Mount Yake, Active volcano in Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Mount Yake is an active volcano in Nagano Prefecture rising to 2,455 meters (8,054 feet) between Matsumoto and Takayama, with two separate peaks connected by a saddle. Sulfuric steam vents continuously from fissures along the flanks, leaving visible deposits on surrounding rock faces.
A major eruption in 1915 generated a debris flow that dammed the Azusa River and created Lake Taisho within hours. Smaller eruptions followed throughout the 20th century, keeping the summit area in constant flux.
The name Yake-dake means 'Burning Mountain' and refers to the ongoing volcanic activity visitors can observe from trails below. Sulfurous steam rises constantly from vents near both summits, coloring rocks yellow and orange around the discharge points.
The northern peak is reachable via marked trails that pass active steam vents, while the southern summit remains off-limits due to unstable ground. Hikers should carry gas masks and check daily hazard warnings before attempting the ascent.
Four construction workers died from volcanic gases in 1995 while building a tunnel on the Nagano side. This event led to stricter safety protocols for all projects near active volcanic zones across the country.
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