Aogashima: The Enchanting Island Built Within an Active Volcano
A Dormant Threat: The History of Aogashima’s Volcano
Nestled amidst the vast expanse of the Philippine Sea, approximately 200 miles south of Tokyo, lies the captivating island of Aogashima. Its idyllic beauty, however, belies a hidden danger: an active volcano that has shaped the island’s history and the lives of its residents.
In 1785, a cataclysmic eruption tore through Aogashima, claiming the lives of half its population. The ground shook violently, and plumes of gas and debris spewed from the volcano’s depths. As the eruption intensified, the island’s 327 inhabitants were forced to flee, but only half удалось escape.
Despite the volcano’s deadly past, Aogashima’s residents remain undeterred. They know that the volcano could erupt again, but they are willing to take that risk for the island’s unique beauty and tranquility.
Life on the Edge: Embracing Nature’s Embrace
Masunabu Yoshida, a government worker who has called Aogashima home for the past 15 years, embodies the resilience of the island’s inhabitants. He acknowledges the potential danger but chooses to focus on the island’s extraordinary natural wonders.
Aogashima is a lush paradise, formed from the remnants of ancient calderas. Much of the village is nestled within the outer crater wall, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The island’s steep, rocky cliffs and azure waters provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fishing, hiking, camping, and swimming are popular pastimes, and the island’s unique geothermal energy provides natural hot springs and saunas. Visitors can even cook their food on the steam vents of the sauna, using the pots and pans provided for their convenience.
A Community United: Embracing Tradition and Innovation
Despite its small size, Aogashima boasts a thriving community. Farmers and fishermen work the land and sea, while a shochu distillery, a salt manufacturer, and various other businesses cater to the needs of the residents.
The island’s rugged terrain makes driving the preferred mode of transportation, and Aogashima’s roadways zigzag throughout the island’s center. However, the island’s isolation has also fostered a strong sense of community and self-reliance.
Contrasting Worlds: Aogashima vs. Tokyo
Yoshida frequently travels to Tokyo for work, but he always eagerly returns to the tranquility of his island home. The bustling metropolis, with its 13.4 million residents, overwhelms him, while Aogashima offers a sanctuary of peace and solitude.
“We can feel the beauty of nature here that you cannot experience in big cities,” Yoshida says. “There’s just too many people in Tokyo.”
A Quiet Vigil: Monitoring the Volcano’s Activity
The Japan Meteorological Agency closely monitors Aogashima’s volcano, issuing alerts as necessary. Since 2007, no volcanic warnings have been issued, and the island’s residents enjoy a peaceful existence, living in harmony with the slumbering giant beneath their feet.
Every new day on Aogashima is a testament to the resilience and optimism of its inhabitants. They embrace the risks associated with living on an active volcano, knowing that the island’s beauty and tranquility far outweigh the potential dangers.
Aogashima stands as a testament to the power of nature and the indomitable spirit of the human heart.