Takachiho Gorge was formed from the lava of Mt. Aso ( the largest active volcano in Japan) which over time was eroded by the Gokase-gawa River. The result of which is a beautiful gorge with aquamarine water surrounded by volcanic basalt columns. At the gorge you can rent a boat and row past these high walls of volcanic rock. Being there certainly leads you to contemplate the natural events that occurred to form this site of exceptional natural beauty in Kyushu.