Happy New Year!
I hope you and your loved ones are surrounded by joy and happiness in 2025.
While winter is usually considered the off-season for Aso, we’ve been seeing more visitors during this time, especially since the end of the pandemic. I’d like to share a few tips for enjoying Mount Aso in the winter months.
With the winter solstice on December 21st, the days are getting longer. If you’re planning to rent a car and explore Aso, even if you head up to the mountain area later in the day, you may still catch a beautiful sunset.
The gate to the crater viewing spot closes at 4:30 p.m. during the winter season (until March 19th), and all buildings shut by 5:00 p.m. However, the Kusasenri parking lot remains open, giving you a chance to stay a bit longer and enjoy a stunning sunset from this area.
The changing colors of the smoke rising from the Aso Nakadake crater—from white to orange, pink, and gray—offer a truly spectacular natural show.
Sunset time in January is around 5:00 to 5:30 p.m., and it can get quite cold at the mountain’s altitude, so be sure to dress warmly. Also, don’t forget to equip your rental car with snow tires for a safer journey.
Wishing you a fantastic year ahead filled with adventure and wonderful memories!
Kana
