The jaws of hell.

Hiking across the lunar landscapes
of the volcanic island of Kyushu.

Sulphur, sludge and sleeping giants: it’s one step up from mountain hiking - volcano trekking on the island of Kyushu in southern Japan. Photographer Steve West and journalist Roland Hagenberg circle the slumbering giants Unzen, Aso and Sakurajima with a healthy respect. Nobody knows when they might awaken and start spewing fire. Vulcanologists show our reporters the devastating impact of earlier eruptions. After casting a cautious glance into the mouth of the volcano, they soak their tired feet in healing sulphur springs.

Direction and camera: Roland Hagenberg. Narrator: Colleen Gordon. Collaborators: Naruo Tada and Charles Glover. Music: Charles Teo, Ahrin Mishan and Roland Hagenberg.