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Tag: volcanoes

  • Visit Jeju-do, South Korea’s Island Paradise

    Arriving at the South Korean island of Jeju-do, tourists could be forgiven for thinking they’ve stepped onto another country entirely.


    The palm trees and volcanic landscape remind visitors of being in Hawaii. The sandy beaches look as if they belong in a Mediterranean travel brochure, while the festivals and circus shows are as close to Disneyland as you’ll find in these parts.

    While most international travelers explore energetic Seoul, historic Gyeongju, and the seaside port of Busan, the Koreans themselves head to Jeju-do when they’re looking for a little rest and relaxation.

    The island delivers, with a dozen beaches and lush golfing greens. If you’d prefer a little more activity, make sure you hike around Jeju-do’s famous volcanoes. Hallasan is the highest summit in all of South Korea, standing 1950 meters tall. Ilchulbong in the east is a stunning volcanic crater, while the island of Udo off the coast has incredible black lava cliffs. Scuba diving is also popular, with the area boasting colorful coral reefs and the warmest sea in Korea. The waters around Munseom Island off Seogwipo are considered one of Asia’s best diving destinations.

    south korea travel mapThe action heats up in summer, with sporting contests, outdoor concerts, and movies held on the beaches throughout the warmer months.

    Your stay in Jeju-do is set to be a luxurious one, with the island boasting world class resorts and motels including The Shilla Jeju and Lotte Hotel. If you’d prefer to save your cash consider a bunking down in a private home, known as a minbak. This is the Korean equivalent of a bed and breakfast, with its homely feel and welcoming hosts. Gomangnandol and Bluesung Minbak are popular choices amongst budget travelers. Alternatively you can camp on many local beaches, including Geumneung Beach and Jungmun Beach, for less than $20US.

  • Volcanic Wonder at Mount Aso, Japan

    Japan has a reputation as the world’s technological center. But many tourists to the Asian nation are just as impressed with the country’s natural wonders. One of the most magnificent is the caldera of Mount Aso.

    Caldera of Mount Aso
    The caldera of Mount Aso at Kyshu, Japan

    You’ll find this active volcano at the heart of the island of Kyushu. Its caldera is one of the largest in the world, measuring 25 kilometers across. In fact, the caldera contains the town of Aso and several more volcanic peaks. These include Nakadake, an awe-inspiring active crater. Tourists are warned that the crater’s gases can be intense, so people with respiratory complaints including asthma shouldn’t visit. At some times the crater may be closed to the public altogether due to these poisonous fumes.

    But that shouldn’t discourage tourists, as there is plenty more to see. The grassy plains of Kusasenri-ga-hama are not far from Nakadake.


    You can enjoy this rural setting on horseback, with riding tours running from early March to mid December. Kusasenri-ga-hama is also home to the Aso Volcano Museum which details the area’s history.

    Komezuka is a small volcanic cone on the northern side of Nakadake. There are easy walking trails, although none take you right to the summit’s apex. Most visitors will be happy with the views they get from the top of the paths though.

    The Nakadake Crater is a 30 to 40 minute bus ride from JR Aso train station. Buses run regularly every, with one leaving every one or two hours. The buses travel to Asosan Nishi Station, where travelers can connect with a ropeway for a short ride. If you’d rather stretch your legs, it takes 30 minutes to walk from the station to the crater. The crater is also accessible by car, although drivers will need to pay a toll as they near Nakadake. A parking lot is located conveniently beside the site.