Happy New Year!
I hope you and your loved ones are surrounded by joy and happiness in 2025.
While winter is usually considered the off-season for Aso, we’ve been seeing more visitors during this time, especially since the end of the pandemic. I’d like to share a few tips for enjoying Mount Aso in the winter months.
With the winter solstice on December 21st, the days are getting longer. If you’re planning to rent a car and explore Aso, even if you head up to the mountain area later in the day, you may still catch a beautiful sunset.
The gate to the crater viewing spot closes at 4:30 p.m. during the winter season (until March 19th), and all buildings shut by 5:00 p.m. However, the Kusasenri parking lot remains open, giving you a chance to stay a bit longer and enjoy a stunning sunset from this area.
The changing colors of the smoke rising from the Aso Nakadake crater—from white to orange, pink, and gray—offer a truly spectacular natural show.
Sunset time in January is around 5:00 to 5:30 p.m., and it can get quite cold at the mountain’s altitude, so be sure to dress warmly. Also, don’t forget to equip your rental car with snow tires for a safer journey.
Wishing you a fantastic year ahead filled with adventure and wonderful memories!
Kana
⚠️ Grazing Horses Are Dangerous! ⚠️
For your safety at Kusasenri, the following activities are strictly prohibited.
Horses are large, powerful animals and may behave unpredictably. Please be extremely cautious of the following:
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Do not approach the horses.
Touching or getting too close to the horses is very dangerous. Please do not attempt to touch them under any circumstances. -
Do not make sudden movements or loud noises.
Horses are easily startled. Avoid surprising them with abrupt movements or loud sounds. -
Do not feed the horses.
Feeding the horses is strictly prohibited. To protect their health, please refrain from offering any food.
Please follow these rules to ensure your safety and the well-being of the horses.
We appreciate your cooperation.
