Aso Mountain in Kumamoto Prefecture, located in central Kyushu, is one of the world’s largest caldera formations and remains an active volcano.
It is designated as both a Japanese and Global Geopark, and the surrounding area is home to some of Japan’s most renowned hot spring towns, along with delicious local specialties such as Akaushi beef, horse meat, and takana pickles. It’s a major travel destination packed with natural and culinary attractions.
One of the absolute must-dos in Aso is a scenic drive through its incredible viewpoints. You’ll witness majestic mountains and calderas you won’t find anywhere else.
I recently visited Aso, and although the weather wasn’t perfect, I still got to enjoy its impressive views.
So in this post, I’ll introduce three scenic viewpoints you absolutely must visit in Aso!
① Daikanbo
Without a doubt the most famous viewpoint in Aso, Daikanbo is located to the north of Mt. Aso. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from Kumamoto City and around 2 hours from Fukuoka City.
Despite visiting on a weekday afternoon in April, the place was quite crowded—no surprise for such a popular tourist spot.
Many motorcyclists also stopped by while touring.
Near the parking lot, there are souvenir shops and tea stalls. From there, it’s a short uphill walk to the main viewing area.
It looks long in the photo, but the distance is totally manageable—don’t worry!
Welcome to Daikanbo!
The boxed area in the photo below is the prime viewpoint.
From here, you can see the vast caldera created by ancient volcanic activity. It’s incredible!
While there are larger calderas in places like Hokkaido and around the world, it’s rare to find such a well-developed settlement inside one.
Although the sky was cloudy and hazy that day, the scenery was still breathtaking.
Daikanbo is a fantastic scenic spot just 2 hours from Fukuoka.
In April, the landscape still has a muted color, but it will soon turn lush and green heading into summer.
② Mt. Aso Ropeway
The Mt. Aso Ropeway once carried visitors close to the crater area. However, due to increased volcanic activity as of 2015, operations are suspended and only the Aso West Station is accessible.
This faded tea house adds a nostalgic touch. The volcanic ash all around is a reminder of the mountain’s raw power.
Roads were closed off. As curious as I was, staying safe is more important!
There’s even a small police box by the parking lot.
As in many parts of Aso, large groups of Asian tourists were arriving by bus. While manners are sometimes a concern, it’s great to see more people discovering Japan.
I stopped by the inner shrine at Aso Shrine to pay respects.
The combination of withered vegetation and ash-colored slopes gave the area a stark, almost apocalyptic look. I’d like to return when it’s safer to view the crater, but even this scene was unforgettable.
Even the shrine grounds were blanketed in ash.
The waiting room resembled an abandoned building.
The ropeway terminal, now out of service.
Inside, souvenir shops and eateries remained open. I even tried the “volcanic ash soft serve”!
③ Kabuto Rock Observatory
Compared to the previous two spots, Kabuto Rock Observatory is more of a hidden gem. It’s located northwest of Mt. Aso.
The area includes a parking lot, restrooms, and a small shop.
This road across the street leads to the viewpoint.
The name comes from a nearby peak said to resemble a samurai helmet. It’s introduced alongside Daikanbo as a top viewpoint.
Once again, you’re treated to sweeping views of Aso’s caldera and mountain range.
You could stand here forever and never get bored. Next time, I hope for sunny skies.
Nearby, the shop is a bit unusual—they sell Frankfurt sausages that won a gold medal in a German competition…
…alongside souvenirs, handicrafts, and even imported goods like shirts and accessories. Why here in Aso? Perhaps it’s the owner’s personal taste.
Final Thoughts
I’ve only introduced three spots here, but Aso is full of scenic locations. Honestly, every road you drive in Aso could be called a scenic route—it’s that stunning.
You can reach it from Fukuoka by rental car in just two hours. With amazing views, tasty food, and soothing hot springs, Aso is a must-visit travel destination!
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