Nakadake (1506 m) in the center of Mt. Aso is a volcano that continues to be active. You can see the volcanic crater up close. There are seven craters in Nakadake, and the first crater is currently active and can be seen. It can be reached near a huge crater with a circumference of about 4 km. When the gas clears, you can see the emerald green lake at the bottom of the crater, which is filled with 50 ~ 60 °C hot water.
However, if the volcanic alert level is 2 or higher, access is restricted. That is when the volcanic gas concentration exceeds the standard value or when volcanic activity is active. Therefore, you need to check on the website beforehand.
A ropeway used to run to the crater, but it was destroyed by an explosive eruption in 2016 and the line was abandoned. It can now be accessed via the Mt. Aso Park Road, a toll road that connects the Aso Sanjo Public Square and the parking lot next to the Nakadake crater. If the parking lot next to the crater is full, or if you come by a large bus, transfer to the Mt. Aso Crater Shuttle Bus at Mt. Aso Sanjo Square to get to the crater.
Highlights
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The crater of Mt. Aso where smoke rises from the emerald green crater lake.
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Drive on the toll road or take the Mt. Aso crater shuttle bus.
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Entry is restricted when the volcanic alert level is 2 or higher.
