Sakurajima - Kagoshima, Japan
I arrived in Kagoshima on an overnight ferry from Osaka without any plans for the day, unsure how tired I’d be. After reaching Kagoshima-chuo Station, I decided to visit Sakurajima (桜島) again. Even though I had been there twice before, the volcanic island was still a magnificent sight.
A short tram and ferry ride later, I arrived and headed toward the footbath near the visitor center, overlooking the ocean and volcano. Before relaxing, I took a quick walk on a nearby trail. As I soaked my feet, a stray cat came by to say hi. Some days, it’s nice to slow down and enjoy nature.
Highlights of Sakurajima 桜島:
Yunohira Observation Deck - Panoramic view and you can see the crater up close
Kurokami Buried Shrine Gate - Remains of a Torii gate buried by a huge volcanic eruption in 1914
Sakurajima Volcanic Shore Park and Footbath - Relax in the public foot bath with great views
Route Overview
Distance: 7.84 km out & back (Sakurajima Port)
Total elevation gain: 70 m
Duration: 1 hr 37 min (with breaks 2 hr 32 min)
Difficulty: Easy
Cost Breakdown
Tram: Kagoshima Chuo Station → Suizokukanguchi Station — ¥170
Ferry: Kagoshima Port → Sakurajima Port RT — ¥500
