Aso (the Aso region, Kumamoto Pref.)

This steaming, active volcano crater is unique because it is as the only place in the world where tourists can look down into the mouth of a volcano. The crater is even now steaming with white smoke and the surrounding area is covered with volcanic lava, creating an unworldly scene with no greenery at all.

Aso Volcano Museum in Kusasenri is an amusement space where visitors can indulge in everything that Aso has to offer. Here you can view a monitor showing the state of the active crater from the comfort of the inside of the museum building and take in the spectacular beauty of Kusansenri spread out before your eyes.

Situated halfway up Mount Aso National Park, Aso Farmland is a vast theme park that provides the chance to spend a fun-filled day. The park consists of an expansive stretch of land, a shopping zone and restaurants, a natural hot springs resort, domed lodgings, and the like. Visitors can also try their hand at "tole painting" ("tin painting" of ordinary objects using acrylic paint) and making music boxes.