The Japanese Meteorological Agency has issued a Level 2 Volcano Alert for the Owakudani area of Hakone, prompting an evacuation of that area and a suspension of the Hakone Ropeway, which is one of the most popular tourist routes in the area. Be prepared for potential detours if you are planning to visit Hakone in the coming days/weeks, and consult local transit operators or local media for more information. Of course, if I have more news to share, I’ll do so!