Explore an Active Volcano in Kumamoto

Eat, stay, and play in Mount Aso, where ancient shrines and smoldering mountains await within one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas

Mount Aso is an active volcano that cradles a vast basin-like caldera, 25 kilometers across at its widest point. It was formed by eruptions hundreds of thousands of years ago. Today, Mount Aso is a designated geopark within the borders of Aso Kuju National Park. Visitors can enjoy activities like solo cycling, horse-riding, guided hiking across volcanic peaks. 

Mount Nakadake, is the most active part of the site today. Its smoldering crater is 600 meters across and 130 meters deep. When the fumes become hazardous it is closed to visitors, so be sure to check before you visit.

Despite this volcanic activity, people have called Mount Aso home for thousands of years. When you need a break from outdoor activity, head into town to visit ancient Aso Shrine and try some local sake and specialties cultivated in the rich volcanic soil. By night, stargaze from inside the caldera for a one-of-a-kind view of the universe.

Kumamoto Prefectural Tourism Federation