It seems like volcanoes are waking up all around the world. From the Philippines’ Kanlaon volcano to the Costa Rican Poas volcano to Guatemala’s Volcano of Fire, geothermal activity is making itself known across the globe. And that’s without considering Iceland, the new volcanic capital of the world, and the plentiful eruptions it has experienced of late.
There’s a small island in Japan where the inhabitants live inside an active volcano, seemingly unperturbed by the potential danger. Considering the recent increase in seismic behavior in Japan, this could be an issue for some, but not for the residents of Aogashima, an active volcano in Japan.
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The Residents Of Aogashima, Japan, Live In An Active Volcano
Located at the southernmost point of the Izu Islands of Japan, north of the Philippine Sea, lies the island of Aogashima. It lies 222 miles south of Tokyo and is the most remote inhabited island in the Izu island chain. Interestingly, the island is on an active volcano, and around 170 people still call it home.
Despite not having had a major eruption since the late 18th century, the Japanese Meteorological Agency has still categorized the volcanic island as active. This is one of 110 active volcanoes in Japan, many of which are located on the tropical Pacific islands to the south of the main islands of Hokkaido and Honshu.
Many of the island’s inhabitants live inside the outer crater wall. This is away from the peak of the geothermal activity and danger at the central peak, but it also shelters the residents from the high winds and rains of the ocean. There’s just one store on the island, a couple of B&Bs, one post office, a free island campsite, and three bars.
The notorious Ring of Fire volcanoes are located in the Pacific Ocean.
When Was Aogashima’s Last Eruption?
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Aogashima Island, Japan
Aogashima last erupted in 1785, in one of the most catastrophic volcanic eruptions in the area. According to the stories, the ground started to experience tremors around May 18. From then on, the peak began to smoke and shoot debris around the island. However, just a few weeks later, on June 4, the 327 residents had to evacuate the island. Unfortunately, this was much too late, and only around half survived.
This has long stood in the memory of the island’s inhabitants. Although it was 230 years ago, many of those who fled and survived are ancestors of the current residents, and the danger is clear. Despite this, many residents take the approach that you can’t stop nature, and you might as well enjoy the natural beauty and relaxed rhythm of the island while you can.
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What Can You See And Do In Aogashima, Japan?
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Aogashima Island, located in the Tokyo Prefecture, is a small volcanic island in the Philippine Sea
As Aogashima is a very remote island in the Pacific, it doesn’t get a ton of tourism. Still, a few intrepid adventurers journey out to this beautiful island.
Stargaze
Being so remote, Aogashima is a perfect place to stargaze. With low levels of light pollution and uninterrupted night sky views, it’s ideal for seeing constellations and cosmic magic without a telescope. Both Canopus, the second-brightest star in the sky, and the Perseid meteor shower have been seen from the island.
Visit the Local Distillery
Despite the island’s small size, there’s still room for a local distillery. The Aogashima Brewery, also known as the Aogashima Shuzo, produces Aochu, a sweet potato shochu. This is a specialty of the island, is enjoyed locally, and is a popular souvenir. You can visit, take tours, and taste directly at the brewery.
Hike Mt. Maruyama
Technically speaking, the inside crater of the second cone of Aogashima is called Mount Maruyama. This beautiful high point of the island is a must-visit for hikers looking to enjoy spectacular views. Walking around the ridgeline takes around an hour, and there are very few people along the way.
Enjoy the Geothermal Waters
Of course, as this is a volcanic island, Aogashima has plenty of geothermal waters. One of the best places to visit is the Aogashima Fureai Sauna. This unique sauna is fed by volcanic energy, keeping it sustainable and warm, fueled by nature. These hot springs and saunas are popular, and you can also cook food on top of the sauna vents. The sauna owners provide pots and pans.
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How To Visit Aogashima Island, Japan
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The Aogashima Maru seen connecting Hachijojima and Aogashima
Visiting Aogashima can be tricky, as it’s so remote. The only access point for Aogashima is the larger neighboring island of Hachijojima. From here, it’s a two-and-a-half-hour boat ride or a 20-minute helicopter ride, but both are subject to weather conditions and reservations.
To get to Hachijojima, you can fly directly from Tokyo Haneda Airport. This takes 50 minutes each way, with three return flights each day. The cost can be from $70 one-way. Alternatively, you can board the ten-and-a-half-hour overnight ferry, and prices start from $140. However, it’s worth noting that you can’t take a car or pets with you.
So, if you want to explore an island where people live in an active volcano, head to Aogashima in Japan. Getting to this remote island will take some planning, but the beauty speaks for itself.
AloJapan.com