Hello again everyone,
Having only moved this year during the spring time, I am now experiencing my first winter in Aso.
The contrast between the winter time in Aso and that of my previous home, Okinawa, has left me both speechless and more often than not completely breathless.
Originally being from England, I believed I knew what true cold really was and that I was entirely built to not only survive but thrive in it.
Recently this has proven not to be the case as I have been spending a tremendous amount on clothing and homeware in an effort to stay warm in what I now feel is extreme cold.
Although previously being warned by my colleagues about the extreme temperature, the change did not come gradually, there was a drop from 19 degrees to -2 within a lunchtime.
Despite spending most of my mornings and night times shivering with teeth chattering, dreaming of being back on the beach to celebrate the Christmas period, the stunning natural beauty of this season makes it all worthwhile.
The mountain range that I have grown so close to in the recent year has offered up an entirely new landscape and a new challenge for those looking to conquer its peaks.
Believing there would have been a steep decrease in enquiries regarding visiting and climbing the mountains during this season, I was surprised by the steady amount of visitors to our tourist desk still looking for mountain/hiking information.
Whilst hiking in the mountains this time of year can be equally dangerous and rewarding, there are still activities and sightseeing options open to those not wishing to go to the extreme.
One of these is visiting the grasslands of Kusasenri that can be reached by car equipped with winter tires or by bus from Aso station.
Also accessible by car or bus is the Mt. Nakadake active volcano crater which offers fantastic winter views.
A short 45 minute hike can also be accessed easily and does not include any strenuous elevation climbs in the way of a stroll around the unique Sunasenri.
While not being ideal for some, I would still strongly recommend visiting Aso during the winter season for the truly impressive scenery. Remember not to worry if you get too cold as Aso is also renowned for its hot springs and there is no better season to enjoy relaxing after a long day in the naturally warmed water.
