Milk Road

The Aso caldera is a vast crater and somma volcano with a circumference of approximately 128 km around its perimeter. Across its northwestern outer ridgeline you’ll find a 45km stretch of scenic highway nicknamed “Milk Road”, found across the Prefectural Road 339 and Highway 45.

The nickname “Milk Road” comes from the road’s original history, serving as a hauling route for milk from the dairy farms in the valley. Just as the name might suggest, the drive is lined with idyllic green pastures, and gorgeous farmlands set at the foot of the mountain. There are a number of observation spots along the way including the double observation deck, Kabutoiwa Scenic Overlook, Nishiyunouraenchi Observatory and more spots with swooping panoramic views out over the caldera and the breathtaking 5 peaks of Aso at its back.

Near the Nishiyunouraenchi Observatory, Milk Road passes over the “Aso Skyline”, a road that continues on towards Daikanbo.