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.