Exploring Aso Kuju National Park by Road Bike

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Discover Mt. Aso: Japan’s Most Active Volcano

Mt. Aso in Aso-Kuju National Park, central Kyushu, is Japan’s most active volcano. The huge caldera stretches 24 kilometres from north to south, surrounded by five peaks, known collectively as Aso Gogaku. Individually, they are Mt. Naka, Mt. Neko, Mt. Taka, Mt. Eboshi, and Mt. Kishima. Mt. Naka, with a milky green lake wreathed in smoke, is the most active peak, and the main attraction in the region. After the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, access to Mt. Naka was temporarily restricted, but the tourist route is now open again. It is a rare opportunity to see an active volcano up close. However, due to search operations following a sightseeing helicopter accident, access to the crater of Mt. Aso’s Nakadake is currently restricted.

Please do not enter the restricted area under any circumstances, as it is dangerous.

Nonethless, you may visit Kusasenri, the Aso Volcano Museum, and the Mountain Top Terminal in front of the gate as usual. Please check the latest information on restrictions in English at http://www.aso.ne.jp/~volcano/eng/.

The Natural Wonders of Takachiho Gorge in Northern Miyazaki

This spectacular gorge in northern Miyazaki was formed over 100,000 years ago after eruptions from nearby volcano Mt. Aso. The gorge’s 80- to 100-metre-high basalt cliffs line a chasm, just 3 metres wide at its narrowest point. The dark abysses are complemented by vivid greenery in early summer and red-tinted leaves in autumn. You can see the gorge from above and below, along paths and bridges that span the river. For a unique and up-close look at the gorge, rent a boat at the south end and row along the Gokase River, through the ancient rock columns. You can also walk the perimeter of the gorge on the paved path that runs along its edge. The path is about one kilometre long and leads to Takachiho Shrine. You can see the 17-metre-high Manai Falls from above or from a rowboat below, as the waters splash into the river. The southern end of the gorge features a fishing pond, an aquarium, restaurants, and gift shops. There are also traditional inns and hotels nearby. If you visit in the summer months, try to see the special illuminations in the gorge until 10 PM each night.
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