Japan is among the worldís most eruptive islands. 86 active volcanoes exist on or around this small, densely populated island. Because the island is so densely populated a large eruption from a volcano near a populated area can do sufficient damage to the people, economy, and agriculture of the area.

    Mount Usu, one of the many active volcanoes in Japan, erupted recently killing two people and destroying over 200 homes. The eruption spewed debris to hights of over 9000 feet. The volcano could have been much worse if the government had not stepped in and evacuated 11,000 people.

    Mount Fuji is the largest volcano in Japan. It is also the largest peak on the islands, reaching to hights of 12,338 feet. The giant mountain towers above the islands and is the backdrop for much of the ancient nation's legend and history. Mount Fuji can be seen from almost any point on the Island. Many thousands of tourists come to climb and see the mountain each summer. Japan and the people living there, as well as the island itself, have been shaped by these massive volcanoes.