Kumamoto’s Majestic Landscapes: Up Close with Mount Aso Volcano

Text by Lai Peixuan | Photos provided by Chi Binghui, MOOK

 

The wonders of nature never cease to amaze, but visiting Mount Aso in Kumamoto might just take your breath away. Situated in Aso-Kuju National Park in northeastern Kumamoto Prefecture on Japan’s Kyushu Island, this destination lets you face the awe-inspiring force of an active volcano and take a cable car for a close-up look at the world’s largest caldera — which is also Japan’s largest complex volcano.

 

 

Mount Aso is one of the few active volcanoes in the world, which is why Kumamoto has long been known as the “Land of Fire.” In fact, Mount Aso consists of five peaks: Takadake, Nakadake, Kijimadake, Eboshidake, and Nekodake. Among them, Nakadake remains highly active to this day, attracting many curious visitors eager to witness the spectacular and thrilling scenes of an active volcano.

 

After experiencing the thrill of the crater, you can also visit the Aso Volcano Museum at the foot of Nakadake to learn about the formation and history of the volcano through exhibits. Discover details such as the process of the volcano’s creation, local flora and fauna unique to the area, as well as Aso’s history and culture, for a deeper understanding of this volcanic wonder.

In addition, the expansive “Kusachiro” features endless green meadows and a lake with a diameter of one kilometer. Cattle and horses graze on the grassy plains, creating a tranquil natural scene that forms a stark contrast to the crater. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding and leisurely walks here to soak in the beautiful scenery of Aso. Meanwhile, the small and charming “Mount Komeyama” is located on the northern slope of Nakadake. With a slightly sunken summit resembling a grain of rice, the mountain is steeped in an ancient legend about a deity who was said to have piled rice here to distribute to the poor.