A driving course that takes you through fields of Japanese pampas grass to the volcanoes of Kuju

Drive through the scenic Handa Plateau along roads lined with swaying fields of Japanese pampas grass. Along the way, you'll see active volcanoes and steaming geothermal power plants.

From the Chojabaru Visitor Center, drive down the Sensui Green Road. Mount Waita (1,500 m) comes into view as you follow this road. This peak is also known as Oguni Fuji because it has a conical shape resembling Mount Fuji. Continue through the hot spring resort of Sujiyu Onsen and you'll arrive at Komatsujigoku, which translates as "the hell of Komatsu." Park your vehicle and take the path for about 20 minutes to Komatsujigoku, a place filled with volcanic steam and bubbling mud pools.

Return to the parking lot and travel a little further to the Hatchobaru geothermal power plant—Japan's most powerful geothermal facility—and watch huge clouds of steam being released into the sky.