Molten lava can reach temperatures of over 1000℃. As the lava surface comes into contact with air, it begins to cool and harden. From beneath this hardened outer crust, molten lava continues to flow, pushing the surface upward and causing its trademark arched shape and surface cracks to form, resembling a large 'yakimochi'. These lava formations are known as 'lava mounds' and can be readily seen throughout Mishima. Although many of these lava mounds have been lost due to quarrying, those found at the entrance to Shirataki Park are beautifully preserved, as they were once inside the protected grounds of a temple.

As basaltic lava flowed from Mt. Fuji and reached Mishima, the surface hardened while the molten lava inside edged slowly forward, creating this 'coiled rope' design. Known as pahoehoe in Hawaii, we generally see rope lava in this classic necklace shape. Look closely, and you will see the 'coils' swoop and turn due to changes in the topography as well as a result of lava mounds rising after the formation of the original rope lava and creating complex designs.

Beneath the solid surface of lava, two types of cave-like structures can be found. The first, known as a 'blister', forms as pressure builds from under the hardened crust pushing up a lava mound. As the molten lava drains away and the structure rehardens, it leaves an opening or blister. The second is a 'lava tunnel' that forms from the flow of molten lava beneath the hardened surface of a lava flow. In addition to the lava tunnels visible inside Rakujuen and several other areas in the city, there is a massive lava tunnel under the grassy area located just outside the north entrance to Mishima Station.

When molten lava flows over a tree, the surface of the lava cools while the tree is incinerated inside, leaving only a shell in the shape of the tree. Known as 'tree molds', you can see a horizontal-type tree mold located minutes from Mishima Station in the pint-sized Kagami Ike Park. At this site, we can also observe a phenomenon known as a 'spiracle'. These are chimney-like openings that form as steam escaping from the burning tree causes an explosion in the lava. From a geological perspective, spiracles are rare and incredibly valuable and in 2014, this park was designated as a Cultural Asset of the city.

Sengen Shrine, located minutes from the south exit of Mishima Station, is considered to be the Zero Station for climbing Mt. Fuji. From the end of the 17th century to the end of the 19th century, climbers came to this shrine to worship and for purification before starting their ascent. It is also the home to Konohanasakuya-hime, the mythological goddess of Mt. Fuji and all volcanoes, as well as delicate earthly life. According to legend, Konohanasakuya-hime stopped the flow of lava from Mt. Fuji at this point. As you enter Sengen Shrine, look to your right to see her footprint embedded in a lava mound. And as you look further you will see several other smaller 'baby' lava mounds and wonderful rope lava formations as well.

Much of the lava to the north of Mishima Station has been excavated to allow for the development of the city. As the lava is incredibly hard, it was necessary to use dynamite to aid in its removal. The vertical streaks in the lava above are the remnants of this process.

Over the course of thousands of years, soil accumulated atop Mishima's barren lava flows, enough to finally allow a seed to sprout. Today, tree roots hug the lava in a harmonious tribute to Mishima's relationship with its natural surroundings and to the power of nature.