The Eruptions of Fugen Mountain
On November 17, 1990, Mount Fugen (Fugendake) began to erupt for the first time in 198 years. The volcanic activity culminated in a devastating pyroclastic flow on June 3, 1991, which resulted in a tragic loss of life, with 40 fatalities, 3 people missing, and 9 injured. A total of 179 houses were also damaged or destroyed. The volcanic activity persisted for approximately four and a half years, marking one of the most significant volcanic disasters in Japan’s recent history.
This tragedy is often cited as a man-made disaster exacerbated by media actions. Prior to the major eruption, members of the press had gathered in areas that offered the best vantage points for filming and photography—locations that had already been designated as mandatory evacuation zones. Despite the danger, they remained to capture footage. When the pyroclastic flow occurred, sixteen media personnel lost their lives. Tragically, firefighters and police officers who had entered the zone to urge them to evacuate were also caught in the flow and perished. This chain of events has led to the disaster being viewed not only as a natural catastrophe but also as a profoundly human failure.
Mt. Unzen Disaster Memorial Hall
The museum, named the Gamadasu Dome, is dedicated to documenting and educating visitors about the disaster. “Gamadasu” is a local dialect word meaning “to persevere” or “to endure,” reflecting the community’s spirit of resilience in the face of the eruption.
The museum primarily features exhibits on the 1991 eruption of Mt. Unzen, including disaster remains, documentary videos, photographs, and displays highlighting local recovery efforts. A key exhibit allows visitors to experience the immense speed of a pyroclastic flow: a path under the floor simulates the rapid movement using red light, illustrating how quickly these destructive currents travel.
English Official Homepage Welcome to Gamadasu dome – Volacno Exploratorium (udmh.or.jp)
Damaged Houses by Mudslide
It is next to Road Station “Mizunasi Honjin Fukae.”
Eleven damaged houses from the mudslide caused by the eruption of Unzen Fugendake are preserved and exhibited.
