The Aso Volcano Museum is running a VR experience event throughout the summer holidays, giving visitors a chance to float above the Aso caldera without leaving the building. Put on a VR headset and you’ll get a full 360° aerial view of Mt. Aso’s volcanic landscape, crystal-clear water sources, and the sweeping grasslands that make this region so iconic. The museum is also approaching its 3 million visitor milestone — so it’s a great time to visit.
Sessions are held twice a day in the 2F Mini Theater Room, with each session lasting 30 minutes and limited to just 12 people. Advance planning is recommended, especially during peak Obon week (August 11–16), when crowds across the Aso area tend to be heavy.
Event Schedule
| Dates | Morning Session | Afternoon Session | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 25 (Sat) & 26 (Sun) | 10:50–11:20 | 13:50–14:20 | 12 per session |
| Aug 1 (Sat) & 2 (Sun) | 10:50–11:20 | 13:50–14:20 | 12 per session |
| Aug 8 (Sat) & 9 (Sun) | 10:50–11:20 | 13:50–14:20 | 12 per session |
| Aug 11 (Tue) & 12 (Wed) | 10:50–11:20 | 13:50–14:20 | 12 per session |
| Aug 13 (Thu) & 14 (Fri) | 10:50–11:20 | 13:50–14:20 | 12 per session |
| Aug 15 (Sat) & 16 (Sun) | 10:50–11:20 | 13:50–14:20 | 12 per session |
| Aug 22 (Sat) & 23 (Sun) | 10:50–11:20 | 13:50–14:20 | 12 per session |
Key Details
| Venue | Aso Volcano Museum, 2F Mini Theater Room |
| VR Experience Fee | ¥500 (museum admission also required) |
| Total Event Days | 14 days |
| Duration | 30 minutes per session |
Note that the VR experience is only available to visitors who have paid regular museum admission — you cannot book the VR session on its own. If you’re planning a trip to Aso during Obon, be sure to check the traffic advisory for the Kusasenri area before you head out, as roads around the grasslands can get congested.
Source: 阿蘇火山博物館
