with sofas or benches facing the windows.

Aso Boy is known for its mascot Kuro — an adorable small black cartoon dog, who appears all over the exterior and interior of the trains.

These family-friendly trains have a unique seating arrangement, so that children always get a window seat next to their parent. There are also play areas, children’s books featuring Kuro, and a café with snacks available.

The line runs from Kumamoto to Miyaji and Beppu , stopping at Aso and various other stations in between.

Aso Boy route

The Aso Boy calls at the following stations :

• Shin-Suizenji
• Musashizuka
• Hikarinomori
• Bungo-Taketa

You can use the service to get to Mount Aso from any of these places.

How to get to Mount Aso from Kumamoto

To get to Mount Aso from Kumamoto, simply take the Aso Boy train at JR Kumamoto station .

The limited express line starts at Kumamoto and arrives at Mount Aso in around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

How to get to Mount Aso from Fukuoka

The simplest way to travel from Fukuoka to Mount Aso is via Kumamoto .

You can catch the JR Sanyo Shinkansen from Fukuoka Hakata Station to Kumamoto. This takes 30-40 minutes.

From there, catch the Aso Boy limited express train along the JR Hohi Line.

This journey is fully covered by the JR Pass , including both trains.

What to see when visiting Mount Aso

Mount Aso can be enjoyed from a distance. Views of the volcano are breathtaking from the surrounding areas. If you want to get a closer look, these are the most interesting sights inside the caldera.

Nakadake, Mount Aso’s most active volcano

Nakadake volcano is one of the active volcanic peaks in the center of the caldera. Inside the crater, there is hot spring water rich in minerals

You can usually visit the crater of Mount Nakadake , but the crater area may be closed off during bad weather, episodes of volcanic gases, or the risk of volcanic activity. Be sure to check it’s open before you head there.

Komezuka volcanic cone and walking trails

Another attraction is Komezuka , a volcanic cone around 50 meters high. It’s a cute, symmetrical cone covered in and surrounded by grassy fields. You can enjoy walking trails around Komezuka.

Aso Shrine dating back over 2000 years

Aso Shrine shouldn’t be missed when visiting Mt. Aso. The shrine is historically significant, believed to date back to the end of the Yayoi period (300 BC to 300 AD).

An earthquake in 2016 caused the Aso shrine’s most noteworthy feature, the Roman Gate, to collapse. Reconstruction works are planned.

Mount Aso Museum and Visitor Center

To find out more about the site, tourists can visit the Aso Volcano Museum and Visitor Center. The building is set on a grassy plain within the Aso caldera, around 2.5 miles from Nakadake crater.

The Mount Aso visitor center includes exhibits explaining the geology and topography of Mount Aso , plants and wildlife, and local culture.

In the same building as the visitor center is Mount Aso Museum. The museum offers a more detailed look at Mount Aso. The museum includes multimedia exhibits and interactive activities . There is also a shop and a café.

Mount Aso museum opening hours and fees

Mount Aso Museum and Visitor Center are open year-round from 9 am to 5 pm . It may be closed during bad weather, so it’s worth checking in advance.

The visitor center is free, however, there is a small fee to enter Mount Aso Museum. Fees are subject to change.

Mount Aso onsen region

The mineral-rich hot springs source several onsens in the area which are enjoyed by locals and visitors.

Some of the most popular onsens in the Aso Area include:

• Gekkoji Ryokan
• Ryokan Sanga
• Kurokawa onsen
• Tsuetate onsen
• Uchimaki onsen

You can combine exploring the caldera with a relaxing visit to an onsen . The hot springs offer visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the health benefits of the spring water.

Facts about Mount Aso

Here are some of the most interesting facts about Mount Aso:

• Mount Aso is the largest active volcano in Japan
• It is one of the largest active volcanoes in the world
• The volcano’s peak is around 5,223 ft (1,592 m) above sea level
• Mount Aso has a huge caldera with a circumference of approximately 75 miles (120 km)
• It is the volcano with one of the largest calderas in the world

Mount Aso is an impressive natural wonder in Japan. You should definitely consider adding it to your Japanese travel itinerary.

When was the last time Mount Aso erupted?

Mount Aso last erupted at 11:43 am local time on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 . Following the eruption, Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued a level 3 volcanic activity alert. There were no reports of casualties or major damage to the area.

Sporadic eruptions have occurred for decades. There have been 38 separate eruptions since 1950, all of which have occurred at the Nakadake crater.

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Things To Do in Aso: One Day Mount Aso Itinerary

Last updated on April 5th, 2024

Here are all the tips and travel guide you’ll need to know for your first visit to Mount Aso. We listed the top things to do to plan for your Aso itinerary to appreciate the magnificent Asosan and surrounding area.

Aso (阿蘇) is worth visiting if you come to Kyushu. It is also known as nature sightseeing and popular among the local and foreign travelers. The must-visit attraction, Mount Aso (阿蘇山, Asosan) is the largest open active volcano in Japan and a few crater that open for tour in the world. Aso has a group of mountains consists of five peaks; Mt Neko, Mt Taka, Mt Eboshi, Mt Kishima and lastly Mt Naka (Nakadate). The Nakadate is the center of the caldera and accessible to tourists.

However, the Nakadate crater is not always open and will be closed off after reviewing the volcano activities. It had been closed for some things due to increasing of volcano eruption. We were in dilemma whether we should visit anyway. So glad we eventually did it. The Kusasenri was so beautiful and we enjoy our walk along the plain grass.

Hope this little travel guide will help you in traveling to Aso and how to visit there.

Table of Contents

Getting There

From Beppu to Aso , express train (Kyushu Odan Tokkyu and Limited Express Aso Boy) running between Beppu, Oita, and Aso with one train per day. The train journey takes about 120 minutes at ¥3100. Local train take about the same traveling time but not as comfortable as an express train. Alternatively, buses take about 210 minutes at ¥3500.

Travel Tips : Valid for foreign visitors only. Traveling around Kyushu by train is very expensive. We recommended purchasing the Kyushu JR Pass (3-Days/5-Days) which greatly saves on the transport fee. . ( Check on price on Kyushu JR Pass at Klook )

While from Kumamoto to Aso , the bus is the only public transport due to the train system was badly damaged by the earthquake. The traveling time takes 120 minutes with ¥1500.

Aso is not easily accessed by public transport. The best way is to rent a rental car for self-driving if you wish to travel at your own pace. There are many beautiful attraction can be coupled up together for your trip in Kumamoto prefecture. Ample of parking space with small fee at attraction spot. Check your rental car in RentalCars.com with best price guarantee.

Include our Aso Travel Guide with transportation tips including schedule, fare and how to getting around.

Top Things To Do in Aso

There are many things to do in Aso to plan on travel itinerary. For sure, 1-day is not enough to explore this place. It is best to stay at least one night at Aso. There are many accommodation and local available in Aso. However, if you only have limited time, it is advisable to choose from the must-visit attraction in Aso. We recommended to visit the Nakadake Crater and walk around Kusasenri. These two attractions are located nearby and best to couple together into your Aso visit.

Top three things to do in Aso for 1-Day Aso itinerary:

• Take a closer View on Mt. Aso

Enjoy the Magnificent View on Kusasenri

• Scenic View on mountain range at Daikanbo

Take a Closer View on Mount Aso

Not doubt, Mount Aso (阿蘇山, Asosan) is the top attraction and must-visit in Aso. Located in the center of Kyushu in Kumamoto prefecture, Asosan is the largest active volcano in Japan. The peak is 1,592 m from the sea level and measuring 18 km east-west and 25 km north-south. Added, the mountain’s caldera is created by multiple gigantic eruptions during past years. It is very amazing to get so close with an active volcano to brave a glimpse of the steaming crater.

Visitors can access and view the active Nakadate crater by riding ropeway. However, due to the 2016 earthquake, the ropeway was badly damaged. So, Asosan loop shuttle bus is replaced and operated by helping visitors from Asosan Nishi-Eki station to Nakadate crater.

However, please make sure to check on the volcano’s status before your visit. The crater will be close for visit if increasing of eruption level. During this time, all the access regardless of bus, car or walking are forbidden within a certain limit.

Official Website : http://www.aso.ne.jp/~volcano/eng/

Not far from the Nakadake crater is the breathtaking Kusasenri (or Kusasenri-ga-hama) . It is a greenery grassland with grazing cows and horses. The best place to experience Japan’s nature and country life. It is also one of the best places to see the smokey volcano with the background of Mt Naka.

There is a big pond at the center and grazing horses make an idyllic scene. Horse riding is possible to enjoy the amazing landscape from early March to mid-December. Added, there is the Aso Volcano Museum to watch the visual effects and trace the history and geographic conditions of Mount Aso.

Scenic View on Mountain Range at Daikanbo

Another Aso popular attraction is Daikanbo, which literally means big observatory peak . It is the perfect spot to view on the five peaks of Mount Aso. Visitors can see its conical shape from the observation site. It is also one of the best views for caldera and stunning mountain range at Daikanbo.

Access to Daikanbo takes about 20 minutes by local bus or taxi. However, please take note that the observation deck is about 2km from the bus stop.

Around Aso Day Tour

For sure one day is not enough to visit all the beautiful nature in Aso especially for those traveling by public transport. If you wish to have more detail volcano exploration, consider taking the Aso day tour . A well arrange itinerary with English spoken guide help to explore Aso in detail. The tour even introduces some particularly beautiful private attractions. The secret shrine is one of the highlights for the Aso day tour.

Take a look if you wish to enjoy the breathtaking Aso with well arrangement.

Aso Itinerary

The magnificent Aso Geopark is always one of our must-visit attractions in Kyushu. There are not many opportunities to get so close to volcano activities. Unfortunately, Mt Aso crater is close at 2km off-limit due to volcanic activity. So we will focus and mainly spend our time roaming around in Kusasenri grassland.

After study on bus route and schedule, we actually can spend about 10 minutes at Asosan Nishi-Eki station (the entrance to Mt Aso). Although we can’t get closer to the Nakadate crater, but it is still worth to spend a little time to take a view on Mt Aso.

We arrived at Aso station in the morning. Done purchased on our one-day Aso route bus pass , we boarded the 11:45 am bus to Asosan Nishi-Eki station. Enjoy the breathtaking mountain range and maiden grass all around along the bus journey.

Volcano Activities at Asosan

The whole area is full of ash due to volcano activities. It is still amazing to see the open active volcano and feel the natural power. We spend the limited time to take some photo and had a quick visit to Asosan Nishi-Eki station. You may also get some souvenirs and snack in the station.

Next, we boarded the same bus proceed to Kusasenri. It probably the highlight of our Aso itinerary. The view was so beautiful with the whole area is covered in yellowed grassland in early December. We didn’t plan for what to do in Kusasenri but just freely roaming around. From the distance, it was also able to see smoke coming out of the active Nakadake crater.

For those who are interested, you can ride the horse to enjoy the magnificent grassland. It cost ¥1500 for 5 minutes of horse riding experience.

Added, there are also Aso Volcano Museum in Kusasenri that explains volcanoes and caldera. You may visit the museum to learn about the natural or geographical characteristics of the area. Entrance Fee ¥880 for an adult and ¥440 for kid.

It can easily spend about 1-2 hours just wandering the hilly grassland. Opposite the Kusasenri is a row of building which houses shops, museum, and restaurants. We had our lunch at Kusasenri at one of the restaurants.

All in all, we only had about 2-3 hours with such an Aso itinerary planning by public transport. If you ask me, does it worth traveling so far just to see the Asosan. For us, it is worth going. We enjoy our time and highly recommended to enjoy the beautiful scenery. But, probably self-driving is the better choice to travel at own pace.

Note : If Asosan volcano eruption is reduced and re-open for visit, the Kusasenri can be replaced by viewing on the Nakadate crater.

What To Eat

In Kusasenri, we had our lunch at one of the restaurants. There are a row of shops include few restaurant and cafe if you are looking for what to eat in Kusasenri or Aso. Food choice including Indian food, Japanese curry rice at Grassland Cafe, or typical Japanese food at Aso Buono Restaurant.

We choose the Buono Restaurant and had Taipeien for our lunch at Kusasenri. This restaurant also has a variety of food such as ramen, pork cutlet rice, champon noodles. Price is reasonable even in the tourist spot. They also served buffet but not available during our visit.

Surprisingly the food served taste so good. We enjoy our lunch with an amazing view through the big lookout window.

Where To Stay in Mount Aso

We didn’t stay in Aso due to the tight schedule. However, it worth spending one night in Aso to enjoy the beautiful view and onsen. Aso Resort Grandvrio Hotel is a great choice for those plans for self-driving. Fabulous location near Mt. Aso with views on the golf course and caldera. Guests can enjoy the outdoor bath. But it is best to book your dinner and breakfast together with your stay.

Alternatively, consider the Aso Plaza Hotel with 15 minutes from JR Aso Train Station on the free shuttle. The rooftop onsen is another great plus. Enjoy the great views of Mount Aso with a steaming volcano for your one-night stay in Aso.

Aso Travel Vlog

At the end of the Aso travel guide, take a 7-minutes video tour of how we spend 4-days in Kumamoto prefecture to Kumamoto city, Takachiho Gorge (Miyazaki), Aso, and Kurokawa Onsen. Hope this is helpful on how to plan your itinerary to Aso.

If you like our video, don’t forget to give us a like and subscribe to us on youtube. Thanks!

The 1-day Aso itinerary is part of a travel blog to Kyushu. We visited Kumamoto prefecture and had a great time here. Continue reading our travel stories here. Let us know if you need further information on your trip. Happy travel!

Aso Travel Guide: How To Get There and Visiting Attraction Around

Related Kumamoto travel blog :

• Kumamoto Food Guide: What To Eat in Kumamoto
• Suganoya Kumamoto: Must Try Food in Kumamoto
• Katsuretsutei Kumamoto: Best Tonkatsu Ever

Traveling to Kyushu? Here are more Kyushu travel stories for your trip inspiration:

• How To Plan Your Kyushu Itinerary: Ultimate Guide
• Fukuoka Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide
• Nagasaki Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Takachiho Gorge Travel Guide: 1-Day Itinerary Blog
• Miyazaki Itinerary: What to do and eat in Miyazaki
• Beppu Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
• Yufuin Travel Guide: Must Eat Food And Things To Do
• Kurokawa Onsen: A Guide To Natural Hot Spring Town
• Kagoshima itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

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Mount Aso - Japan Travel Guide - Japanspecialist

Japan's largest active volcano.

About Mount Aso In the heart of the southern island of Kyushu, far from the crowds and concrete of the city, is an incredibly beautiful national park with majestic waterfalls, gorges and mountains. The main attraction is Mount Aso, Japan's largest active volcano and one of the largest in the world. It consists of five volcanoes and has one of the world's largest craters with a circumference of about 120 km.

Getting up close to the volcanoes One of the active volcanoes, Mount Nakadake, is accessible via ropeway. From here you can look down into the crater and see its caldera lake, all turquoise and smoke. A wild experience! Note that strong gases come from the volcano and that it is often closed due to excessive gases. Nearby is Komezuka, a small, verdant and beautifully shaped volcano. It cannot be climbed, but there are pleasant footpaths in the area. Please note that getting to Mount Aso by public transport can be difficult. This is some of the most unspoilt nature in Japan, and because of this, the transport network is not particularly developed. It is worth considering renting a car, which of course we can help with.

Other attractions around Mount Aso Nearby is the small but spiritually very important city of Takachiho. The landscape here is nothing short of overwhelming - it is no wonder that, according to the legends, this area was the playground of the gods. Don't miss the Takachiho Gorge (best in calm weather). Rent a rowing boat and sail down the river along high cliffs and waterfalls of supernatural beauty. We also recommend paying a visit to the important Amano Iwato Shrine from where you can see - but not enter - the cave where the sun goddess Amaterasu reportedly used to hide.

NOTE: Mount Aso is still an active volcano, and this may mean that, from time to time, restrictions are placed on how close you can get if there is too much smoke or gas in the air.

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Mount Aso (阿蘇山 Aso-san ), in Kyushu 's Kumamoto prefecture , is an active volcano that has one of the largest calderas in the world.

Understand [ edit ]

The active volcano of Aso brings a lot of tourists to the small town of Aso.

You can find Aso Tourist Information in Aso station or at Michi No Eki Aso (road rest area; the building on the left when you get of the train station).

Check www.aso.ne.jp/~volcano/eng/ before setting out to see if the Nakadake crater is accessible to its rim, or whether noxious or poisonous fumes are rendering it inaccessible.

Get in [ edit ]

Aso is on the JR Hohi line , 1 hour and 40 minutes from Kumamoto by local train (¥1080, change of trains may be required). There is also a limited express, the Kyushu Odan Express (九州横断特急), which makes 4 daily round trips with no change of trains required (65 minutes; ¥2180).

Kumamoto connects to Hakata in Fukuoka via the Relay Tsubame and Ariake limited express trains, and to Kagoshima via the Relay Tsubame and the Kyushu Shinkansen.

From Beppu you can get there in about 2 hours by train (¥3740)

The bus connecting Kumamoto and Beppu stops at the Aso JR station, and often at Aso Nishi cable car station. From Kumamoto, it takes 2 hours (¥1760) to reach the cable car, et 2:30 (¥3350) for the JR station. From Beppu, the two morning bus services reach the cable car in 3 hr 30 min (¥2950) and the JR station in 4 hours (¥3450). Timetables: Kumamoto-Beppu , Beppu-Kumamoto , Fares .

There are helicopter tours to mount Aso from the nearby Aso Cuddly Dominion , 2164 Kurokawa, Aso (around US$160 per trip for three persons).

There are luggage lockers at Aso Station.

Get around [ edit ]

• 32.819553 131.122561 1 Takamori Line ( 高森線, takamori-sen ). A tourist-oriented railway which passes through stunning scenery on its way to Takamori, a village within the Aso caldera. Board it at the Tateno train station, which is a 40-minute ride on the main train line from Kumamoto. The route is 18km long, and is most spectacular in spring, summer, or early November (when the leaves on the trees turn to bright autumn colors). ¥1220 .  

See [ edit ]

• 32.885278 131.051944 1 Aso Volcano Museum ( 阿蘇火山博物館, Aso-kazan Hakubutsukan ) ( on the road between Aso station and Mount Aso; some buses stops there. ).  
• 32.947905 131.113695 2 Aso Shrine ( 阿蘇神社, aso jinja ). An old shrine dedicated to the god of transportation and traffic safety.  
• 32.9478 131.11597 3 Aso Saru Mawashi Gekijō ( 阿蘇猿まわし劇場 ), 793 Shimono , ☏ +81 967 351341 . This theater has man and a monkey stage shows.  
• 32.88202 131.08543 4 Aso-san ( 阿蘇山 ). The volcano is still active and sulphuric steam can be seen coming from the Mt. Nakadake crater. However, you should be aware that the summit of the crater has been extensively geared for Japanese mass tourism - paved roads can take you right up to the crater and it can get quite crowded during the peak season. However, if you want to get away from the crowds, you don't have to walk too far. The site is not limited to immediate surroundings of the crater. Do not hesitate to spend one hour or more walking on the path to explore the beautiful scenery.  
• 32.905885 131.044061 5 Komezuka ( 米塚 ). A nice small volcano cone to see on the way. It erupted 3000 years ago and now stands 80 meters high, with a perfectly symmetric shape. Climbing it is forbidden, in order to protect its cute green slopes. ( updated Feb 2016 )

The mountain spews sulphurous gases from the crater of Mt. Nakadake. Sometimes, when the winds blow from the crater towards the crowds, the cable car lines are shut down, so you might not be able to reach the summit. They will start operating again when the winds turn - sometimes you will only have to wait half an hour or so. If you want to check before starting your hike, the owner of the youth hostel is able to tell whether everything is in operation.

• If you have extra cash to spare or you want to have an aerial view of Mount Aso, you can take the helicopter ride, which is not far from the Mount Aso Museum. It costs ¥5000 for an adult, ¥4500 for a child per person for a 4-minute ride, but the view is astonishing!

Do [ edit ]

• Various hiking trails around Aso-san can provide you anything from a nice afternoon walk to a good days hiking. The landscape is full of greenery in summer, while in autumn the mountains turn orange. If you're interested, be sure to pickup a hiking map (don't expect a detailed map, it will probably be just an illustrative map) from the friendly Aso youth hostel or from the Aso Tourist Information. Besides - the routes just around the Mt. Nakadake are marked very well, you get a small map with routes and 'You are here' mark every 15-20 minutes of hiking. If you are in front of the crater, walk along it to the right (south) to join the actual trail. Allow two good hours (photos breaks included) if you want to climb the mountain (200 m up) and enjoy beautiful views on the crater and the whole area, and a bit less for the way back down. Even if you cannot/don't want to spend so much time, it worth strolling on this path (which does not start to climb seriously before the foot of the mountain) and then turn back (which will take you as much time).
• There are also several hot spring resorts around Aso. Contact Aso tourist information office for more information.

Buy [ edit ]

Just next to the train station, at Michi No Eki Aso , various local products are on sale. You can find fresh fruits and vegetables, rice, milk, handmade lunchboxes, sweets and so on. Everything here is cultivated or produced in Aso city.

Besides the usual tourist trinkets you can buy from the Aso Nishi cable car station, there's not much shopping to do around here. Your usual supermarket is a couple blocks south from the Aso station.

Eat [ edit ]

• 32.939307 131.080796 1 Kojirō-buchi ( 小次郎渕 ), 1303-2 Kurokawa ( facing the Aso JR station, turn right and follow the road round and over the railway line; turn right just before the fire station (look out for the tower), and it's on the left ), ☏ +81 967-34-0945 . Friendly, reasonably-priced restaurant. Most dishes involve cooking your own meat using a fire in the centre of the table. Generous portions. ¥1500-2000 .  

There are some restaurants and a noodle bar near the station. In Aso Heights, there is a delicious cheese cake. Japanese lunch box can be bought at Michi No Eki Aso just next to the station. The aso noodles are amazing.

Drink [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ].

• 32.92853 131.0768 1 Aso Youth Hostel ( 阿蘇ユースホステル ), 922-2 Kurokawa , ☏ +81 967 340804 . The youth hostel is quite ascetic, but is cheap and the owner is very helpful. No breakfast, but they sell stuff like instant noodles you can have in the morning. They also have a simple Aso hiking map revealing the different trails around the mountain. It's about 20 minutes walking uphill from Aso-station. They have a very small public bath open from 17:00 to 21:00. No Wi-Fi and to use Internet, you have to use the prehistoric Windows 98 computer in the hall (if it works), or you can gently ask for a network cable if you are lucky enough. Dorm ¥2000 .  
• 32.93573 131.08045 2 Aso Base Backpackers ( 阿蘇バックパッカーズホステル ) ( 500m from JR station ), ☏ +81 967-34-0408 , [email protected] . Check-out: 11:00 . It is extremely expensive. However, if you do find yourself staying here, they have spotlessly clean, perfectly organized, nice kitchen, cozy fire, you name it - they have it. Free Wi-Fi, but you have to pay ¥100 for 30 minutes on the provided computers. Dorm ¥2800, twin ¥6000, double ¥6600, single ¥5500 .  
• 32.8428 131.00245 3 Little Asia Minamiaso Guest House ( リトルアジア南阿蘇 ), 3617-7 Kain, Minamiaso , ☏ +81 967-67-2155 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00-22:00 , check-out: 10:00 . This was a really nice family-run operation close to Aso-san. It's easy to get to if you have a car, but you might miss the sign if you're not looking closely. The owners were very welcoming, as were the other guests. There is free Wi-Fi available, and they do a family-style dinner every night at 19:00. Guests who want to attend are asked to contribute a ¥280 fee to help pay for the food. There is a natural hot spring out back that you can pay ¥300 to use. There is a trail that will take you to a "secret" waterfall. Dorm ¥2500, double rooms ¥3000, single ¥4000 .  
• 32.93675 131.0732 4 Guest House Asora ( ゲストハウス阿蘇楽 ), 73-2 Kurokawa , ☏ +81 967-34-1115 , [email protected] . Dorm ¥2500, private room ¥3000/person .  

Go next [ edit ]

• 33.076913 131.139695 2 Kurokawa onsen . A small village known for its hot spring, located at the north within 1 hour by car or (infrequent) bus. ( updated Feb 2016 )
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The Complete Mount Aso Travel Bucket List

この美しい自然は皆んなのもの大切にしましょう。

Mount Aso is the largest active volcano in Kyushu, Japan, and is among the largest in the world. It’s located in  The recent volcanic eruption stopped flights and travel tours, and scientists even suspected that the eruption might affect global weather. In fact, an Eruption Alert of Mount Aso has been hoisted since about a year ago, and some tourist attractions such as the services of Mt. Aso Ropeway has been suspended due to safety reasons. The time I arrived at Mt Aso, we couldn’t take the ropeway to the mountain top. However, we enjoyed a gorgeous sunny day in the Aso area with only a few degree Celsius. The entire rural area was so peaceful and quiet. I love it.

We had a few route changes at the planning stage of our mini-North Kyushu road trip. We thought about Beppu, Saga; then Oita was in the picture… interestingly, one place never changes: Mount Aso had always remained as our “must-see” highlight in our itinerary. Another fantastic find would be the hot-spring resort in Minami (Southern) Aso that has INDIVIDUAL, OUTDOOR, IN-ROOM, PRIVATE hot spring at an incredible price that’s hard to believe!!

Stay-tuned 🙂 —- My route of the day in Aso:

…>>> (Day 0) Car rental (Kumamoto JR station) > we left Kumamoto and drove around Miyazaki that day > we arrived hot spring resort in Minami Aso in the evening before dinner > (Day 1) Aso road trip begins! > Mount Aso (Mount Aso Station) > Kusasenrigahama > Daikanbo > Aso-boy train (Aso JR Station) > Fukuoka

Without revisiting all the ups-and-downs of my time, just to share a few highlights!

Website : http://www.kyusanko.co.jp/aso/lang_en/

Ticketing: The ropeway service is currently suspended

How did I get there: Drive, but Trans-Kyushu regular sightseeing bus is also available

Horse-riding

There is horseback riding everywhere in the world, yet somehow it is a signature activity in Aso. Let just say this place is beautiful (and much more economical) for those who plan to enjoy a fun time with horses (I like animals, and the ranch is so damn close to the hot spring resort we stayed!). Unfortunately, the ranch was fully booked the day I visited for a private event. Next time!

Aso Bluegrass

Website : http://aso-bluegrass.com/?page_id=38

Ticketing: Horseback Riding – Beginner Class ¥5250 (45 mins) / ¥7350 (60 mins)

How did I get there: Drive, please~ 🙂

The Takenokura

Let’s talk a little bit about the geography of Aso. Aso is located in the Kumamoto Prefecture, on the island of Kyushu; and it is the largest active volcano in Japan. I learned that the feature of the area is called caldera . Caldera is a hotpot-like volcanic feature with a cone-shaped volcano in the center, and its surrounding land was collapsed due to volcanic eruption many, many years ago. Villages are now built around the volcano these days. The largest village is Aso – and it is located on the north side of the volcano.

Another amazing find would be the hot-spring resort in Minami (Southern) Aso that has INDIVIDUAL, OUTDOOR, IN-ROOM, PRIVATE hot spring at an amazing price that’s hard to believe!!

That’s how we found our resort. For a much lower price, the resort was an amazing experience. The resort is divided into the old wing and new wing. Every guest has their individual room and a small outdoor hot spring area. Each zone is thoughtfully designed and has a view of the beautiful mountain range, with cows wandering outside on the lawn.

Regarding the food, it was not top-notched as I have tasted better in the past, in another hot spring, however, it is common in Kyushu to have the cuisine of horses. We visited Aso in March and to me, it was the perfect temperature to soak in the hot spring outdoor and rejuvenate our exhausted bodies right before our big adventure for tomorrow.

Website : http://www.takenokura.co.jp/

How did I get there: I drove, but it’s possible to get there by train ~

Daikanbo, surprisingly, does not usually appear on the Aso travel bucket list. But it is now officially on my must-see recommendation because it is the highest viewpoint from the North to look down on the entire caldera.  Daikanbo was not widely promoted in foreign travel website may due to its less fanciful commercial development but the more natural outdoorsy vibe, the peak must be well-known among the Japanese locals. The signs that lead to the lookout were not very clear, and the roads upon the peak were not shown correctly in GPS – we had to drive around a few times until we finally enter the right lane.

We planned to take the 4:47 pm train to Kumamoto and therefore, we also planned to make the most of our time driving around the Aso area. Otherwise, it would have been less “stressful” for us to arrive the Aso station 10 minutes to catch the train but would have been less “fun” to reach Kumamoto with the Aso-boy “Kuro” scenic train.

Japan is a small and developed country that railways could get you anywhere. The railway is inseparable from the Japanese daily lives, and there are a lot of fans who like collecting models and toys related to Japanese railway. For me, I always fascinated with the rail system route design, and I could stare at a roadmap for hours, wondering about the city layout, connections, and everything that comes with it. Aso Boy is a limited express train running two times a day between Kumamoto and Aso. Besides, the mascot Kuri is everywhere on the train and decorated with different themes and functions.

Aso Boy ( あそぼーい!)

Website : https://www.jrkyushu.co.jp/english/train/asoboy.jsp

Ticketing: Reserve train ticket beforehand, and it is included in Kyushu JR pass

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Hey! I am Kenny. Since I was a kid, I was bitten by a travel bug quite seriously that I would choose a globe and atlas book for Christmas over video games. Now, the Knycx Journeying website was launched as a platform to share my passion - covering anything that interests me from history, culture, humanity, architecture, art, food, music to outdoor adventure.

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Peak Japan: Thrilling beauty of exploring Mount Aso, largest active volcano in the country

Kyushu island a perfect place for those who love great outdoors.

Mount Aso is the perfect place for anyone keen to explore Japan's great outdoors.. Unsplash / Tom Vining

Dominated by the brooding presence of Mount Aso, the heart of Kyushu – Japan’s most southerly main island – has been forged from fire and water. Those same elements continue to shape it to this day.

The largest active volcano in Japan , Mount Aso may not have the perfectly symmetrical cone that has made Mount Fuji a symbol of the nation, but the unique environments that surround the peak have turned it into the perfect place for anyone keen to explore the country's great outdoors.

Only 35 kilometres east of the recently refurbished Aso Kumamoto Airport, the volcano is the centrepiece of the Aso-Kuju National Park and is made up of five distinct peaks that have emerged in the middle of a caldera that is 25km across, making it one of the largest in the world. At 1,592 metres, Mount Taka is the highest of the five peaks, but Mount Naka is the most accessible and, at present, the most active. And that makes it a good place to start any visit.

From the completely flat base of the caldera, the road begins to rise through a series of curves flanked by a sea of undulating grasslands that are grazed by the local “aka ushi”, or red cows, named after their colouring. Wisps of cloud come and go as we climb higher until the greenery finally peters out and we are driving across a lunarscape.

The crater of Mount Taka is a deep gash in the earth that emits clouds of superheated steam. In the very bottom, the pools of cloudy water are green-yellow. Sulphur hangs heavy in the air.

The most northerly of the peak’s craters last erupted as recently as October 2021, releasing a towering column of ash thousands of metres into the sky. The threat is taken seriously, with sturdily-built concrete shelters almost on the rim and the road up to the crater closed at the first hint of subterranean rumblings.

Hiking trails criss-cross the surrounding area, which were in centuries past dotted with temples and shrines dedicated to the gods of these violent mountains. Eruptions, earthquakes and lava flows eventually convinced the monks to move their places of worship further away, although the occasional stone monument can still be spotted amid the rolling landscape.

Mount Aso’s grasslands are critical to the local ecosystem, providing a home for countless species of flora and fauna, and helping to retain water, while the grass itself is an important resource. Every spring, local volunteers carry out a closely-controlled burn of the grass to allow the new growth to come through the fertile soil in a matter of weeks.

Dusty and with the volcano’s unmissable scent clinging, we take the road back down the mountain, traverse the paddy fields and switchback up the steep northern side of the caldera until we reach Hoshino Resorts Kai Aso. The only luxury-grade hotel in the region, the resort is made up of a dozen individual cottages set amid a lush hillside forest.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 界【公式】｜星野リゾートの温泉旅館 (@hoshinoresorts.kai)

Each traditionally-designed cottage is spacious and bright, but the highlight has to be the private onsen on the deck, overlooking the forest. Climb in with a cold drink and any muscle kinks soon melt away.

When you are eventually able to tear yourself away from the bath, dinner is served in the main lodge and is omakase, meaning that guests do not select from a menu but are served a meal of about a dozen courses selected by the chef based on the best seasonal ingredients. It is likely to include a sashimi course, mountain vegetables, miso soup, a noodle dish and rice prepared in a clay pot with abalone.

Some superb aka ushi Wagyu steak will also be prepared tableside, along with horsemeat, a delicacy in this part of Kyushu.

After a restful night – and, quite likely, another spell in the onsen – start the day with a spot of yoga overlooking Mount Aso before a traditional breakfast of grilled fish, vegetables, white rice, a soft-boiled egg and tofu.

Another day of exploring the national park starts on horseback from the Green Valley Riding Club, with my steed for the morning. His name is Apollo and he's a bona fide movie star after appearing in the 2019 movie Kingdom . While he had to gallop and leap during the film, I’m pleased to find he’s docile as he wades through the high grass, stopping for occasional nibbles and providing a different perspective of the rolling grasslands.

Apollo duly delivers me to a sun awning in a field alongside a river where local event organisers Aso Onsen Kanko Ryokan Kyodo Kumiai have laid on a lavish barbecue. The private chef deftly transforms a hefty slice of aka ushi into cubes that melt in the mouth.

Although I could happily while away the afternoon by this river, our guides have plans to work off our lunch and we are equipped with electric-assisted mountain bikes. Our route takes us through the grasslands once more, until we emerge on the northern ridge of the caldera, with Mount Aso in profile before us.

We follow the rim of the huge bowl, on road and dirt track, pausing every so often to take in the view. Then the fun really begins as we start the descent on tracks and long-disused roads. There is no need to pedal as coasting alone generates a good speed – although it has to be managed at the frequent hairpin turns.

It is fast and invigorating and we emerge amid the paddy fields of the village of Teno, where people who have always lived in the shadow of this stunning mountain greet us with cheery waves.

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The Mighty Mount Aso: How to Hike to Japan’s Largest Active Volcano

The mighty Mount Aso (阿蘇山) is the largest active volcano in Japan . As is the case with many of the volcanoes located on Kyushu Island, which is often referred to as the land of fire due to the high number of volcanoes it is home to, Mount Aso tends to erupt quite often. 

The latest explosive eruption of Mount Aso occurred in October 2021, only one month after my first hiking trip to the area, when the eruption alert level (regularly updated by the authorities) was at its lowest. This meant that I could get close to the crater, which is impressively large, with a circumference of around 120km. While I was lucky in terms of the timing, the entry zones along the hiking trail and the viewing platforms regularly change depending on the activity level at the caldera. As a result, it is highly recommended that you check the latest alert level before planning your trip. As is often the case in Japan, authorities do their best to find a balance between allowing humans to enjoy this unique landscape and ensuring everyone’s safety.

This is the summary of my day hiking in Mount Aso, exploring its numerous peaks and trails offering a variety of landscape scenery. I visited the region in September when the green hills perfectly contrasted with the caldera’s brown and wild landscape. However, the region is worth a visit every season, including in winter when snow-covered peaks guard the fuming caldera.

Where is Mount Aso?

Sensuikyo trail: hike to nakadake and takedake on the same day, how to access aso town, how to access the trailheads for mount aso hike, where to stay in aso.

Mount Aso is located in Kumamoto Prefecture of Kyushu Island. Long served as a prime hiking destination, the hiking area is easily accessible from the nearby Aso-Kumamoto Airport.

While it is commonly referred to as Mount Aso, there is not a single mountain or peak identified as Mount Aso, but instead covers five peaks referred to as “five peaks of Mount Aso,” namely Mt. Takadake, Mt. Nakadake, Mt. Nekodake, Mt. Kishimadake, and Mt. Eboshidake.

The impressive range of mountains that make up Mount Aso is located in the southern part of Aso-Kuju National Park, which is large enough to expand its borders into two prefectures, Kumamoto and Oita.

What Are the Most Popular Hiking Trails in Mount Aso?

There are a number of trailheads leading to Mount Aso, but only one of the trailheads is easily accessible with public transportation.

The most popular trail starts at Asosancho Parking Lot (阿蘇山頂駐車場), which is accessible by direct bus from Aso town or with your own vehicle (unless restrictions are in place). But the easy accessibility comes with caveats. The bus schedule, with only four hours between the first and last bus, does not allow enough time to cover multiple peaks in one day and is designed with quick day visitors in mind. If you do not have your own mode of transportation and want to enjoy a long day hike exploring multiple peaks in the area, starting the hike at Sensuikyo Car Park (仙酔峡駐車場) is a better option, with an easy combination of a short train ride followed by a relatively inexpensive and short taxi ride.

Starting the hike at Sensuikyo has some other additional advantages. While the main trailhead at the Asosancho Parking Lot ensures a quicker view of the impressive caldera, the initial encounter with the Aso Mountain range can feel a bit underwhelming for independent travelers or hikers. The tour buses and individual cars parked in the parking lot and the viewing platform make it feel more like a landmark viewing trip to check off your must-see lists rather than the beginning of an adventurous hike.

Alternatively, starting the hike at Sensuikyo and arriving at the main Asosancho trailhead at the end allow the hikers to immerse themselves in the wild volcanic scenery before rejoining the crowds at Kusasenri , which is the first bus stop when you approach the mountain from Aso town. It is a beautiful plateau where the relatively short hike to Eboshidake (30-40min) starts but the vast scenery, the horseback riding opportunities through the picture perfect greenery, and the volcano museum makes the place worthy of a visit on its own. The worldly amenities at Kusasenri (such as cold beer and pizza) also make a happy addition to the day’s end of hiking.

Sensuikyo trailhead is no longer served by a bus from Aso town. A combination of a short train and taxi ride (or an appx. 1.5-hours long walk from the train station) is required to reach the trailhead. A fellow hiker that I met on the previous day at Aso train station and I decided to team up for the hike and pre-arranged a taxi to pick us up from Miyaji Station (6 min train ride from Aso Station) for the 10 min drive to the trailhead (appx. 2,000 yen). There is a tourism office inside the Aso Station, and they are more than happy to assist the visitors with these arrangements.

The first part of the hike requires a steep climb, the kind that makes you question what made you skip your morning coffee session to hit the mountains. The initial hour of the hike follows the route of the Sensuikyo Ropeway, which is no longer in use, with the apocalyptic view of the long-abandoned ropeway station. But give it an hour, and the scenery radically changes and substantially “warms up” when you reach a minor peak overlooking the large caldera fuming in all its glory and offering uninterrupted views. In the absence of other hikers, this close and intimate encounter with the caldera was so unexpected that I felt we had already reached the high point and the highlight of our hike within the first hour. Luckily, the varying landscape of Mount Aso had a lot more in store for us.

Once you reach this “unofficial” viewpoint, the trail radically changes and becomes more fun, requiring some minor scrambling. The slippery route climbs up to Takadake, the highest peak in the region. While most hikers often directly head for Nakadake, the second highest peak in Mount Aso mountain range, Takadake offers some of the best panoramic views of the entire mountain range.

After a long break at Takadake, our next stop was Nakadake (1.506-m), easily the most popular lunch venue in the Aso Mountain Range. After the initial one-hour push from the trailhead, the trail became relatively easy, allowing one to enjoy the scenery comfortably. Due to its central location and easy accessibility, Mount Aso is a popular hike for visitors passing through Kumamoto’s highlights and residents alike. As the day proceeded, we ran into numerous families heading to Kumamoto’s favorite lunch spot with picnics in their hands — Nakadake!

Despite the volcanic activity, the peaks surrounding the caldera are surprisingly green. As one moves further along the trail, the volcanic terrain gives way to almost Ireland-like greenery and sharp cliffs resembling the Irish coast (an analogy approved by my hiking buddy from Ireland). After a leisurely hike of five hours, we soon reached the last segment of the trek that involved a flat walking platform on an otherworldly terrain — Sunasenri. The plantless area is entirely covered by volcanic sand, making me feel once again in awe of the different landscapes Mount Aso hike allows visitors to experience in a single day.

The Mobal SIM Card is the only SIM card with a Japanese phone number — perfect if you need to stay in touch on short visits or for long-term visitors living, working, or studying in Japan. Mobal pocket wifi is also great if you’re traveling with family or a group!

Access to Aso

Thanks to the efficient transportation network of Japan and particularly of Kyushu, both Aso town and the main trailhead for the Mount Aso hike can be accessed with a combination of train and bus travel.

If you are not already in Kyushu and traveling from other islands of Japan, the quickest way to get to Mount Aso is to fly to Kumamoto Airport, which is well served by both Japan’s two main airlines, JAL and ANA, and the low-cost airlines. The airport is directly connected to Aso town by the Kumamoto airport limousine . However, consider yourself lucky if you are on time to catch one of the relatively rare direct buses. Alternatively, there is a free shuttle van that commutes between Aso-Kumamoto Airport and Ozu Station, from where you can catch the local train to Aso train station (50 minutes, 570 yen).

Access to the Asosancho trailhead is easy, thanks to the direct bus between Aso Station and the trailhead. But as noted above, there are only four hours between the first and last bus, which makes it challenging to rely on a bus for a full day hike in the area.

The alternative option is to start the hike at Sensuikyo trailhead and finish at Asosancho. You can take the early train to Miyaji Station from Mount Aso (6-mn, 210 yen) and then cover the distance to the trailhead with a pre-arranged taxi that costs around 2,000 yen.

Most trips to the area often start for me with a stay in Aso town, which is merely one hour away from Kumamoto Airport. The modestly sized town makes a perfect base to explore the Aso mountain range .

The town itself is also a pleasant place to experience rural Japan. It is home to an excellent hostel, an atmospheric onsen with a rotenburo (outdoor hot spring), and traditional and modern eateries.

Aso Base Backpackers Hostel is my go-to choice whenever I visit the area. It offers both dorm style and single rooms with a large common area on the first floor. There is a convenience store merely steps away from the hostel. There’s also a highly-reviewed and reasonably priced ramen shop, and the train station and the excellent Aso Bochu Onsen are also within walking distance.

Mount Aso is one of the most rewarding hiking regions in Japan. The unique terrain, the easy accessibility, and the thrill of approaching an active volcano is a rare combination that often warrants multiple visits to the region to explore its numerous trails.

Burcu Basar

I am Burcu. Originally from Istanbul, Turkey and a resident of Tokyo, Japan since 2019. I am currently doing my PhD in Japan in an area which miraculously combines my profession - law, with my passion - national parks. I can often be found in national parks all over Japan where I tend to take too many photos. The two things that I love the most about Japan are its nature and intriguingly dark literature.

https://bizarrejourneys.com

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Explore Kumamoto

sightseeing information, travel advice & highly rated tours

Mount aso & kikuchi gorge tour, mount aso & kikuchi gorge tour, enjoy the great outdoors on this tour for nature lovers, mt aso & kikuchi gorge tour.

The Mt Aso and Kikuchi Gorge Tour is for any lover of the outdoors . Get out in the fresh air and enjoy two very different landscapes in just one day.

The natural forest and pure waters of Kikuchi Gorge and the vast grasslands and active volcanic scenery of Mt Aso

Mt Aso & Kikuchi Gorge Tour information

• 1 to 8 people
• Tour duration 8.5 hours
• Language - English
• Price from 13,000 Yen per person
• Discount for children
• Activity level - Moderate

• Experience the healthy and relaxing Japanese custom of  ‘Shinrinyoku’ (forest bathing)  on a gentle hike through the lush green valley of  Kikuchi Gorge
• Daikanbo Viewpoint  – a gorgeous panoramic viewpoint on the edge of the Aso caldera, one of the world’s largest volcanic craters with views of Mount Aso; one of Japan’s most active volcanos
• Free time for lunch and a little shopping at Monja Machi in Aso town or to take a look at the historic  Aso Shrine
• See Komezuka – Mount Aso’s youngest and definitely cutest volcano.
• Plenty of photo stops for scenic views of Mount Aso and it’s beautiful grasslands
•  Free time at the  Kusasenri plateau  on top of Mount Aso; take a hike, visit the Volcano museum, grab an ice cream or just take in the views
• Visit the  Nakadake crater  and see inside Japan’s second most active volcano!

Mt Aso & Kikuchi Gorge Tour Sample Itinerary:

Timings are approximate and the schedule and itinerary order may change according to the weather and time constraints.

*It is possible to customise the tour schedule if you request a private tour or are the only participants, there may be extra charges for this.  Contact us  to find out more.

08:51 Meet up with your guide in front of  Higo Ozu Station  (you can take the 08:12 train from Kumamoto City to Higo Ozu station)

09:00 Depart.   We take a 40 minute drive to Kikuchi Gorge

09:45 Kikuchi Gorge Walk (80 minutes)

Here you can enjoy the Japanese art of  ‘forest bathing’ or ‘Shinrin Yoku’  – no getting wet just a leisurely and health boosting walk at your own pace along the riverside through the fragrant forest and around the gorge, passing many waterfalls on the way. Hiking boots are not necessary but sensible footwear is recommended.

11:30 Daikanbo viewpoint –  Aso’s top viewpoint, take in the fantastic views of one of the world’s biggest caldera and see Mount Aso and its active volcano in the distance  (30 minutes)

12:20 to 13:45 Lunch  – we head down into the caldera to Ichinomiya in Aso town, here you have free time for lunch and to explore the Monja Machi shopping street or visit *Aso Shrine

13:45   to Mt Aso –  scenic drive up the mountain road to the top of Mount Aso, stopping for the views of the grasslands and Komezuka volcano on the way

14:30 We arrive at the  Nakadake Crater  –  Mount Aso’s active volcano , when the active volcano is at  Level 1  and conditions are safe we drive all the way up to the crater area where you will be able to look into the  active volcano crater  and walk around the crater area and the  Sunasenri plateau  – a surreal lunar landscape made of volcanic ash and rocks deposited by the volcano. If the crater area is closed we will have more time to enjoy  Kusasenri.

15:40  Kusasenri  – On top of Mount Aso there is  a vast plateau called Kusasenri –  this is the remains of a kilometer wide volcanic crater active 27,000 years ago. Nowadays it’s a  beautiful grassland surrounded by volcanic peaks offering impressive views  of the active volcano. Here you have  free time  to explore; take a walk around the different viewing platforms, visit the Mount Aso visitor center or Aso Volcano Museum. Visit a cafe, try an Aso gelato or do a little souvenir shopping. From spring to late autumn horse riding is also possible. 

16:40 We will finish our day by heading down the northern route past Komezua then winding through the grasslands and out of the caldera via the dramatic Tateno Valley

17:30  Arrive back at  Higo Ozu Station                       

Meeting Point: The tour begins and ends from  Higo Ozu Station , a 35 to 40 minute train ride from Kumamoto City. 

Tour duration: 09:00 to 17:30 (8.5 hours)

No. of guests: Minimum 1 person, maximum 8.

Activity Level: Moderate, the tour does involve quite a lot of walking but the pace is gentle and not up any steep hills at both Kikuchi Gorge and Daikanbo. On Mount Aso you are free to choose whether to go for a proper hike or just relax and take a stroll

Tour Inclusions:

English guide fee, dedicated transport, parking fees, entrance to Kikuchi Gorge

Tour Exclusions:

Lunch is not included in the tour price. But please notify us of any special dietary preferences when booking so we can advise you where to eat.

Weather: Depending on the weather forecast the itinerary may take place the opposite way round to ensure we can get the best views possible.  The Mount Aso area can become very foggy at times, in this case we may change the schedule to avoid the mountainous areas. If the forecast is for heavy rain or snow all day we will either offer you the chance to cancel or to change to a different tour itinerary.

Visiting the volcano: The Nakadake volcano is always active even when it is at Level 1 (its lowest level) this means that it usually releases volcanic gases. The crater area is monitored very closely and if the wind is in the wrong direction and gas concentrations are too high the crater area will be temporarily closed. If you have a heart condition or asthma please tell us when making a booking so we can make sure of your safety.

If it is not possible to visit the active crater we will either visit an extra place or have more time at other locations.

Drop off: The drop off is at Higo Ozu station around 17:30. Trains back to Kumamoto City run approximately every 20 minutes, you will usually be in time for either the 17:27 or 17:44 departure. A drop off in the Aso area may also be possible with advance booking. Please  contact us  with your hotel details to find out

Mount Aso and Kikuchi Gorge Tour                                                

1 person –          26,000 Yen                                         

2 to 3 people –  15,000 Yen per person                     

4 to 6 people –  13,000 Yen per person

Private & customised tours are available

Family discounts available. 

(Please  contact us  with your children’s ages to find out more)

All tours are paid for in cash on the day, no deposit is required.    

About Kikuchi Gorge

Background  The Aso caldera is famed for its abundant spring waters, giving birth to 6 different rivers, one of them is the Kikuchi river which flows out across the fertile plains of northern Kumamoto. Kikuchi Gorge is near the source of the river, where the water is at its purest and cascades over pyroclastic flows through a lush, green native forest. It’s beautiful in every season and sublime in the spring and autumn. Kikuchi Gorge is a popular spot for keen photographers, botanists and bird watchers, in the summer many families visit to enjoy playing in the cooling waters.

  About Aso

First thing to know is the Aso area is big,  the circumference of the caldera is over 100 km . Sights are scattered around four areas; the northern caldera rim,  the northern caldera basin, Minami Aso (the southern caldera basin)  and   the central volcanic peaks including  Nakadake – Mount Aso’s active volcano.

The  Aso region   is definitely one of the  ‘must see’ sights  if you are visiting Japan’s southern island of Kyushu. Mount Aso is the  largest inhabited volcanic caldera in the world  and Japan’s largest active volcanic region. (When a volcanic crater is more than 2 km wide it is called a caldera, the Aso caldera is 25 km wide.) In the center of the caldera a chain of  volcanic mountains runs east to west. In the center of these mountains is the  Nakadake Volcano , currently Mount Aso’s only active volcano. It is  Japan’s second most active volcano  and a  very rare one  as when conditions are safe you can go  right up to the edge of the crater.   The volcano has been worshipped as a powerful shinto deity for thousands of years. Inside the crater you may be able to see a  beautiful steaming turquoise lake . 

Aso is also  Japan’s largest grassland area  making a unique and very beautiful landscape which changes every season. Japan is generally a land of forested mountains so the mountain grasslands of Aso offer views rarely found in the rest of the country. The lush  susuki  grass provides grazing for horses and the local Akaushi beef cattle.  The grasslands are burnt every February and by late spring the new growth is a lush, vibrant green. By summer the grass has grown tall, silver seed heads form in the autumn and then turn golden over the winter. The grasslands also reveal the rollling contours of ancient pyroclastic flows deposited by volcanic activity over hundreds of thousands of years. 

If you are interested in learning more about the Aso area take a look at the  Aso section in Places to vis

Aso & Kikuchi Gorge tour - How to book

If the date is blank it can be booked for any tour of your choice. Just fill in the  contact form  with your request.

If there is already an Aso & Kikuchi Gorge tour running for the date you want, check the number of places available and then contact us to make a booking.

If the date you want is unavailable, it may be possible to put you in touch with a freelance English speaking guide, contact us with your details to find out more.

Tour Availability Calendar

Contact Form

Why take a tour, if you want to experience fresh air & ‘forest bathing’, getting out in nature, enjoying some gentle hiking and want to find out more about the stunning volcanic landscape and history of mount aso and its connection to the pristine kikuchi river and gorge you will love this tour, other tours that include mt aso in the itinerary.

Around Aso Tour - Mt Aso & more

A fantastic day trip that takes you to the top of Japan’s largest volcano and to the most scenic sights in the Aso caldera.

Kurokawa Onsen & Mt Aso Tour

Visit Aso's famous Daikanbo view and then on to Kurokawa Onsen; Kyushu's famous hot spring village, then Mt Aso to visit the active volcano.

Takachiho & Mt Aso Tour

Takachiho and Mount Aso Tour The Takachiho and Mount Aso tour is a day trip that combines two of Kyushu's top destinations. The unforgettable Takachiho Gorge and the breathtaking Aso caldera.

Other tours that include Kikuchi Gorge in the itinerary

Kikuchi Gorge & Kurokawa Onsen Tour

The Kikuchi Gorge and Kurokawa Onsen Tour is an ideal day trip to enjoy two of the best things about Kyushu; its hot springs and beautiful nature.

Aiming for Responsible & Sustainable Tourism

We will invest and promote the local communities we visit and the nature we cherish

We will offset the carbon emissions from each tour with  Gold Standard carbon credits 

We serve our travel industry partners in the most efficient way by providing superb quality service, competitive rates and a constantly expanding range of services.