NAKADAKE CRATER
Nakadake is one of the most active volcanoes in Japan. Inside its crater lies a beautiful fuming blue lake and it is possible for you to see it from above.
Because of the toxic gases released from the crater, access to the area can be restricted. Please follow this link to check the current situation.
You can access the Nakadake crater by driving up to the top (there is a fee for the final part of the road) or you can use a cable-car from the rope-way station. A bus is available from Aso train station to the rope-way station.
KUSASENRI
On the way to the Nakadake crater, there is a place called Kusasenri. It is a very popular spot with an amazing view and beautiful grassland. If access to the crater is closed, this is the best place to enjoy the view of the fuming crater.
In addition to the Aso volcano museum and the various restaurants, it is also possible to enjoy walking or even horse riding. Kusasenri is a good starting point for trekking on Mount Aso.
You can access Kusasenri by car within 25 minutes or take a bus from Aso station.
SUNASENRI
Sunasenri is situated just next to the Nakadake crater. Unlike Kusasenri, there is no grassland here and the place can look like a desert. It is a popular path for everyone who wants to hike on Mount Aso.
KOMEZUKA
The perfectly shaped Komezuka looks like a bowl of rice turned upside down. In order to protect the flora, it is not possible to climb Komezuka.
There is no public transportation to Komezuka. But if you stop at Kusasenri and climb Kishimadake you’ll have a beautiful view of Komezuka (seen in the picture above).
DAIKANBŌ
If you’re asking for the most popular observation point in Aso, there is a good chance that almost everyone will introduce you to Daikanbō. Situated on the outer rim, the view from here is breath-taking. From Daikanbō, Mount Aso looks like a Buddha lying on his back.
In addition to the amazing view, you will find there are facilities where you are able to purchase many kinds of souvenirs and refreshments. It is also possible to have a nice walk around while enjoying the view.
You can access Daikanbō by car (about 25 minutes from Aso station) or take a bus at Aso station. Please note, there are only six buses a day on weekdays and four on weekends.
OGIDAKE
At Ogidake (or Mount Ogi) you will be able to enjoy a 360 degree view of Mount Aso, Kuju and Sobo at the same time on a clear day. You can also make a stop at the little shrine situated at the top.
Ogidake is situated about 40 minutes by car from Aso station in the Namino area just before the border with Oita prefecture. Unfortunately, there is no public transportation available to Ogidake.
KOGA NO TAKI
A very popular waterfall in Aso, especially in the middle of the winter.
Around February the waterfall itself is frozen giving visitors a unique scene. We also recommend going there while it’s illuminated (only on specific evenings).
Koga no Taki is also accessible any time of the year and provides a nice walk.
30 minutes by car from Aso station. From the parking area you will have to walk for about 15 minutes to finally reach the waterfall.
No public transportation is available.
