The Yakehashiri Lava Flow and the Power of Nature
Yaridori Lava Flow is a spectacular natural formation formed in 1732 by the volcanic activity of Mt. Lava erupted from several fissures on the northeastern slope of Mt. Iwate between 920 and 1200 meters above sea level and flowed down for approximately 3 kilometers. The widest part of this lava flow is 1 kilometer wide. Around the tourist trail, the lava is 5 to 10 meters thick, allowing visitors to feel the power of the lava flow at the time of the eruption. Today, a walking trail has been developed, making it a sightseeing spot where visitors can experience the power and beauty of nature up close and personal. We invite you to walk on the land of the historic Yadorikiri lava flow and experience its scale for yourself.
Rocks found in the vicinity of the Yeridori lava flow range in size from the size of a fist to about one meter in diameter. These rocks are composed of pyroxene andesite with olivine, and the weight and surface texture of each rock shows diversity due to different weathering patterns over the years. The area is also subject to extreme temperature fluctuations, with lava surface temperatures reaching up to 40°C in the summer, and conversely dropping to -20°C in the winter. These harsh weather conditions create a unique natural environment. Visitors are advised to dress appropriately and comfortably for the season.
While lava flows themselves are relatively uncommon in Japan, the Yariguri lava flow stands out in the following ways
- The exact date of the eruption must be known.
It has been identified as a 1732 eruption and is a valuable historical record. - No significant changes in topography should be observed.
Even after about 300 years, the shape of the lava flow at that time is almost intact. - Little to no vegetation is to be found.
Even today, only mosses, lichens, and a few angiosperms grow on the lava, testifying to the harsh environment.
For these reasons, burnt lava flows are extremely valuable sites for studying natural succession and are interesting research subjects for scientists.
