Jun 24, 2014 - 1 min read

The Power of Mother Nature

The fuming caldera of Aso Volcano

Community writer

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The view from above onto the huge plain next to one of the older extinct cones. It is a volcanic desert, almost leaving you with the impression to have entered another planet.

There are several smaller caldera and cones inside the Aso caldera, but only one is still active and constantly fuming; it is called Naka-dake.

There is a parking lot pretty close to the crater rim, and on foot you can get even closer and have a look into the steaming caldera of Naka-dake.

A close-up of the crater lake on the bottom of Naka-dake's caldera, also showing the various vents releasing the steam. The accompanying sound is something you have to experience; it is the sound of Mother Earth.

The crater floor of an extinct caldera where rain water has created beautiful pattern and shades.

Climbing Naka-dake, the peak right next to the steaming caldera, spoils you with excellent views of the whole area.

Aso Volcano in central Kyushu is one of the largest calderas in the world, measuring roughly 20 kilometers in diameter. While a large part oft the caldera has turned into fertile soil (a blessing for the area’s agriculture), the volcanic activity is more than visible; you can hear it and you can even smell it. There are several craters inside Aso Caldera and Naka-dake is the active one, constantly fuming and releasing toxic gases. You don’t have to worry though, as access to the viewing platform is only granted when it's safe. Hey, we are in Japan!

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By Nicole Bauer

Community writer

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Nicole Bauer Photographer 11 years ago

I am so glad too, Mandy! It was wonderful. Definitely would like to go again!

Mandy Bartok 11 years ago

So happy to see you made it down to Kumamoto after all, Nicole. Hope you had a great trip!

Nicole Bauer Photographer 11 years ago

Thank you Yui. There is lots to do and to see in the area for nature lovers, and yes, the hot springs are awesome, too!

Yui Yamaguchi 11 years ago

These look like film set! Your photo captures yellow colour from sulfur which is interesting. We're very fortunate to enjoy hot spring because of great Aso!

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