Mt. Aso Nakadake Crater — Active Volcano You Can Approach

**Real-time activity monitoring:** Check the Aso Volcano Museum's website (aso-geopark.jp) for current volcanic alert level before visiting. Level 1 = full access to crater rim, Level 2 = restricted access, Level 3+ = closed. The website updates hourly. **Kusasenri Plateau:** On the approach road, Kusasenri is a 1km-wide grass meadow inside the caldera with grazing horses and a small pond — the most photographed Aso landscape. Free access, parking ¥500. Walk the full circumference (40 min) for changing mountain views. **Aso Shrine recovery:** The 2016 earthquake destroyed the historic Aso Shrine tower gate (romon). Reconstruction was completed in 2023 — the new cypress gate uses traditional joinery techniques. Free entry, 15 minutes from Aso Station.