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Photo: Sonata / Sonata at ja.wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The volcano is still active and sulphuric steam can be seen coming from the Mt. Nakadake crater. However, you should be aware that the summit of the crater has been extensively geared for Japanese mass tourism - paved roads can take you right up to the crater and it can get quite crowded during the peak season. However, if you want to get away from the crowds, you don't have to walk too far. The site is not limited to immediate surroundings of the crater. Do not hesitate to spend one hour or more walking on the path to explore the beautiful scenery.
Mount Aso or Aso Volcano is the second largest active volcano in Japan after Mount Fuji, and among the largest in the world. Common use relates often only to the somma volcano in the centre of Aso Caldera. It stands in Aso Kujū National Park in Kumamoto Prefecture, on the island of Kyushu. Its tallest peak, Takadake, is 1,592 meters (5,223 ft) above sea level. Mount Aso is in a fairly large caldera with a circumference of around 120 km (75 mi), although sources vary on the exact distance. It is one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains.
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阿蘇火山博物館, Aso-kazan Hakubutsukan
米塚
A nice small volcano cone to see on the way. It erupted 3000 years ago and now stands 80 meters high, with a perfectly symmetric shape. Climbing it is forbidden, in order to protect its cute green slopes.
阿蘇神社, aso jinja
An old shrine dedicated to the god of transportation and traffic safety.
阿蘇猿まわし劇場
This theater has man and a monkey stage shows.