Kouhei Miyazaki, a guest illustrator from Japan, created the artwork for today’s Doodle, which honours Japan’s Mountain Day. Although the nation is a leader in technological innovation, it is also home to more than 100 volcanoes, hot springs, and thousands of acres of sublime mountains. Since the start of this holiday in 2016, many have taken this day off to explore Japan’s natural treasures.
In Japan, where mountains make up over 70% of the country’s total area, urban dwellers don’t have to drive very far to enjoy the great outdoors. The tallest mountain in Japan is located 60 miles from Tokyo. With a height of more than 12,000 feet, Mount Fuji is a stratovolcano, a steep, conical mountain formed by numerous layers of tephra and hardened lava.
One of Japan’s most active volcanoes, Mount Aso, can potentially appeal to thrill-seekers. Aso, which is in the south of the nation, is home to a magnificent crater with a diameter of 600 metres. When the volcano isn’t exploding, the crater’s lake of lime green steam slowly rises.
Those who would prefer to unwind in the great outdoors might take a bath at one of Japan’s well-known hot spring establishments (onsens), some of which are heated by underground volcanic activity.
Everyone in Japan had a happy Mountain Day! We hope that you feel at your best after spending time in nature.