International Joint Workshop on
Slow-to-Fast Earthquakes 2024

May 24, 2024

Pre-meeting Field Trip (September 16, 2024)

プレWS巡検(2024/9/16) 由布院周辺の断層と地形

Field Trip Overview

Prior to the plenary session, a one-day geomorphological and geothermal field trip will be conducted. Participants will have the opportunity to explore Yufuin, located in the central region of Oita on the northern part of Kyushu, renowned for its hot springs, or Onsen. The journey from the center of Beppu City to Yufuin takes approximately 1.5 hours by car.

In Yufuin, participants will observe 900 hot seepages that collectively discharge 38,600 liters of hot water per minute. These springs, primarily simple or alkaline simple springs with some sodium-chloride springs, are dispersed across a rift valley within the Beppu-Haneyama Fault zone. The fault zone extends over 90 kilometers, with its eastern end incorporating Beppu Bay. Significant seismic events in this area include the 1596 Keicho-Bungo Earthquake (Magnitude 7) and a Magnitude 5.7 aftershock following the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake (Magnitude 7.3).

Field Trip Highlights:

1.     At Jakoshi viewpoint, an overview of the geomorphological features surrounding the Yufuin basin will be provided.

2.     In the center of Yufuin, participants will have time to stroll and enjoy lunch.

3.     At the trailhead leading up to Mt. Yufu, a brief exploration will be offered.

Important Details:

·         Meeting Point: 8:00 AM, September 16th (Monday), at the bus terminal near JR Beppu Station

·         Conclusion: Participants will return to JR Beppu Station after 15:00.

·         Capacity: Maximum of 40 participants (selection may be necessary)

·         Participation Fee: Free or Max. 4,000 JPY (lunch not included)

·         Guides: Kazuki Sawayama and Yoshihiro Ito from Kyoto University

Itinerary:

·         8:00 AM: Meet at JR Beppu Station.

·         Stop 1: Jakoshi Viewpoint - Overview of geomorphology around the Yufuin basin.

·         Stop 2: Center of Yufuin hotspring town- Stroll and lunch.

·         Stop 3: Trail's starting point to Mt. Yufu for a brief exploration.

·         Approx. 15:00: Breakup at JR Beppu Station.