Sakurajima () is one of Japan's most active volcanoes and the symbol of Kagoshima. The volcano smokes constantly, and minor eruptions often take place multiple times per day. Located in the middle of Kagoshima Bay, Sakurajima is the area's most prominent geographic feature, having an elevation of 1117 meters and a circumference of about 50 kilometers.
Before a powerful eruption in 1914, Sakurajima used to be an island in the bay, but the massive lava flow from that eruption created the volcano's current land connection to the Osumi Peninsula in the east. For the majority of travelers, however, the volcano is still most easily accessed by the ferries that run the 3.5 kilometers between Kagoshima Port and the Sakurajima Ferry Terminal.
Sakurajima has three main peaks: Kita-dake ("north peak", 1117 meters), Naka-dake ("middle peak" 1060 meters) and Minami-dake ("southern peak", 1040 meters). The Minami-dake peak is currently the most active, with many eruptions taking place from the Showa Crater on the peak's eastern slope. It is prohibited to approach within two kilometers of the volcano's craters, but there are many observation points around Sakurajima where eruptions can be observed from about three kilometers away.
Travelers visiting Sakurajima can find many attractions just around the ferry terminal, including an onsen, foot baths, short hiking trails and an information center. Those who would like to further explore the volcano should travel by rental car, which can be taken across the water from Kagoshima by the ferries. Sightseeing buses, regular buses and rental bicycles are other possible methods of travel.
Around the ferry terminal
Elsewhere around Sakurajima
Getting there and around
How to get to Sakurajima
Central Kagoshima and Sakurajima are connected around the clock by frequent ferries. The one way ride takes 15 minute and costs 250 yen. The ferry terminal is a ten minute walk from JR Kagoshima Station or a five minute walk from the Suizokukan-guchi tram stop, and is also served by the City View Buses.
Cars can be taken onto the Sakurajima ferry and cost 1700 yen one way for 3-4 meter long cars or 2350 yen one way for 4-5 meter long cars. Those trying to avoid the ferry will need to make a 90 minute detour to reach the southeastern end of the Sakurajima peninsula via land (slightly faster if using the expressway).
How to get around Sakurajima
By far the easiest way to travel around Sakurajima is by rental car. Driving once around the coast of Sakurajima takes about an hour. Car rental outlets can be found in the city center and at Kagoshima Airport.
It is also possible to travel around Sakurajima by public transportation. There is a loop bus for tourists, the Sakurajima Island View Bus, that operates every 30 minutes from the ferry terminal to the Yunohira observation point and back. The fare depends on the distance traveled or is 500 yen for a 1-day pass.
Lastly, there are regular city buses that run roughly hourly from the ferry terminal along the northern coast and along the western coast of Sakurajima; however, they do not make the entire loop around the peninsula. To access the Kurokami area, a transfer of buses is required along the way, with connections only every 2-3 hours.
How to get to and around Kagoshima
Questions? Ask in our forum.
Links and Resources
Hotels around Kagoshima
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Sheraton KagoshimaView on Booking.comElegant Accommodation
Sheraton Kagoshima in Kagoshima offers a 5-star experience with a hot spring bath, spa facilities, sauna, fitness centre, and a beautiful garden. Guests can relax on the terrace or enjoy the open-air bath.Dining and Leisure
The family-friendly restaurant serves local cuisine in a traditional, modern, and romantic ambience. Dining options include brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktails. Additional amenities include a bar, massage services, and free WiFi.Comfort and Convenience
Rooms feature air-conditioning, private bathrooms, sea or mountain views, and modern amenities. The hotel provides a shuttle service, public bath, fitness room, and a 24-hour front desk. Kagoshima Airport is 39 km away. -
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SHIROYAMA HOTEL kagoshimaFeaturing an open-air natural hot spring bath overlooking Sakurajima Volcano and the sea, SHIROYAMA HOTEL kagoshima offers a spa centre, 7 dining options and a concierge. Rooms have free wired internet. Some rooms come with a view of Sakurajima volcano and Kinko-wan Bay. All are equipped with an LCD TV with satellite channels, a fridge and a safe. The spa at SHIROYAMA HOTEL kagoshima offers a mist sauna, a flower bath and massage treatments. Guests can also enjoy karaoke and shopping. Restaurant Le Ciel offers panoramic city views and Western food, while other restaurants serve Japanese and Chinese specialities. Castle Park houses its own bakery and brewery. A free bus circulates between SHIROYAMA HOTEL kagoshima, JR Kagoshima Chuo Station and downtown area Tenmonkan, both a 10-minute drive away.View on Booking.com -
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Hotel SHUTECView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Hotel SHUTEC in Kagoshima offers aparthotel-style rooms with air-conditioning, kitchenettes, and private bathrooms. Each unit includes a washing machine, refrigerator, microwave, and TV.Modern Amenities
Guests enjoy free WiFi, a lift, family rooms, and full-day security. Additional features include a sofa, electric kettle, kitchenware, and stovetop.Convenient Location
Located 37 km from Kagoshima Airport, the aparthotel is praised for its room cleanliness, child-friendliness, and convenient location. -
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fav KAGOSHIMA CHUOView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Fav KAGOSHIMA CHUO in Kagoshima offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and free WiFi in public areas. Each room includes a kitchenette, kitchenware, and a washing machine.Convenient Facilities
Guests can enjoy a terrace, lift, and luggage storage. Paid off-site private parking is available. The hotel provides a paid laundry service and a paid laundry service.Prime Location
Located 38 km from Kagoshima Airport, the hotel is highly rated for its kitchen, room comfort, and convenient location. English and Japanese are spoken at reception. -
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GRAND BASE Kagoshima TenmonkanView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
GRAND BASE Kagoshima Tenmonkan in Kagoshima offers spacious family rooms with air-conditioning, kitchenettes, and private bathrooms. Guests enjoy free WiFi, full-day security, and amenities such as washing machines, refrigerators, and TVs.Modern Amenities
Each room includes a dining table, sofa, and seating area. Additional features include a microwave, electric kettle, kitchenware, and stovetop. The aparthotel provides a comfortable and convenient stay for all visitors.Convenient Location
Located 39 km from Kagoshima Airport, the aparthotel is highly rated for its room cleanliness, comfort, and size. Reception staff speak English and Japanese, ensuring smooth communication for international guests. -
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JR Kyushu Hotel KagoshimaDirectly connected to JR Kagoshima Chuo Shinkansen (bullet train) Station, JR Kyushu Hotel Kagoshima offers modern guest rooms with free Wi-Fi in 2 separate towers. Local Kagoshima cuisine can be savoured at the on-site restaurant. All rooms at JR Kyushu Hotel feature an LCD TV, air conditioning, air purifier and a small fridge. A hairdryer and toiletries are included in the en suite bathroom. Free luggage storage services are offered at the front desk. In-room massages can be arranged. There are also coin laundrettes. Ekitei Satsuma restaurant serves traditional Kagoshima specialties, as well as other Japanese dishes. A hearty breakfast buffet is also offered there. Guests can reach Sakurajima in 30 minutes by bus and ferry. The hotel is a 7-minute drive from Terukuni Shrine, and a 13-minute drive from Senganen Garden. Kagoshima Aquarium is a 6-minute drive away. Kagoshima Airport is a 40-minute drive away.View on Booking.com -
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Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kagoshima Tenmonkan PREMIER - former Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kagoshima TenmonkanView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Rooms feature air-conditioning, private bathrooms with free toiletries, and modern amenities such as TV, work desks, and refrigerators. Guests enjoy bathroom comfort and room comfort highly rated by visitors.Dining Options
The hotel offers a romantic restaurant with a buffet breakfast, a coffee shop, and a child-friendly buffet. Additional facilities include a lift, 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, full-day security, and luggage storage.Convenient Location
Located in Kagoshima, the hotel is 38 km from the airport. Nearby attractions include Tenmonkan and Senganen Garden. Guests appreciate the convenient location and excellent service. -
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Henn na Hotel Premier Kagoshima TenmonkanView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Henn na Hotel Premier Kagoshima Tenmonkan in Kagoshima offers rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and free WiFi. Guests appreciate the room cleanliness and comfort.Dining Experience
The hotel features a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine for lunch and an Asian breakfast. A sauna and public bath provide relaxation options.Convenient Facilities
The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, lift, full-day security, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a work desk, TV, and free toiletries.Prime Location
Located 38 km from Kagoshima Airport, the hotel is situated in a convenient area. Guests enjoy easy access to local attractions. -
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FAV LUX Kagoshima TenmonkanView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
FAV LUX Kagoshima Tenmonkan in Kagoshima offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a tea and coffee maker, refrigerator, and free toiletries.Dining Experience
The modern restaurant serves European cuisine for lunch and dinner. Guests can enjoy American and ? la carte breakfasts in a welcoming ambience.Leisure Facilities
The hotel features a terrace, outdoor seating area, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include a lift, full-day security, and streaming services.Prime Location
Located 39 km from Kagoshima Airport, the hotel offers a scenic view and is highly rated for its child-friendly environment and comfortable rooms. -
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Hostel TomalView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodation
Hostel Tomal in Kagoshima offers free WiFi, air-conditioning, and a shared kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, electric kettle, stovetop, and toaster. Guests can also enjoy a coffee shop and bicycle parking.Convenient Facilities
The hostel features a shared bathroom with a shower and slippers, a hairdryer, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a quiet street view and a convenient location 39 km from Kagoshima Airport.Guest Satisfaction
Highly rated by guests, Hostel Tomal is praised for its friendly host, convenient location, and suitability for city trips.
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