On Sunday, June 21, 2026, at 4:00 p.m., the Fukuoka Regional Headquarters of the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that the volcanic alert level for Mt. Aso has been raised to Level 2: Do not approach the crater.
Level 2 does not mean that the entire Aso area is closed. The restriction mainly applies to the area around Nakadake Crater. Visitors planning to travel to Mt. Aso, Kusasenri, or other nearby sightseeing areas are advised to check the latest official information before departure and follow all instructions from local authorities, road signs, and on-site staff.
For general sightseeing information, please also see our Mount Aso travel guide and access information for Aso.
✅Areas That Remain Accessible
The following areas are generally accessible, but conditions may change depending on volcanic activity, weather, road closures, and safety inspections.
- Kusasenri and the area around Aso Volcano Museum
- Aso City area
- Aso Station and Michi-no-Eki Aso
- Aso Shrine and Monzenmachi Shopping Street
- Daikanbo and other viewpoints on the outer rim of the Aso caldera
For more visitor information and alternative viewpoints, see our guide: Mt. Aso Guide: Best Views When the Crater Is Closed.
❌Restricted Areas
The following areas are currently restricted or may be closed under Level 2 conditions.
- Nakadake Crater No. 1 viewing area.(Crater viewing platform )
- Areas within approximately 1 km of the crater
- Roads leading from the Aso Sanjo Bus Terminal parking area toward the crater
- Certain hiking trails and walking paths
- Areas beyond barricades, closure signs, or restricted zones
Please do not enter restricted areas under any circumstances. The situation around an active volcano can change quickly, and restrictions are in place for visitor safety.
Map of Volcanic Control Zones
Hiking Information: Nakadake and Takadake
Under Volcanic Alert Level 2, hiking to Mt. Nakadake and Mt. Takadake still be possible. Before starting your hike, please check the official Level 2 route map.
Please check the official Level 2 map here:
Mt. Takadake and Mt. Nakadake Level 2 map
For crater access and restriction updates, please check:
Aso Volcano Crater Restriction Information
Safety Precautions
Volcanic ash, volcanic gas, and small volcanic rocks may be affected by wind direction. Areas downwind of the crater may be especially affected.
Visitors with asthma, respiratory conditions, heart conditions, or other health concerns should take extra care around volcanic gas. If you smell volcanic gas or feel unwell, please move away from the area immediately.
We apologize for any inconvenience and kindly ask all visitors to prioritize safety. Please check the latest official information before traveling to Mt. Aso.
