A LARGE CRATER. 
345 
these are the largest which are recorded by Scrope, it would 
seem that Asosan, considering its size and its activity, is without 
a rival. If we go further, leave the earth and compare Asosan 
with craters which we find upon our satellite the Moon, although 
it cannot stand before a pit like that exhibited by Copernicus, 
which is said to have a diameter of fifty-six miles, it neverthe- 
less may be regarded as an example of healthy competition. 
As an active volcano, however, it still holds its place ; and 
if America boasts of the largest waterfall, and India of the 
highest mountains, in one of the most prominent classes of 
natural phenomena Japan, also, will be able to take an equally 
prominent position. Further explorations may perhaps lead 
to the discovery of craters which will excel Asosan ; but so 
far as present knowledge is concerned, amongst the active 
craters in the world, as yet Asosan appears to be pre-eminent. 
And now not only may the Japanese boast of possessing 
one of the most beautiful of volcanoes, which mountain is the 
far-famed Fuji, but they may boast of one of the most remark- 
able of craters. 
