The Nasu Mountain Range

The Nasu range formed through volcanic activity beginning 500,000 years ago. Mt. Chausu, the only currently active peak, acquired its present lava-dome summit from eruptions in 1408 to 1410, making its shape surprisingly recent. The volcanic zone below called Mugen Jigoku, meaning 'Infinite Hell,' produces sulfurous gases at around 90 degrees Celsius and supports no plant life. Over 150 hot springs in the Nasu area draw heat from the same magma beneath the mountain. The Nasu Ropeway ascends to 1,680 meters, from which a trail continues to the summit in roughly 50 minutes in good conditions.