Mount Fure facts for kids

Mount Fure (フレ岳, Fure-dake) is a fascinating mountain located in the Nasu Volcanic Zone in Japan. You can find it in Chitose, a city on the large northern island of Hokkaidō. This mountain is special because it is the starting point, or "source," of the Shiribetsu River, which is an important river in the region.

What is Mount Fure?

Mount Fure, known as Fure-dake in Japanese, is a part of a chain of mountains and volcanoes. Mountains like Mount Fure are often formed over many thousands of years by powerful forces deep within the Earth. They can be tall peaks that stand out against the sky, offering amazing views and homes for many plants and animals.

Where is Mount Fure Located?

Mount Fure is found in a specific area of Japan called the Nasu Volcanic Zone. This zone is a long line of volcanoes that stretches across parts of Japan.

The Nasu Volcanic Zone

The Nasu Volcanic Zone is an active area where Earth's plates meet. When these giant plates move and push against each other, they can create volcanoes. These volcanoes can sometimes erupt, but they also create beautiful landscapes and hot springs. Mount Fure is one of the many peaks in this exciting volcanic region.

Hokkaido and Japan

Mount Fure is located on Hokkaidō, which is the second-largest island of Japan. Hokkaido is famous for its beautiful natural scenery, including vast forests, clear lakes, and, of course, many mountains. Japan itself is an island nation in East Asia, known for its unique culture, advanced technology, and stunning natural beauty, from snowy mountains to tropical beaches.

The Shiribetsu River

One of the most important features of Mount Fure is that it is the source of the Shiribetsu River. A river's source is where it begins, often from melting snow, rain, or underground springs on a mountain. The Shiribetsu River flows from Mount Fure, gathering water as it travels, and eventually reaches the sea. Rivers are vital for nature, providing water for plants and animals, and also for people, who use them for drinking water, farming, and sometimes even fun activities like rafting or fishing.

Exploring Mountains

Mountains like Mount Fure are incredible natural wonders. They are home to diverse wildlife, including different kinds of birds, mammals, and insects. They also support unique plant life that can survive in the cooler temperatures and rocky soil. For people, mountains offer opportunities for adventure, like hiking, climbing, and exploring nature. They also play a big role in the environment by influencing weather patterns and acting as natural water reservoirs.