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Showa Shinzan volcano
The formation of a new volcano was kept top secret during World War Two.
Showa Shinzan is Japan's newest volcano. In 1944 the mountain suddenly erupted from a flat wheat plain causing earthquake shakes and squirting lava from the surface. In the space of a year the mountain grew to its current height of 398m and is still actively smoking sulphurous fumes today.
Considered an unlucky wartime omen, the volcano's existence was kept a secret from the Japanese public. Much of the information we now know about the volcano's formation comes from the local postmaster, Masao Mimatsu, who kept records of the mountain's growth during this period of secrecy.
Today the best way to view Showa Shinzan is from the nearby Mount Usu cable car.
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: 303 952 0379
A quick note about our experiences: Our experiences are designed to be part of a complete, tailor-made travel package and are not available to book individually. This allows us to ensure every detail – from accommodation to transport – is perfectly coordinated for you. If you're interested in one of these experiences, we'd love to help you build a full itinerary around it!
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