2025.04.10

Kamigamori Volcanic Island - Izu Oshima - (3) Mihara Shrine

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Mt. Mihara rises as a symbol of Izu Oshima. Its name is the very breath of the island. Oshima is located in a unique environment that is rare in the world, where the entire island is an active volcano, and Mt. Mihara, which sits in the center of the island, is truly a "living earth" where you can directly feel the energy of the earth. It is known for its vigorous activity of basaltic magma, and while repeatedly erupting every 35 years, it has carved a magnificent landscape and has been deeply rooted in the lives and beliefs of the islanders.

Article Contents

The pulse of magma, the breath of the gods, the story of the earth spun by Mt. Mihara
- History of Mt. Mihara and trajectory of volcanic activity

The pulse of magma, the breath of the gods, the story of the earth spun by Mt. Mihara

Since ancient times, the pillars of fire and fire images of Mt. Mihara have been revered and revered as "Sacred Fire-sama". The appearance of the plume of smoke and the spewing of flames has been interpreted as both the wrath and grace of God, and it has continued to have a special existence as a place for the hearts of the islanders and as an object of prayer. Since its eruption in 1986, it has remained tranquil to the present day, but it is only a brief respite. Underground, magma continues to be active, preparing for the next eruption.

History of Mt. Mihara and trajectory of volcanic activity

The majestic topography of Mt. Mihara has been shaped by repeated volcanic activity over a mind-boggling long period of time. Lava and volcanic ash ejected by the eruption were deposited, and the repeated uplift and erosion created the unique landscape we see today.

Near the summit is a caldera basin formed by volcanic activity. This caldera is a huge depression formed by the collapse of the summit due to a large eruption in the past, and its diameter is about 3.5 km. Within the caldera basin, a vast plain spreads out, and a ridge at an altitude of about 700 m surrounds it, forming the outer ring mountains. The shape looks like a huge stadium, and you can feel the dynamism of the earth on your skin.

In the center of the plain, the central crater cone, the inner ring mountain, rises, at the top of which there is a crater. At an altitude of about 758 meters, the Central Crater Cone is a great observation deck overlooking the entire caldera basin and a place where you can feel the energy of the earth up close. White plumes of smoke constantly rise from the crater, quietly telling us about the presence of magma that continues to be active underground.

Trekking in another world, Mt. Mihara

If you visit Oshima, you can't miss the trek of Mt. Mihara. The summit can be reached by bus or car, and there is an easy trekking course that takes about 45 minutes from the summit entrance. In addition, the "Bowl Tour Course" that goes around the crater is a popular course that offers a 360-degree view of the majestic appearance of Mt. Mihara.

This time, I chose the "Mountaintop Walking Path + Bowl Tour" course, which is recommended for beginners, and decided to experience the charm of Mt. Mihara. You can get to the summit by renting a car, and from there you can head to the summit.

When you step inside, it's like a different world. Something warm and warm is transmitted from the ground. As expected, you can feel the pulse of the earth on your skin. Since it started early in the morning, there were few people. In the silence, all you can hear is the chirping of birds and the sound of the wind.

As soon as I started walking, I saw a mass of lava that flowed out during the eruption. The dark rock surface is cold and inorganic, but it tells us that it was once a scorching magma. It is said that Oshima's lava flowed at a slower speed than a person walking. The lava that flowed out at a slow speed must have covered the earth like a living creature, changing the terrain. As I stared at the mass of lava, I imagined what the ancient earth would look like.

The promenade is carefully paved and has a gentle slope. Evacuation shelters have been set up in some places to prepare for any emergency. The course is designed with safety in mind, but don't let your guard down. It is important to remember that this is an active volcano and there is always danger.

Superb view of the sky, view from the top of the mountain

As you gain altitude, the scenery expands majestically. Nothing obstructs your view, and you can see the endless blue sea and sky. The air is also clear, and when you take a deep breath, you feel as if your entire body is cleansed. Is this really Tokyo? It is a quiet and peaceful time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The islands are surrounded by the sea, and you can see the majestic view of Mt. Fuji in the distance. It was November when I visited, but there was no wind, so I didn't feel cold at all, even at the top of the mountain. As I slowly looked at the scenery while basking in the sunshine, my heart seemed to be cleansed.

As soon as we arrived at the top of the mountain, the Mihara Shrine came into view. The approach is downhill. After passing through the torii gate and going down the stone steps, you will see a shrine that stands quietly.

The Miracle of God: The Mystery of Mihara Shrine

Mihara Shrine, whose date of creation is unknown, is a shrine outside the precincts of Omiya Shrine in Nomasu, in the western part of Oshima. It has a long history and has garnered a strong faith from the locals.

But its history isn't the only thing that makes Mihara Shrine so special. It is a miraculous phenomenon that the lava flow is flowing to avoid the Mihara Shrine.

In past eruptions, lava flows have swept into the immediate vicinity of Mihara Shrine. However, as if there was an invisible wall around the shrine, the lava flowed away from the shrine and solidified. As if protected by an invisible shelter, the shrine remained intact.

This miraculous phenomenon has been passed down as one of the Seven Wonders of Oshima and is revered by the locals as a "miracle of the gods". The sight of the lava flowing and solidifying around the shrine is truly a masterpiece. It can only be described as a divine work that transcends human knowledge.

There are numerous legends and anecdotes about the mystical power of Mihara Shrine. The area around the shrine is filled with a special energy, which is said to provide healing and peace to those who visit.

Godzilla incarnate, Godzilla Rock

After visiting Mihara Shrine, head to the crater loop road (bowl tour course). The distance is about 2.5 km and the course takes about 40 minutes. This road is not paved, so you need to be careful where you step.

The bowl tour course is a course that goes around the crater. There is nothing to obstruct your view, and you can feel the refreshing breeze while admiring the spectacular view. A number of Izu Islands float in the calm sea surrounding the island, and the beautiful scenery is like a painting.

In the middle of the bowl tour, there is a uniquely shaped lava rock called "Godzilla Rock". As the name suggests, the rock, which is shaped like Godzilla, is a popular spot for many tourists. A work of art created by nature shows various expressions depending on the angle from which it is viewed.

The roar of the earth and the crater

The biggest highlight of the bowl tour course is probably the crater. It is 200 meters deep and has a diameter of 300~400 meters. You will be overwhelmed by the depth of the Sunshine Building in Ikebukuro.

Inside the crater, the black rock surface is exposed, and there is no sign of life. However, steam rises from some places, indicating that magma continues to be active underground. The appearance of water heated by magma erupting is like the roar of the earth.

* No toxic volcanic gases have been observed at present. However, depending on the situation of volcanic activity, the concentration of gases may also increase. Caution is required.

While captivating you with the majestic scenery, you will be reminded that Japan is a volcanic archipelago and that the entire planet is in a large volcanic network. Izu Oshima is a special place among them.

Plate Crossroads, Earth's Energy

In recent years, it has become clear that the Pacific Plate, the Philippine Sea Plate, the Chinese Plate, and the North American Plate overlap in the vicinity of Izu Oshima. At the seam between the plates, the islands of Izu are located.

The surface of the earth is covered with several massive plates. These plates are always moving slowly, bumping into each other or diving. At the boundaries of the plates, earthquakes and volcanic activity are active.

Izu Oshima is located in a place where multiple plates are intricately intertwined, so volcanic activity is very active. Mt. Mihara can be said to be a place where the energy of the earth is condensed.

Memories of the Earth, Messages for the Future

Mt. Mihara has a lot to teach us. The dynamism of the earth, the forces of nature and the smallness of human beings. The scenery of Mt. Mihara shakes our hearts and awakens emotions that we have almost forgotten.

Mt. Mihara engraves the memories of past eruptions and speaks to us with a message for the future. We need to keep the teachings of Mt. Mihara in mind and coexist with nature and build a sustainable society.

Mt. Mihara, a place connected to the earth

Mt. Mihara on Oshima is more than just a tourist destination. It's a special place where you can feel the energy of the earth and experience the greatness of nature. Visiting Mt. Mihara will be a valuable experience of connecting with the earth and reconsidering yourself.

Please visit Mt. Mihara on Oshima at least once. It will surely change your outlook on life. The majestic scenery of Mt. Mihara will be deeply engraved in your heart and will be an unforgettable memory forever.

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