Day trip to Mount Aso

I wish to do a day trip to Mount Aso, will be renting a car. So I have the following questions:

1. Nearest car park around Mount Aso?
   1. From looking at Google Maps, looks like here is the best? https://maps.app.goo.gl/xWp7K4LBh8serZJs9
2. How long is the hike to get good viewpoint of mount aso? is it easy?
3. What's a good website I can use to check live updates on the volcano eruption levels? Heard they won't let you pass certain points depending on eruption levels, so I won't bother making the day trip if that's the case.
4. I heard there is some helicopter ride you can take, that will drive you around. Does anyone know any, and the price/length of it?
5. Anything else to do/see around the area?