4 must-visit volcanoes in Japan

Mount Asama

It’s one of Honshu’s most active volcanoes, erupting as recently as 2017.

When it blew its top in 2009, ash landed in Tokyo, 90 miles away.

Hiking and skiing are great reasons to visit – as is the onsen resort of Karuizawa at its foot.

Stay: HOSHINOYA Karuizawa, where you can take an onsen in the dark.

Mount Aso

If size impresses you, this is your kind of volcano.

Composed of five separate peaks, Mount Aso boasts one of the world’s largest caldera, with whole towns contained within its 75-mile circumference.

Head to the Daikanbo observation point to appreciate the enormity of the crater!

Stay: Hoshino Resorts KAI Aso, set within the beautiful Aso-Kuju National Park

Mount Bandai

Mount Bandai has the distinctive conical shape of many volcanoes – except much of its northern side was blown away in a major eruption in 1888.

With its lakeside setting, it’s a beauty spot all year round, with challenging hiking in summer and 29 ski runs in winter.

Stay: Hoshino Resorts Bandaisan Onsen Hotel, at the foot of the volcano.

Mount Fuji

No list of Japan’s active volcanoes would be complete without Fuji-san – even if its last eruption dates back to 1707.

Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan, an eternal muse for writers and artists, the site of numerous extreme exploits – and a must-do climb for keen hikers.

Stay: HOSHINOYA Fuji, where glamping offers a luxury outdoor experience.