Aso, in Kumamoto Prefecture

 

Aso is located almost in the center of Kyushu and boasts one of the world’s largest

calderas, stretching 18 km east-west and 24 km north-south. It was created by four

periods of explosive volcanic activity in ancient times. The caldera is surrounded by

an outer rim with a circumference of around 120 km. Within the Aso Caldera, there

are the Aso Five Peaks, including Mt. Naka-dake—an active volcano where the

crater can be viewed from the top. Daikanbo Peak, on the northern part of the

outer rim, is a must-visit location offering panoramic views of the magnificent

scenery, including the Aso Five Peaks and the serene, beautiful green plains below