Geotourism Observational Investigation From the Tourist Perspective: A Case Study of Kyushu Area Volcanoes, Japan

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Background of Japan's Geology
Japan is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire which is home to 452 volcanoes, and it has 75% of the world's active and dormant volcanoes. Given its position atop the huge North American, Pacific, Eurasian and Philippine plates, Japan has always been prone to geological forces. This tectonic activity has created explosive volcanoes, some of which continue to send forth plumes, and occasional booms. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency there are 111 active volcanoes in Japan (JMA, 2016), so it is an interesting part of the world in terms of both age-old volcanic landscapes and present-day eruptive episodes. Dormant since 1707, Japan's Mt.Fuji is a sacred mountain climbed by thousands each year. One legend has it that the volcano was born from the unfinished dream of a giant who wanted to fill the Pacific Ocean (KECIA, 2021).
The Japanese Geoparks Network (JGN) website describes a geopark as: -[a] unified geographical area where sites and landscapes of geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development‖ (JGN, 2023). The geosites researched for this paper are all on Kyushu which is the most southerly, and third-largest, island that makes up the Japanese mainland.
While the neighbouring prefectures of Saga, Fukuoka and Miyazaki are also rich in natural beauty, and contain other popular geographical destinations, the geosites chosen for this study are situated directly on the Futagawa-Hinagu fault lines, which have contributed to complex lithology and unique geological landscapes (Aso UGGP, 2012). The activity of Quaternary volcanoes spans a period of about 2.5 million years ago to the present day, so it includes active volcanoes. A million years is a megaannum, abbreviated to Ma.

Kyushu Geosite Locations Overview
In the interest of assessing and creating accessible Geotourism itineraries for visitors to Kyushu seeking out geological attractions and destinations, the scope of this study includes peaks at geosites in the following locations: Unzen Volcanic Area UNESCO Global Geopark in Nagasaki; the locality of Makinoto Pass, Aso-Kuju National Park in Oita; Aso UNESCO Global Geopark in Kumamoto, and; Sakurajima-Kinkowan Geopark in Kagoshima.
The Futagawa fault line runs east-west through Kyushu and includes Mt. Unzen (Nagasaki), Mt. Kinpo (Kumamoto), Mt. Aso (Kumamoto), Mt. Kuju (Oita), Mt. Kokonoe (Oita) and Mt. Tsurumi (Oita). Mt. Kirishima, Mt. Sakurajima and Mt. Kaimon are in Kagoshima, and are all situated along the Hinagu fault line which runs north-south through Kyushu. Of Japan's nine UNESCO Global Geoparks, two feature in this research: Aso UGGP and Unzen Volcanic Area UGGP, in Kumamoto and Nagasaki respectively. Of the 37 Japanese National Geoparks, Sakurajima-Kinkowan Geopark in Kagoshima was also chosen for this study.
3.1.1 Site 1. Mount Fugen. Location: Mount Unzen, Unzen, Shimabara Peninsula, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. Classification: UNESCO Global Geopark. Mt. Unzen Activity Period: From 0.5 Ma. Latest eruption: AD 1996. Unzen and its surrounding area was designated as the first national park in Japan in 1934 and its highest peak, the inaccessible Heisei Shinzan, is 1,483 metres high. Mt. Fugen (1,359m) is the second highest peak. The Unzen area was designated as a Global Geopark Network member in 2009, and a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2015.
3.1.2 Site 2. Mount Kuju. Location: Oita Prefecture, Japan. Classification: No geopark classification. Activity Period: From 0.2 Ma. Latest eruption: AD 1996. The second location chosen for this study is Mt.Kuju, situated in the Aso-Kuju National Park, Oita. While not located in a Geopark it is part of the Kuju Mountain Range and Mt.Kuju itself is the second highest peak in Kyushu at 1,786m, so it is both a geologically rich and popular hiking destination. Its neighbouring active crater, Mount Io can be seen to its Northeast.
3.1.3 Site 3. Mount Eboshi. Location: Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. Activity Period: From 0.09 Ma. Latest eruption: AD 2020. Eboshi Peak stands next to the Mount Aso crater, which remains active. The peak itself is approximately 238m, and while it is not a long hike, the mountain affords very good views of the active Aso, and is part of the Aso UGGP.
3.1.4 Site 4. Sakurajima. Location: Sakurajima, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. Activity Period: From 22,000 yBP Latest eruption: 2023 (ongoing). After a 5-year dormancy since April 2018, Sakurajima has been displaying regular eruptions at the Showa Crater. Sakurajima is not a UNESCO Geopark, but is a Japanese National Geopark, and as such, has a poignant relationship with the people of Kagoshima Prefecture. Height: 1,117m. While it is not possible to hike to the crater, one can experience tremendous views from nearby viewpoints and the Yogan Nagisa Trail.

Method
The authors conducted observational research at the four locations mentioned above. The dates of observation were: 12 February, 23 February, 22 March, and 9 April, 2023. The method of research was to hike at the site as a tourist normally would, and approach the volcanic crater as closely as possible. The authors took notes during the trip according to the observation checklist (see Appendix). All pertinent elements were noted, photographs of each area were taken, and discussion was conducted following each excursion. A detailed analysis can be found in the results section. The chosen research methodology of Grounded Theory lends itself well to an observational investigation from a tourist's perspective as it puts forth that: the most obvious is usually the most important. Therefore, by highlighting the usual features and expectations of tourist travel and exploration, and assigning them to volcanic areas so as to examine Geotourism, we can better analyse the data collected to explore relationships between the geosites researched.
Tourists are consciously, and, to some extent, unconsciously concerned with directions, ease of movement, knowledge gained and services available. Thus, the ten main items chosen for the 5-point adequacy scale fall under four main themes, namely: Signage (All, English, Size); Access (By road, To trail); Amenities (Shops, Vending Machines, Benches); and, Information (All, English). As for Signage & Information, phone apps and incar navigation systems can guide us almost anywhere, but, while on the ground exploring or hiking, discerning our surroundings by using various trail signs, flags or markers is an integral part of self-guided tourism as well as fostering an appreciation for our surroundings. Directions are traditionally indicated through signage, such as signposts, billboards and natural or man-made landmarks. Of late, traffic information LED displays can give up to date information, as well.
Similarly pamphlets, information boards and maps, both promotional and fixed, including navigational, pictorial and locator maps, contribute to ease of movement and educational needs fulfilling both directional and informational functions. In a geotourism setting, especially around active volcanoes or challenging landscapes, additional signage and boundary markers are needed to alert and inform the tourist by using precautionary symbols or instructive text. Furthermore, signage indicating conservation and preservation activities, in line with sustainability efforts, are highly valued, and even expected, by geotourists.

Findings and Observations
This section explains the geoparks that were observed and sets out the findings in the following fashion: first, the background of each area is given; next, the route is explained, followed by trail observations, geological observations, and a brief summary. In 1991 an eruption killed 43 people when they were engulfed in a pyroclastic flow. Pyroclastic flows in 1990 and 1995 formed Japan's newest volcano, Mt. Heisei Shinzan (1,483m) which is off-limits. Despite relatively recent natural disasters, the Unzen hiking route is a popular one taking in three peaks. (Unzen Volcanic Area UGGP, 2021)

Trail Observations
Visitors to Mt.Unzen's peaks access Nita-Toge Pass via a one-way road, costing 100 yen. It is possible to hike from Unzen City; it commences as a roadside walk and turns into a hilly scramble. Nita-Toge Pass car park is quite large, but has only toilets and a gift shop.
The trailheads are behind the Nita-Toge Pass Observatory and the route is a loop which can be approached from either end at this point, although it is usual to take the left trail which commences with the ascent of Mt. Myoken (1,333m). The Unzen Ropeway goes up to Mt. Myoken Observatory, with views of surrounding mountains and the Ariake Sea. From this upper ropeway station Mt. Myoken's peak is a quick walk away, though if hiking from the trailhead it takes about 30 minutes to climb. The trail gets progressively more difficult with branches, overgrowth, mud and steep valley ascents. A detour to Mt. Kunimi (1,347m) adds approximately 40 minutes and involves scaling boulders with chains. Benches at Kunimi-Wakare and Momiji-Jaya junctions provide seating, but there is no toilet after the ropeway station. Summiting Mt. Fugen involves some cragginess underfoot, and large boulders, but is well-marked and straightforward. As other groups descend you have to stand aside at times. From atop Mt. Fugen, on a clear day you can spot the neighbouring, smoking summit of Mt. Heisei Shinzan (1,483m). Mt. Fugen's summit has some tufts of grass and boulders to settle into for a rest, but it is otherwise exposed. An additional loop past the North and West Kaza-Ana Lava Caves is partially accessible, but the Tateiwa-no-Mine Peaks portion was flagged as being precarious, with loose and falling rock warnings posted. Mt. Fugen's descent is straightforward with Azami-dani Valley on the last straight, and then footpaths, before reaching the Nita-Toge Pass observatory beside the car park.

Geological Observations
Despite fog, the gift store exhibits and information boards en route (Figure 2), the views from the lower lookouts, the diverse terrain, and evidence of conservation efforts (Figures 3 & 4) all contribute to the landscape's appealing nature, and a satisfactory day-hike. On past excursions, fumaroles near the summit and Mt. Heisei Shinzan's fumes were visible. At Unzen Hells at the foot of Mt. Unzen, the barren rocks, tinged pale yellow from the sulphuric steam, or red, green and grey from other impurities, certainly create an inferno-esque scene. We visited Gensei Marsh and got close to Oshidori Pond, too, to see its lively effervescence. Due to the naturallyheated hot water from underground geothermal springs the area has many onsens, too.

Summary
The route is challenging in parts and takes you off the main trail to summit Mt. Myoken and Mt. Kunimi. Good balance when encountering stacked boulders, and attention to footing on high, uneven surfaces, is required. Exposure, loose rock and steep inclines are expected, too. Overall the trail is clearly-marked, and, as it is a popular hiking route, expect to meet others. Unzen City, its Hells and other places of interest make this an enjoyable, varied outing with a decent mix of exertion, entertainment and education.

Site 2: Mount Kuju
Mt. Kuju is located in the Kuju Mountain Range, in Taketa

Trail Observations
Our observations started at the Makinoto Pass Trailhead where facilities are basic, with toilets and a gift shop, with a hatch serving refreshments. Parking is ample and bus stop signs indicate access via public transport. The initial climb up concrete steps, past trees, opens up to a lookout. After conquering more concrete, grassier heights emerge with old, wooden steps leading up tree-covered Mt. Kutsukake (1,503m). The trail soon turns into a rocky, often muddy, ridgeline with ladders. Some boulders need to be traversed here, too. The ridgeline is often tight due to growth or larger rocks, but is otherwise amply wide. Progressively rocky parts follow upon approaching the ridge between Mt. Ougi-ga-hana (1,698m) on the right and Mt. Hossho (1,762m) on the left.
Opting left, we took the next fork right, down the low-road avoiding Mt. Hossho, through Nishi-senrigahama plateau, towards Mt.Kuju. Crossing the plateau, Mt.Kuju comes into view ( Figure 5). After a markedly rocky, sulphur-stained patch you descend under craggy Mt. Hossho ( Figure 6). Finally, approximately 2 hours after setting off, the only rest hut and toilet stop appear, at the base of Mt.Kuju. In summer, a donation is typical. But in winter the only option requires your own toilet bag. The Mt.Kuju ascent is steep and rocky, but quite well defined with a permanent rope and deliberate yellow markings. The summit is exposed, but affords great views of the Takeda region and surrounding peaks. We also ventured to Lake Oike crater lake, below Mt.Tengu-gajo. It was still partially frozen at the time of our observation trip (Figure 7), but is usually an unusual turquoise.
Retracing the ridge to the rest hut, we took in views of Chojabaru and Kokonoe approaches, and Mt. Io's smoky vent. In the valley you see the Bogatsuru Marsh, and further afield, is the Tadewara Marsh.
Makinoto Pass Trailhead is 5.3km from the Chojabaru Visitor Center. We visited it and walked the marsh's elevated, cedar boardwalk. It is wheelchair accessible, has both long and short courses and is designed to protect the rare ecosystem. (Chojabaru Visitor Center Website, 2023). A hot dip in the foot bath by the centre concluded the day. Visitors hoping to stay in the area have a limited choice of accommodation, and the immediate village area has seen better days, with few amenities.

Geological Observations
Mt. Kuju is an active volcano and although we could not see the actual opening of Mt. Io's crater (1,580m) we observed it smoking steadily, with thin plumes, and the vent area had telltale, sulphuric-yellow tinges. At the fork for Ougi-ga-hana distinct layers of sedimentary rock and soil are visible. Underneath the snow and hardy winter growth, in this segment the colour of the soil stratum varied from dark, almost black, to lighter shades of brown. Animal prints, needle ice columns and hoarfrost also were noted.

Summary
Overall the trail is adequately marked and is not difficult or dangerous if you are sure footed and prepared. However, the vertical kilometre of incline up Mt. Kuju may prove difficult for some, and the distance and time required mean it is a demanding hike. An ‗in-and-out' hike from Makinoto Pass to Mt. Kuju usually takes 6 hours or more, covering about 11km. Some guidebooks recommend 8 hours, although experienced hikers often take half that time. We saw hikers in full gear, with poles and crampons. We also encountered some with just a duffle coat and backpack. Although the diverse terrain adds to the enjoyment, the remote nature of this trail deems it a serious one which should be adequately prepared for.

Site 3: Mount Eboshi
In 2014, the Aso region acquired UNESCO Global Geopark status. Daikanbo, and Futae-no-touge and Mt. Tawara Passes afford scenic views of landscapes formed by volcanic activities over the past 270,000 years, including the huge eruption that occurred 90,000 years ago forming the Aso Caldera. Aso Caldera covers an area of 380km² , with a circumference of more than 100 kms and it is the second largest caldera in Japan. The stable nature of the interior lends itself to transport infrastructures with rural communities in Aso City, Takamori Town and Minami Aso (Aso Volcano Museum, 2014. While there is no actual Mt. Aso, Aso is the entire area up to the caldera's outer rim (Aso UGGP, 2012 Mt. Eboshi's trail traces the crater rim around Kusasenri (1,140m elevation) and the actual peak is only 238m high. Traversing Kusasenri, we commenced a leisurely hike. Taking about two hours, it is a steady ramble more than a hike, though the terrain is varied and some erosion is visible warranting standard precautions. The west slope, on the Mt. Naka side, is more gradual and solid underfoot. Whereas the east approach inclines more rapidly and is muddy, yet it affords stunning views over Minami Aso and out towards the Ariake Sea.

Geological Observations
Standing on the periphery of Kusasenri, you can appreciate the magnificence of this formation and its strange topography. Kusasenri is a wide, grassy plain with ponds, which are crater lakes within a crater. The craters filled with ash from Mt. Naka eruptions, creating this plateau in front of Mt. Eboshi. The pond on the west is the floor of the outer, 1 km diameter crater, and the pond on the east is that of the 400m diameter inner crater which was formed when the dacitic lava dome was blown off. The ridge between them, Koma-tate-yama, is the remains of that lava dome (Aso UGGP, 2012). Cows and horses graze here in warmer months, while in winter it is silverand then scorched! In mid-February to the end of March, the controlled grassland burning ‗noyaki' takes place to prevent trees and shrubs from taking over. We walked over the charred, black earth. In clear weather Mt. Naka's smoky plumes are visible. From atop Mt. Eboshi you can catch extended views of the unique, ashen, moon-like landscape surrounding the active crater. Aso Volcano Museum (paid entry) has a live video stream from Mt. Naka's crater and projects it onto a scaled model (see Figure 8).

Summary
Being able to traverse this picturesque plain, nestled in a crater formed about 30,000 years ago, is somewhat surreal. The views of both Minami Aso and the smouldering Mt. Naka are striking. Kusasenri Observation Station (1100m) is also worth stopping at with its compelling command of Aso Caldera's western slopes, right down into Tateno Gorge, and, further still, Kumamoto City and Mt.Kimpo, and beyond to Mt.Unzen in Nagasaki across the Ariake Sea. Paid parking, food and souvenir options, as well as the educational Aso Volcano Museum and Mt. Aso Visitor Center, plus Field Tour guides available for bookings, make Kusasenri a point of convergence with bus tour groups and individuals flocking here. For longer or more serious hikes, other peaks can be explored to create a full-day excursion. Offering epic views and clear evidence of the region's culture, heritage and nature, this is a special place to visit.

Site 4: Mount Sakurajima
Sakurajima-Kinkowan Geopark is in Kagoshima Prefecture and is a 25-minute ferry from Kagoshima City across Kinko Bay. Here Sakurajima, one of Japan's most active volcanoes, displays its pep with smoky plumes or ashy splutters. Even so, the approximately 4000 inhabitants along the base, and about 600,000 in Kagoshima City, lead regular lives. Before an eruption in 1914, Sakurajima was an island. The lava flow from this huge eruption, during the Taisho Era, connected the former island to the Osumi Peninsula.
Kinko Bay was once a caldera. About 29,000 years ago a large eruption occurred and, after magma was ejected, the land in the centre sank creating the Aira Caldera. Seawater entered it creating the 200m-deep Kinko Bay. About 3,000 years later, eruptions formed the North Peak (Mt. Kita), and subsequently the South Peak (Mt. Minami). Therefore, while it looks like one mountain, Sakurajima consists of two volcanoes. Due to volcanic activity shifting south, it is from the South Peak that current day eruptions vent (Sakurajima-Kinkowan Geopark, 2023).

Trail Observations
The ferries from Kagoshima City to Sakurajima run frequently. Before crossing, visitors can go to Shiroyama Lookout, beside Shiroyama Hotel, to take in Sakurajima and the city below. Sakurajima Port and Visitor Center has an information desk, shop, cafe and rental bicycles. Cycling is a great way to explore further afield. However, since it is prohibited to climb Sakurajima, over six hours we combined the short, coastal trail with visits to geosites encircling Sakurajima. Yogan Nagisa Trail takes you on a leisurely three kilometre loop from the Sakurajima Visitor Center near the port. This rugged, blackened coastline was formed from Taisho Lava and flourishes with unique vegetation. Cyclists usually continue down the Super Magma Road, or return by the Sakurajima Lava Street to take in some more sights.
The Sakurajima Island View bus is popular among visitors, with eleven stops around the west and south-western parts of the island, where the majority of geosites are located. From the Yunohira Observatory, which is the highest observation point (373m) (2023) A notable ‗industry' connection is the use of shirasu, a white, pumiceous soil from pyroclastic flow deposits, unique to southern Kyuhsu. Turned into concrete block bases for growing grass below the tram tracks, these ‗shirasu greening bases' retain water, disperse heat and are pressure-resistant. Therefore, with 30,000 m2 of grass, along almost 9 km, this special technique helps combat the problem of the urban ‗heat island effect' which sees cities recording much higher temperatures than nearby rural areas (Sakurajima-Kinkowan Geopark, 2023). We also spotted these shirasu blocks at Sakurajima Port.

Summary
Despite no hiking, the ability to view Sakurajima from so many angles, at various sites and observatories, really gives a sense of the topography and history of the land, and shows how people naturally coexist with an active volcano and its small eruptions: students wearing helmets for protection; locals putting out yellow ‗Kokuhai Bukuro' volcanic ash trash bags; dips in one of Japan's longest foot baths, and; the enormous, round ‗Sakurajima Daikon' radish, all give tourists a taste of how incomparable, yet viable, life is here. Vibrant, engaging signage and promotional literature, offering various experiences, and valuable information, also show that this Geopark is well-established for Geotourism, despite not being a UGGP.
The following tables explain observational findings of the authors in terms of a typical five-point Likert scale: 5) highly agreeable; 4) somewhat agreeable; 3) neither agreeable nor disagreeable; 2) disagreeable; 1) highly disagreeable. The figures in the tables are all mean values of each item.  Geo Information 3.5 3 3.5 3 Source: Compiled from survey data, 2023.

Discussion
It is important to note that neither the individual nor the total ratings given on the 5-point scale should be viewed as being correlated to the overall enjoyment of the Geosites. However, when satisfaction is taken into account, one could examine the values related to signage, access, vending machines, language information (Table 2), and geo accessibility, level of interest, and overall geo information to find that these aspects are most likely satisfying to travellers. For example, although companionship was below the mean (2) for two sites it is only indicative of the prevalence of meeting other travellers on the days the research was conducted. While these two sites are remote, more serious hiking routes, they are still popular and are busy during the on-season. That said, it is important to note that the other two sites which both obtained 4 on the 5-point scale were observed as being visited by GITs (Group Inclusive Tours) alike during the same season.
As for access, the viability to reach each volcano can be interpreted in various ways. Access by road could consider the transport infrastructure in relation to the condition of roadways, route possibilities, or lack of, as well as the distance from major cities or public transport hubs. Similarly it could be construed as the viable modes of transport, and associated time and cost, tourists take to get to the site. For the purposes of this study we travelled by car to all sites, however, we did consider public transport options as they were utilised by other tourists we observed. Likewise, as our research focussed mainly on volcanic sites and hiking trails, the topography and associated activities regarding access to trail pertains to able-bodied adults. This included parking facilities at the site, distance from public transport options and the markings indicating the trailhead, and the terrain and condition of the pathways besides. While some were clearly marked and signposted, others were more instinctive.
The overall results indicated a generally satisfactory observation in relation to expected access, signage, information and amenities at the four geosites. The close range of mean item scores overall indicates that, despite the noted differences in the total outcome and some items, on the whole, each site was deemed to have adequate or more than adequate data presentation, facilities and transport infrastructures. As previously noted, two different scores for companionship clearly show differences between sites which would appeal more to FITs (Free Independent Travellers) compared to the sites which accommodate more GITs (Group Inclusive Tours).
Looking at the total findings associated with the two UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGPs), Mt. Eboshi and associated nearby geosites in Aso UGGP, geo accessibility was quite high with a mean of 4.5. In addition, Sakurajima-Kinkowan Geopark means for both geo accessibility and level of interest were both high at 4.5, while feasibility of tours was 5. Similarly Mt.Kuju which is not located in a Geopark, let alone a UNESCO Global Geopark, had a high result for geo accessibility at a value of 4. It should be noted that the two UGGPs in this research cover extremely vast areas, taking in numerous geosites and localities; Unzen Volcanic Area UGGP covers 459.52 km2 and Aso UGGP is more than double that at 1,198 km2. Therefore the trails and geosites visited for the purposes of this research represent only a portion of the whole UGGPs. Similarly, while the Kuju Mountain Range is about 200 km2, the fact that it was a serious, long hike contributed to the fact that the ground covered and geosites visited for this leg of the research accounted for only a fraction of the total area. Conversely, Sakurajima-Kinkowan Geopark is approximately 370 km2, but includes a huge body of water (Kinko Bay) over the submerged Aira Caldera and also contains a 2km radius restricted zone around the peaks. Accordingly, this smaller, more specific area of this unique ‗Sakurajima Island' lends itself to both half and full-day itineraries as it can be explored by a combination of, or any one of, the transport options: bicycle, bus and car -or even on foot. Having many geosites within walking distance, or a short drive away, and, additionally many situated along the main access routes, means that you can visit more sites and see more while not necessarily covering more ground.

Geotourism Related Observational Findings
For the purposes of this study, Geotourism Related Observational Findings were categorised into, and analysed under, five broad themes (Table 3). Undoubtedly each theme is open to various interpretations in line with the backgrounds, interests, knowledge and experiences of each author. Therefore, while conducting geosite observations, members wrote supplementary notes, took pictures and collected tourism pamphlets which helped to both clarify and challenge varying standpoints, so as to standardise the themes. It should be noted that the kind of tourist the researchers envisioned and remained focused on was an able-bodied, adventurous, adult, hiking enthusiast (not expert), or similar, seeking an enriching, fun, geosite experience. It does no harm to outline the mind-set adopted because humans are individuals, and shared physical abilities and personalities do not always signify shared interpretations, as our research found. While much discussion was had after each geosite visit to determine what approaches each member took when assigning results, all parties seemed to diverge considerably when looking at frequency of danger and geo information.
Those who gave higher points to frequency of danger regarded the environs of an active volcano, and the generally remote, uneven landscape, to be more dangerous. However, the danger element was not threatening and, in fact, added to the appeal of the area and fostered a greater awareness of the phenomena which transformed these areas. In contrast, low scores were given when viewed from the perspective of a tourist who, naturally, fully understands the risks associated with these geosites and therefore, does not dismiss the danger element of an active volcano nor let it have significant weight in considering such scores. Despite the researchers' shared approaches, geo accessibility was explored from different tourist perspectives, due to the individual interpretations of the researchers. Nevertheless, the researchers concurred with the assessments offered up, agreeing that geo accessibility was not about physical access and the trail difficulty, but about the variety and distinct features of each geosite, ranging from the types of volcanoes, the soil and rock lithology, and the landscape formations to the sounds of fumarole vents, the smell of sulphur, the eerie absence or delightful sightings of flora and fauna, echoing, overall, the peculiar affect the volcanic areas have on nature. Information presented in trail or observatory signage, and to a lesser extent pamphlets and on-site museums, eg. Aso Volcanic Museum, was also factored in. While still in awe of the formations, a more down-to-earth, less romanticised, sentiment seemed to prevail.
Explicating diverging viewpoints on the feasibility of tours brought up two lines of thought, namely indications of established tour infrastructures versus possibilities of tours. Regarding the remote location of Mt. Kuju and the urban-locale of Sakurajima, the points assigned were similar and, therefore, the perspectives converged. However, for Mt. Eboshi and Mt. Fugen views diverged greatly. Higher points for Mt. Eboshi were defended due to the car parking facilities for buses, as well as the Aso Volcano Museum and other amenities which indicate that tours are already operating. Nonetheless, lower points were also asserted due to the trail being short and easy, lending itself to self-guided excursions more so than tours. Similarly, Mt. Fugen attained high points for its transport infrastructure (road access, bus and train) and proximity to Nagasaki and Kumamoto cities, and even Unzen and Shimabara municipalities, as enabling tours. The lower end of the scale was backed by the possibility of bad weather making a long trip, and subsequent hike, disappointing. Furthermore, depending on the mode of transport taken, time-constraints for public transport options needed to be considered. Also the lack of amenities at the trailhead car parking was a possible deterrent for tours -albeit only concerning participants who didn't bring supplies and needed to buy them. Geo information also brought up varied responses and raised questions regarding i) what kind of information, as well the ii) placement, iii) frequency, iv) amount of information, v) languages available and vi) need for information. Regarding ‗what kind' of geo information, only on-site information was deemed suitable. The tendency for a QR code to be added to a Japanese-language info board or pamphlet in place of separate English-language or multi-language inclusions was also factored in. Nonetheless, the usage, or absence, of adequate, informative geo information was investigated through signage, info boards along the trails, and on pamphlets and at museums near the trails. Regarding geo information in foreign languages, English, Korean and both Traditional and Simplified Chinese were languages viewed most. English was the default for most signs, although some sign boards did include the others or QR codes for other options. The importance of multi-language options was noticeable at the Nita-Toge Pass Cable Car in Unzen which brings visitors up to an observatory along the Mt.Fugen route. Our trip that day was shrouded in fog and so the commentary, only in Japanese, was deemed inadequate for tourists. Even the Japanese locals were voicing how ineffectual it was as nobody could see anything. The theme which proved the most equivocal was level of interest. On one hand, from an individualistic perspective, the actual hike, or journeying throughout the day, and the excitement or satisfaction experienced greatly weighed in. While, on the other hand, a broader look at the various opportunities and options, and the cultural impact for a tourist, was also considered as another essential outlook.
Looking at the relationships among these themes from a tourist's perspective we noticed that expectation, excitement and satisfaction were recurring themes. It must be said that a sense of danger was also thought to appeal to visitors. The researchers decided that while the first two certainly exist, the purpose of this research is aligned with the overall satisfaction of the geosites visited, as echoed in the overarching question of our study.

Conclusion
Discussions, individual reflections and differing opinions were shared post-trip which helped develop the systematic and structured organisation of these themes, and subsequently the findings and the relevant analysis.
Although viewpoints varied greatly, discussing differences and similarities helped determine how better to organise observations from a tourist's perspective. Geotourism is still in its infancy, although more and more travellers are exploring the world's wonders as the tourism industry begins to open once again following the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this research, the authors were able to interpret the geo-experience as would-be adventure travellers. The differing interpretations among people sharing the same interests and study focus are inherently part of humankind's diversity. Such diversity among tourists would lend itself to further studies about the various types of geotourism.
Although this research was useful for the future of geotourism, limitations were evident. For example, the nature of geoparks makes approaching active volcanoes dangerous, and therefore, finding appropriate timeframes to visit was difficult. In addition, the lack of completed research into this arena limited the background data from which to draw.
In the future, both observations and questionnaires should be conducted with both tourists and tourism employees. This would not only bring the field of geotourism and geothermal activity to the global mind-set, but would create many opportunities for geotourism research long into the future.