Before journeying to Aso`s Nakadake active crater, it is best to check if the crater viewing areas are open by visiting the link below:
Aso Nakadake Crater restriction information
The eruption warning level must be at Level 1, the lowest level, for access to the crater viewing area.
Additionally, crater accessibility depends on volcanic gas levels and weather conditions.
Red Blinking Lights: If you see blinking red lights, access is currently restricted due to high volcanic gas emissions. You can only visit areas without red blinking lights.
Zone B-1: This is the best spot to view the bottom of the active crater. You can also walk along the path to see other craters of Aso Nakadake.
Zone B-2: This area offers a view of the bottom of the active crater.
Zone C: This is a parking lot area.
Zone D: An observation deck, but without a view of the crater’s bottom.
Zone E: This area is only accessible under special conditions. You can only access it by a special bus from Aso Sanjo Terminal. When Zone E is open, the toll road to the crater, as well as Zones B-1, B-2, C, and D, are closed.
The accessibility information is constantly updated during operation hours.