12 Most Beautiful Volcanoes in Japan, it is home to a remarkable number of active volcanoes, with 109 in total, making up approximately 10 percent of all active volcanoes worldwide. This abundance of volcanic peaks can be attributed to Japan‘s geographical location, as its 6,800 islands are situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for its intense seismic activity. Consequently, Japan is highly susceptible to both earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
The impact of these natural phenomena on Japanese culture and the development of its densely-populated coastal cities cannot be overstated. While the local population has long revered and worshipped the smoldering volcanoes, which have served as inspiration for countless artworks and haikus, they also offer exceptional opportunities for hiking and mountaineering. Among the many mountains and volcanoes in Japan, Mount Fuji stands out as the nation’s most significant and iconic symbol.
Suwanosejima
Suwanosejima, the second-largest island in the Tokara archipelago, rises dramatically from the shimmering waters of the East China Sea. At its center stands one of Japan’s and the world’s most active volcanoes, a 796-meter high cone. Due to its frequent and violent eruptions, the island is home to only around 50 people, and has been abandoned several times in its history. Despite the danger, the stratovolcano’s barren slopes make an impressive sight against the sparkling sea. Located around a nine-hour boat journey from mainland Japan, reaching the subtropical Suwanosejima and its smoking volcano is no easy feat.
Shinmoedake
Shinmoedake, a part of the Mount Kirishima group of volcanoes located on Kyushu, Japan’s third-largest island, boasts a stunning crater. The most notable and captivating feature of this volcano is its enormous crater, which gained fame as the base of the villain Blofeld in the 1967 James Bond film “You Only Live Twice.” Previously, this crater housed a magnificent lake, but unfortunately, it is now concealed beneath a lava dome resulting from the volcano’s recent eruption in 2018. Shinmoedake offers an exceptional hiking experience, allowing you to relish breathtaking panoramas of the numerous mountains within Kirishima-Yaku National Park from its elevated rim, standing at 1,421 meters.
Mount Kusatsu-Shirane
Mount Kusatsu-Shirane, located in Gunma Prefecture, towers above the onsen town of Kusatsu and is a highly sought-after destination for its breathtaking scenery, impressive peak, and extensive network of well-marked hiking trails. Comprising a series of overlapping volcanic cones, the summit of this majestic mountain reaches an elevation of 2,171 meters, boasting three stunning crater lakes nestled within its higher reaches.
Among these lakes, Yugama stands out with its vibrant waters that create a striking contrast against the barren landscapes surrounding it. During the summer and spring seasons, Mount Kusatsu-Shirane attracts numerous visitors who come to explore its numerous hiking trails, while winter months offer excellent skiing opportunities. Furthermore, the bubbling springs at the base of the volcano are a perennial attraction, drawing visitors throughout the year.
Mount Ontake
Mount Ontake, the second-highest volcano in Japan, stands tall at 3,067 meters and is a dominant feature of its surroundings. The volcano boasts five stunning crater lakes, with Nino being the highest altitude lake in the country at 2,905 meters. This sacred mountain has been a pilgrimage site for many years, attracting hikers and worshipers who come to experience its breathtaking natural beauty and stunning views from the summit. In addition to its spiritual significance, Mount Ontake also offers magnificent hot springs and ski resorts. Despite its generally safe reputation, the volcano erupted unexpectedly in 2014, resulting in the tragic loss of 63 lives.
Mount Asama
Mount Asama, situated in the heart of Honshu, Japan’s main island, rises to a height of 2,568 meters (8,425 feet) above sea level, dominating the resort town of Karuizawa. The mountain is renowned for its 1783 eruption, which claimed the lives of 1,500 people. Mount Asama is Honshu’s most active volcano, with its most recent eruption occurring in 2009, sending ash as far as Tokyo. Despite the potential danger of another eruption, Mount Asama remains a popular holiday destination, attracting visitors who come to ski on the adjacent slopes and enjoy the natural hot springs in the area.
Sakurajima
The stratovolcano Sakurajima, consisting of three volcanoes, towers over the historical city of Kagoshima on Kyushu Island. Among them, Minami-dake is the volcano that has shown recent activity. It frequently releases ash, which falls upon the city below. Those who seek adventure and wish to witness a live volcano up close are seldom let down. Although climbing up to the perilous crater’s edge is prohibited for visitors, the Yunohira Lookout offers splendid views. This lookout can be reached either on foot in approximately two hours or by car within minutes.
Mount Unzen
The group of volcanoes known as Mount Unzen is located near the city of Shimabara on the island of Kyushu. These volcanoes have a history of eruptions dating back six million years, although they were believed to have become dormant until recently. In 1934, a national park was established in the area, and a small village was built to accommodate visitors.
However, in 1990, Mount Fugen, one of the volcanoes, started a series of eruptions. Presently, the mountain is dormant again, allowing visitors to climb its 1,359 meter (4,459 foot) peak and enjoy breathtaking views. To make the trek shorter, most hikers choose to approach the climb from Mount Myoken, which can be reached by a three-minute gondola ride from Nita Pass.
Mount Aso
Mount Aso, also known as Aso-san, consists of five distinct volcanic peaks. Situated on the southern island of Kyushu in Japan, near the city of Kumamoto, the Aso-san volcanic area is of such immense size that entire villages are located within its boundaries. The primary highlight of the region is Mount Nakadake, one of the five active volcanoes, which attracts significant attention.
However, when this volcano emits gases, the entire area is closed off for safety reasons. The other peaks in the vicinity are also popular tourist destinations. Visitors can embark on various treks in the area, ranging from short walks to full-day hikes. Adjacent to the Mount Aso Museum, there is a heliport where visitors have the opportunity to arrange awe-inspiring, albeit costly, flyovers.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, Japan’s most iconic landmark, is a popular destination for tourists and climbers alike, with over 300,000 people scaling its heights each year. According to legend, the mountain was created in a single day, but geologists believe it formed over an older volcano around 10,000 years ago. Despite the challenging climb, there is a post office at the summit for those who make it to the top to send postcards home. For those seeking a less strenuous experience, Tenjo-Yama Park offers stunning views of the mountain from its cable car and Fuji Viewing Platform, located 1,000 meters above sea level.
Mount Usu
Located in the western part of Hokkaido, Mount Usu is situated amidst breathtaking landscapes within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Despite its modest height of 733 meters, this stratovolcano casts an imposing shadow over the surrounding forests and countryside. By ascending to its summit through a picturesque ropeway, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the park and the shimmering waters of Lake Toya, nestled within a caldera adjacent to the volcano.
Moreover, the park offers the remarkable lava dome of Showa-shinzan, as well as rejuvenating hot springs and numerous craters that were formed during Mount Usu’s most recent eruption in 2000.
Mount Norikura
Mount Norikura, the third highest volcano in Japan, stands at an impressive elevation of 3,025 meters. Situated in Chubu-Sangaku National Park, within the Hida Mountains, this snow-capped stratovolcano offers breathtaking landscapes with its picturesque valleys, ravines, and rivers. As you explore its slopes, you’ll stumble upon hidden crater lakes and alpine meadows, while closer to the summit, you’ll encounter hardened lava flows. Its name, derived from the Japanese term for “riding saddle,” reflects the mountain’s long ridge and plateau. With its majestic scenery and stunning vistas, Mount Norikura is a beloved destination for hikers and climbers alike.
Mount Yake is one of the 12 Most Beautiful Volcanoes in Japan
Located in the mountainous Nagano Prefecture in the heart of Japan, Mount Yake stands as one of the most active volcanoes in the Hida Mountains. Consequently, its slopes are adorned with numerous solidified lava fields, while a fumarole near its summit continues to release steam and gas. With its two majestic peaks overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Taisho, Mount Yake presents a breathtaking spectacle, further enhanced by a charming little crater lake nestled between the peaks. Rising to a height of 2,455 meters at its summit, Mount Yake rightfully earns its place among the esteemed 100 Famous Japanese Mountains, a compilation of the country’s most revered peaks.
