Sakurajima, located in Kagoshima Bay in Kagoshima Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. It has been erupting continuously since 1955, with minor eruptions occurring every two to three days as of 2025. Most eruptions release volcanic ash high into the sky, though some have also produced lava flows. Once an island, repeated eruptions gradually filled in the channel separating it from Kyushu, transforming Sakurajima into a peninsula that is now accessible by road.

Sakurajima has three main mountain peaks. The largest, Kita-dake, is 1117 meters tall. Naka-dake is 1060 meters tall, and Minami-dake, at 1040 meters. At present, the majority of the volcanic activity is coming from the Showa crater on Minami-dake. There are many viewing areas from which you can view each of the peaks. However, in the best interest of safety, there is a 2km perimeter exclusion area near the craters where it is prohibited to approach. Sakurajima is a volcano, and eruptions can and do happen at any time.

Sakurajima is a major tourist attraction in Kagoshima. From Kagoshima city, you can take the Sakurajima Ferry out to Sakurajima and explore what this volcanic landscape has to offer. On the island, take sighseeing buses, rental bikes, and city buses to explore the island. Renting a car and driving to Sakurajima is also a popular way to get around.

Explore Kagoshima

Top Attractions

Shiroyama Park

Hilltop Park with a famous view of Sakurajima

Sakurajima Ferry

Scenic Ferry between Kagoshima city and Sakurajima

Sakurajima Volcanic Shore Park and Footbath

Sakurajima Volcanic Shore Park & Footbath

Small park on Sakurajima, offering up stunning views and free footbaths

Sakurajima

One of Japan's most active volcanoes

Sengan-en

Traditional Japanese Garden, former residence of a feudal lord, and cultural experiences

Top Attractions on Sakurajima

Nagisa Lava Trail

A scenic 3km walking trail along the shore, through a lava zone which was formed during a significant eruption in 1914. Accessible on foot from the Ferry Terminal.

Sakurajima Yōgan Nagisa Park

Take a relaxing walk around this coastal park of the Sakurajima ferry terminal at the start of the Nagisa Lava Trail, and relax in the free public footbaths looking out to Sakurajima. Accessible on foot from the Ferry Terminal.

Yunohira Observation Deck

The Yunohira Observation Deck, located on Sakurajima at 373 meters above sea level, offers panoramic views of Kagoshima City, Kinko Bay, and the volcano’s active crater, making it the island’s most popular sightseeing viewpoint. Accessible by Sakurajima Island View Bus and private car.

Arimura Lava Observation Deck

The Arimura Lava Observation Deck sits on a lava field from Sakurajima’s 1914 eruption, offering close-up views of the volcano’s rugged slopes, frequent eruptions, and surrounding scenery, with walking trails winding through dramatic volcanic landscapes. Accessible by private car only.

More Noteworthy Sights on Sakurajima

Sakurajima Dinosaur Park

Sakurajima Dinosaur Park is a family-friendly playground featuring large dinosaur statues, play equipment, and open spaces, set against views of Sakurajima. It’s especially popular with children and offers a fun break from the island’s volcanic sightseeing.

Sakurajima Visitor Center

The Sakurajima Visitor Center showcases the volcano’s history, eruptions, and local life through exhibits, videos, and models. It’s an informative stop for learning about Sakurajima’s geology and culture, with free admission and multilingual displays.

Kurokami Shrine Gate

Kurokami Shrine Gate, partially buried by Sakurajima’s 1914 eruption, stands with only its top visible above ground. It’s a striking reminder of the volcano’s power and a popular spot to witness nature’s impact on local history.

Kurokami Observation Point

The Kurokami Observation Point offers sweeping views of Sakurajima’s eastern side, including the impressive lava fields from the 1914 eruption. It’s a quieter, less crowded spot to enjoy the island’s volcanic scenery and surrounding landscape.

Getting around Sakurajima

Sakurajima Sightseeing Bus

The Sakurajima Island View Bus is a loop bus which departs the ferry terminal and travels to Yunohira Observation deck and back, operating every 30 minutes. You can get a one day Island View Bus pass for 500JPY, or you can get the Kagoshima CUTE Pass, which provides unlimited rides of the Sakurajima Island View Bus, the Sakurajima Ferry, Kagoshima Street Cars, and the Kagoshima Sightseeing bus. A 1 day Cute pass costs 1300JPY, or a 2-day Pass for 1900JPY.

Accessing Sakurajima

You can get to Sakurajima from Kagoshima on foot easily by taking the Sakurajima Ferry from the Kagoshima Ferry Terminal to Sakurajima. You can purchase individual tickets for the ferry, or you can use the Sakurajima CUTE Pass to cover the cost of the ferry. A one-way fare on the Sakurajima Ferry is 250JPY for foot passengers.

You can also take a car on the Sakurajima Ferry, with the cost of the journey ranging between 1700JPY and 2350JPY depending on the length of the vehicle, paid at Kagoshima Port.

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Where to Stay

Richmond Hotel Kagoshima

Stay in style at Richmond Hotel Kagoshima, featuring modern rooms, great dining, and easy access to city attractions.

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Hotel Sunflex Kagoshima

Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel Sunflex Kagoshima, offering modern amenities, prime location, and exceptional service.