Mt. Aso (Takadake)

Mt. Aso (Takadake) is the highest peak of Mt. Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture, with an elevation of 1,592 m. You can drive to the Aso Summit Drive-in, but from there it becomes a walk. It’s not like a full-scale mountaineering expedition, but it is still hiking, so pay attention to clothing, shoes, and your health. Mt. Aso’s caldera is said to be the largest in the world, measuring about 25 km north-south and 18 km east-west, with an area of about 380 km². From the mountain, you can see 360-degree views including Nekodake, the Aso Five Peaks, and surrounding mountains such as Sobo and Kuju—an “absolute scenery” after the climb. Since Aso is an active volcano, you can also see smoke rising from Nakadake. When visiting as a tourist, it’s worth not only viewing Mt. Aso from afar but also climbing for the experience. Access: from Miyaji Station, it’s about 15 minutes by car, then about 80 minutes on foot. You can park at Aso Sanjo Plaza; the trailhead is along the Aso Mountain Park Road.