Updated: September 2, 2026
On September 1, 2026, at 4:00 PM, the Japan Meteorological Agency lowered the volcanic alert level for Mount Aso from Level 3 (Do Not Approach the Volcano) to Level 2 (Do Not Approach the Crater).
From 9:00 AM on September 2, the restricted area was reduced from approximately 2 km to approximately 1 km around Nakadake No. 1 Crater.
Can I visit Kusasenri?
Yes. Kusasenri is open and can be visited as usual.
Kusasenri is located outside the current 1 km restricted zone and remains accessible to visitors.
The Aso Sanjo Terminal area is also accessible again following the reduction of the restricted area.
Visitors can continue to enjoy Kusasenri, its grassland scenery, the Kusasenri Observatory, the Aso Volcano Museum and other attractions around the area.
Please note that Nakadake Crater itself remains closed to visitors, and entry into the restricted area surrounding the crater is prohibited.
Hiking on Mount Aso
With the volcanic alert level lowered to Level 2, hiking opportunities around Mount Aso have increased again.
Nakadake & Takadake
Under Volcanic Alert Level 2, the area within approximately 1 km of Nakadake No. 1 Crater remains off-limits.
However, Nakadake and Takadake can be accessed using designated hiking routes that avoid the restricted area, including:
- Sarayama Detour Route – from the Aso Sanjo side
- Suzume-iwa Detour Route – from the Sensuikyo side
Please be aware that trail access may change depending on volcanic activity, weather, trail conditions or safety inspections.
Always check the latest official hiking and volcanic information before beginning your hike.
Kishimadake & Eboshidake
Kishimadake and Eboshidake, located around the Kusasenri area, are outside the immediate crater restriction zone.
Hiking is possible on available routes, although some sections of trails around Mount Aso may remain closed due to previous earthquake damage, heavy rainfall or other trail conditions.
Please check the latest trail information before setting out.
What is currently restricted?
🚫 Entry within approximately 1 km of Nakadake No. 1 Crater
🚫 Visiting Nakadake Crater
🚫 Entering any closed or restricted hiking routes
What can I visit?
✅ Kusasenri
✅ Kusasenri Observatory
✅ Aso Volcano Museum
✅ Aso Sanjo Plaza / Aso Sanjo Terminal area
✅ Many hiking areas outside the restricted zone
✅ Other major sightseeing areas throughout Aso
The current volcanic restrictions apply only to the area immediately surrounding Nakadake Crater.
Most sightseeing areas in Aso remain open and accessible.
Before Hiking
Mount Aso is an active volcano. Even under Volcanic Alert Level 2, volcanic activity continues.
Hikers should:
- Check the latest volcanic and trail information before departure
- Follow all signs, barriers and instructions from local authorities
- Stay out of restricted areas
- Be aware of volcanic gases, particularly when downwind of the crater
- Submit a hiking notification before climbing
- Be prepared for sudden changes in mountain weather
Volcanic activity and access restrictions may change at short notice.
Please check the latest official information before visiting or hiking on Mount Aso.
For the latest information from Michi no Eki Aso (NPO ASO Rural Space Museum)
Opening hours: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Official website: https://www.aso-denku.jp/en/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/michinoekiasostagramen/
