Visiting Aso Nakadake, an active volcano, is a unique experience. However, winter is the most challenging season to get a direct view of the crater due to weather and volcanic activity. To help you make the most of your trip, here are some useful tips for enjoying Aso with less disappointment.
1. Check Crater Viewing Accessibility
Before you go, always check if the crater viewing areas are open.
The eruption warning level must be at Level 1, the lowest level, for access. Additionally, crater accessibility depends on volcanic gas levels and weather conditions.
阿蘇火山火口規制情報
Aso Nakadake Crater restriction information
Here’s a guide to the different zones:
- Red Blinking Lights: If you see blinking red lights, access is restricted due to high volcanic gas concentration. 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 updated during operating hours (from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM for winter from December 1st to March 19th). They monitor the volcanic gas concentration and will only allow access to the crater if the gas level is low enough. Always follow their guidance to ensure your safety.
2. Winter Weather Conditions
The weather in winter can make it difficult to access the crater, so it’s important to consider local conditions:
- Volcanic Gas and Wind: The crater viewing spot is located south of the active crater, so it is particularly affected by volcanic gas during north winds. On windy days, the crater area is often covered with gas, causing the viewing areas to be closed.
- Wind and Weather Patterns: If possible, plan your visit on a day with a south wind, such as before a rainy day, as this reduces the chance of volcanic gas blocking the area.
- Road Closures During Snow:
While English sources on this page suggest that snow tires or chains might allow access, the roads are actually closed to everyone when this warning is in effect.
Even if you cannot access the crater or see inside it, the views of the active volcano from places like Kusasenri are stunning, especially if the volcano is covered in snow.
3. Alternative Experiences: Aso Volcano Museum
If the crater is inaccessible, you can still enjoy your visit by going to the Aso Volcano Museum, where you can watch live camera image of the Nakadake crater. This allows you to safely observe the volcano’s activity without getting close.
While winter is a challenging time to visit Aso Nakadake Crater due to weather and volcanic activity, being prepared and staying informed will help you have a rewarding experience. Even if you can’t access the crater itself, you can still enjoy the incredible scenery around the area. Always follow the safety guidelines and enjoy your winter trip to Aso!
Kana
