Things to do in Mount Aso (Kyushu, Japan)

Mount Aso as viewed from Daikanbō Lookout (Kyushu, Japan)

Mount Aso, located in central Kyushu (Japan), is the largest active volcano in Japan and also one of the largest in the world. The volcano is listed as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Its expansive crater, which often emits volcanic gases, offers a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape that attracts visitors year-round. Join us, while we explore the top things to do at Mount Aso!

Date visited: Nov-2023

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Things to do in Mount Aso (Kyushu, Japan)

(listed in random order)

#1: Makinoto Observatory 牧ノ戸展望台 (Google Map)

Makinoto Observatory, situated in the Aso-Kuju National Park in Kyushu, Japan, offers stunning panoramic views of the Kuju Mountain Range. This scenic spot is trendy for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset vistas, as well as the vibrant autumn foliage.

#2: Yamanami Highway Observatory やまなみハイウェイ展望台 (Google Map)

A small but excellent vista point along the scenic Yamanami Highway which connects Beppu to Mount Aso. It offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the iconic Mount Aso and Kuju Mountain Range. It is an ideal stop for those exploring the picturesque landscapes of the region.

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#3: Daikanbō Lookout 大観峰展望所 (Google Map)

Hands down the MOST scenic point in our Kyushu road trip!

At an altitude of 936m, Daikanbo is the highest point of Mt. Aso’s northern outer rim, providing a panoramic view of the five peaks within Mt. Aso’s massive caldera and the surrounding rolling hills. It is a popular destination for tourists and photographers, offering one of the best spots to appreciate the grandeur of Aso’s volcanic terrain. A MUST-SEE in Kyushu!

Daikanbō Lookout 大観峰展望所 (Mount Aso, Kyushu, Japan)

Hands down the MOST scenic point in our Kyushu road trip! (Daikanbō Lookout, Mount Aso)

It is a popular destination for tourists and photographers, offering one of the best spots to appreciate the grandeur of Aso's volcanic terrain. (Daikanbō Lookout, Mount Aso) — It is a popular destination for tourists and photographers, offering one of the best spots to appreciate the grandeur of Aso’s volcanic terrain. (Daikanbō Lookout, Mount Aso)

Daikanbō: A panoramic view of the five peaks within Mt. Aso’s massive caldera and the surrounding rolling hills.

A panoramic view of the five peaks within Mt. Aso’s massive caldera and the surrounding rolling hills (Daikanbō Lookout, Mount Aso)

One of the best spots to appreciate the grandeur of Aso's volcanic terrain (Daikanbō Lookout, Mount Aso) — One of the best spots to appreciate the grandeur of Aso’s volcanic terrain (Daikanbō Lookout, Mount Aso)

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#4: Aso Nakadake Crater 阿蘇中岳火口 (Google Map)

When the volcanic activity is low and there’s no toxic smoke, visitors can drive up to the craters! Here, visitors can witness the dramatic landscape of the craters, which often includes steaming fumaroles and a vibrant, turquoise volcanic lake. The area offers a unique and close-up experience of volcanic activity, making it a fascinating destination.A unique experience! Another must-see!

Aso Nakadake Crater 阿蘇中岳火口 (Mount Aso, Kyushu, Japan)

Visitors can witness the dramatic landscape of the craters (Aso Nakadake Crater, Mount Aso, Kyushu, Japan)

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#5: Kusasenrigahama 草千里ヶ浜 (Google Map)

Located along the route to Nakadake Craters, Kusasenrigahama (Kusasenri Plateau) is an expansive grassland in the highlands of Mt. Aso. The plain offers stunning views of the surrounding volcanic peaks and is characterized by its rolling green fields dotted with grazing horses and cattle. Excellent spot for photography and a must-see!

Mount Aso's Nakadake Craters as viewed from Kusasenrigahama — Mount Aso’s Nakadake Craters as viewed from Kusasenrigahama

The plain offers stunning views of the surrounding volcanic peaks and is characterized by its rolling green fields dotted with grazing horses and cattle.

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#6: Kusasenri Observatory 草千里展望所 (Google Map) (End)

A short walk/drive from Kusasenrigahama, Kusasenri Observatory is an elevated viewing platform offering splendid panoramic views of Kusasenrigahama and the distant Nakadake Craters. As with all sites at Mount Aso, this is another must-see view!