The Sakurajima Volcanic Park is a stunning seaside park on the western side of Sakurajima, less than five minutes walk from the Sakurajima Ferry Terminal. You will be treated to a picturesque view of Kagoshima across the Kagoshima Bay and Sakurajima from the Volcanic Park.
Sakurajima is one of the most active volcanos in Japan, with small ash eruptions nearly daily. Once an Island, Sakurajima was connected to the Japanese Island of Kyushu in the early 1900s when the volcano erupted, sending layers and layers of lava into the ocean. Eventually, the lava connected the island’s eastern side to Kyushu, officially becoming a peninsula.
At the Sakurajima Volcanic Shore Park, you can find short and easy walking trails, scenic lookouts, wild and jagged volcanic rock formations from previous eruptions, a number of friendly local cats, and naturally-heated public footbaths. The footbaths are a popular place to relax and take in the remarkable scenery. On clear days, you can see Sakurajima steaming away through the Showa Crater, a mere six kilometres from the shore park.
Another attraction of the Sakurajima Shore Park is the Nagisa Lava Trail, accessed from the park. This walking trail follows the shoreline and takes visitors through the lava fields, offering a closer look at the volcanic terrain and providing informative displays about the geology and history of Sakurajima’s eruptions.
Nearby, you can also find the Sakurajima Visitor Center. The Sakurajima Visitor Center provides educational exhibits about the volcano, its eruptions, and the region’s geology.
Sakurajima is an active volcano. Small eruptions are common, with most simply ejecting ash. In most cases, you won’t need to evacuate. However, as with any geothermally active area, you must follow safety regulations and be prepared to evacuate in case of emergency. Should you need to leave the island in a hurry, the Sakurajima Ferry operates 24/7; if you feel unsafe while on Sakurajima, don’t hesitate to self-evacuate while you wait for official guidance. The Sakurajima Visitor Center also provides safety information, should you wish to check it out.
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 9:00am - 5:30pm
- Free
- Average Time Spent: 10-20 Minutes
Where To Stay
Accessing Sakurajima Shore Park
The Sakurajima Volcanic Shore Park is located less than 5 minutes from the Sakurajima Ferry Terminal, and can be found just behind the Sakurajima Island visitor centre.
From Kagoshima City
The ferry terminal to Sakurajima is in the northern part of Kagoshima’s main city area. It is about a 10-minute walk from JR Kagoshima Station or a 7-minute walk from Suizokukanguchi Station on the Kagoshima Streetcar line.
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