Aso

Mount Aso (阿蘇山, Asosan) is a large active volcano in the center of Kyushu. The mountain's caldera, created by multiple gigantic eruption in the distant past, is with a circumference of over 100 kilometers one of the largest in the world. Surrounded by a circular rim, the caldera contains multiple rural towns and wide areas of rice fields.

In the center of the caldera stand the currently active peaks of the volcano. The main crater can be accessed and viewed by tourists, but gets occasionally closed due to high levels of volcanic gases. On the grassy slopes of the volcanic peaks graze horses and cows, making for scenic, pastoral views.

Although its origins are uncertain, Aso Shrine is believed to have been founded almost two thousand years ago at the end of the Yayoi Period (300 BC to 300 AD). It was considered one of the most important shrines in the surrounding Higo Province (present day Kumamoto Prefecture).

The shrine's most impressive feature is its two story Romon Gate, which is one of Japan's three largest gates in this style. Behind the gate visitors will come upon the Haiden, the shrine's offering hall. There are twelve deities that are enshrined at Aso Shrine, including one god who is believed to have created the Aso area. The shrine also has a pine tree that is believed to give good fortune for marriage.