6 - Japan: Fuji Yama

The symbol of The Land of the Rising Sun, Mount Fuji, situated about 65 miles south-west of Tokyo, is the highest point in Japan at just under 12,400ft. In clear weather one can admire its eternal clouds from the capital. This dormant volcano, whose last eruption was in 1707, is perfectly symmetrical in shape and is sacred to the Japanese. It is the site of numerous pilgrimages and the ascent, which was first undertaken in 663 by a monk, is nowadays attempted all year round. In summer it is wiser to climb at night so as to be able to enjoy the sun rise in somewhat cooler temperatures. The winter ascent, under extreme conditions, is strictly reserved for experienced mountaineers. In terms if landscape, the summit is devoid of any flora and is composed entirely of ash, while on the north side of the volcano are the five lakes Fujis, on which water sports bases and theme parks have been set up.

Tanzania: Kilimanjaro Hawaii: the island of multiple volcanoes