About Mikurajima
Mikurajima is a stratovolcano rising to 851 meters (2,792 feet) in Japan's Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. The volcano is currently active, with its most recent eruption in 4100 BCE. The volcano has produced 2 recorded eruptions.
Geography & Climate
Mikurajima is located in Japan, within the Izu Volcanic Arc of the broader Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 33.87° N, 139.60° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a subtropical climate zone. With a summit elevation of 851 meters above sea level, Mikurajima is a moderately sized peak that remains accessible to hikers and researchers for much of the year. The volcanic landform is characterized as a composite, which describes the physical shape and structure of the volcanic edifice as observed from the surface.
Geological Context
Mikurajima sits in a subduction zone, where one tectonic plate dives beneath another, creating intense heat and pressure that generates magma. Subduction zones are responsible for many of the world's most explosive volcanoes and deadliest eruptions. For communities in Japan near Mikurajima, this tectonic setting means the volcano is capable of producing powerful explosive eruptions, pyroclastic flows, and lahars that can threaten populated areas within tens of kilometers of the summit. The dominant rock type is basalt / picro-basalt, a dark, fine-grained volcanic rock that forms from rapidly cooling, low-viscosity lava. Basaltic eruptions tend to be less explosive and produce fluid lava flows that can travel long distances. While less immediately dangerous than explosive eruptions, basaltic lava flows can destroy structures and infrastructure in their path, and volcanic gases released during these eruptions can affect air quality over a wide area.
Eruption History Summary
Mikurajima has 2 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 5050 BCE to 4100 BCE. These eruptions span roughly 950 years of volcanic history.
GVP Reference Summary
Mikurajima is a small steep-sided island located between the more well-known Miyakejima and Hachijojima volcanoes. Oyama forms the summit of the basaltic-to-andesitic island, which is surrounded by cliffs and dissected on the southern-to-eastern sides. The sparsely populated island consists of a large stratovolcano with lava domes on the SE side. Several small sea stacks are located immediately offshore. Growth of the stratovolcano took place until about 7,000 years ago, and the latest activity occurred about 6,000 years ago, when explosive eruptions and pyroclastic surges accompanied lava dome growth.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
2 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4100 BCE | — | Confirmed Eruption | Tsubunegamori & Yasukajigamori domes |
| 5050 BCE | — | Confirmed Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Mikurajima
Is Mikurajima an active volcano?+
Mikurajima is not currently classified as active. Its activity evidence is listed as "Eruption Dated." The last known eruption was in 4100 BCE. However, no volcano is ever considered permanently extinct.
When did Mikurajima last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Mikurajima occurred in 4100 BCE. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Mikurajima has 2 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Mikurajima?+
Mikurajima has a summit elevation of 851 meters (2,792 feet) above sea level. At 851 meters, it is a relatively low-elevation volcano.
What type of volcano is Mikurajima?+
Mikurajima is classified as a Stratovolcano. Stratovolcanoes (also called composite volcanoes) are steep, conical volcanoes built up by many layers of hardened lava, tephra, and volcanic ash. They are among the most common and dangerous types, known for explosive eruptions.
Where is Mikurajima located?+
Mikurajima is located in Japan, in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Izu Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 33.874° latitude, 139.602° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Mikurajima?+
Mikurajima can generally be visited, but as with any volcano, visitors should check local conditions and any advisory notices before traveling. Japan may have specific regulations for accessing volcanic areas. Guided tours are often the safest and most informative way to experience a volcano.
