Kumamoto

Mount Aso in Kumamoto is one of the world’s largest active volcanic calderas, home to five smoking peaks, vast grasslands, and some of Kyushu’s most famous hot springs. This complete first-timer’s guide covers how to get there from Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, the best hikes around Nakadake crater and Kusasenri, where to stay in Aso Town and Kurokawa Onsen, what to eat (akaushi beef, dengaku, Aso milk), and practical safety tips for visiting Japan’s most accessible active volcano.

Complete guide to Kumamoto and Mount Aso: visiting the world’s largest active caldera, exploring the restored Kumamoto Castle, soaking in Kurokawa Onsen’s famous outdoor baths, and tasting Kumamoto’s unique foods including basashi horse sashimi and Aso beef. Prices in yen and USD included.