The Daikanbo Viewpoint

Martina Livraghi Discover Japan 196 view(s)

Daikanbo is a natural viewpoint offering the best 360-degree panoramic view of Aso.

Daikanbo is a natural viewpoint offering the best 360-degree panoramic view of Aso, from which you can see the five peaks of Aso and the Kuju mountain range. It is said that the five peaks of Aso, when viewed from Daikanbo, resemble a reclining Buddha.

Daikanbo

During the autumn and winter months, you can witness a phenomenon known as unkai, whereby low-lying clouds part to reveal mountain peaks, giving the impression that they are rising from a sea of clouds.

Unkai

Another truly beautiful sight is the sunset viewed from Minamiaso between Mount Yomine and Mount Eboshi, and the view of the Nangodani Valley is equally beautiful and evocative.

Tramonto

Tramonto

Valle di Nangodani

Valle di Nangodani

What to see

Aso Kusasenri

Kusasenri is a vast grassy plain offering splendid views of Nakadake Peak and a large pond; you can also see horses grazing there.

Cavalli al pascolo

As the seasons change, this plain offers breathtaking scenery: in summer, lush green grass; in winter, everything is blanketed in white. This ever-changing landscape makes Kusasenri a place well worth visiting at any time of year.

Aso Kusasenri in inverno

Aso Kusasenri in inverno

Aso Kusasenri in primavera

Aso Kusasenri in primavera

For those looking for a bit of excitement, there are activities such as horse riding and hiking.

Mount Aso

The Mount Aso caldera is the largest in the world, and at its centre lie five mountains – Mt Nekodake, Mt Takadake, Mt Nakadake, Mt Eboshidake and Mt Kishimadake – known collectively as the Aso Gogaku. Mount Nakadake is still active, and you can see the enormous crater up close as it emits white smoke, creating a magnificent view. When volcanic activity is high, it becomes difficult to get close.

Mt. Aso

Caldera

Mt.Nekodake

Mt.Nekodake

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