Sakurajima - Kagoshima, Japan
I arrived in Kagoshima on an overnight ferry from Osaka with no plans for the day—unsure how tired I’d be after the journey. Once the shuttle dropped me off at Kagoshima-Chuo Station, I decided on a whim to visit Sakurajima again. Even though I’d been there twice before, the volcanic island still felt magnetic and awe-inspiring.
Getting there was simple. I took the Kagoshima City Tram to Suizokukanguchi Station, then walked about eight minutes to the Sakurajima Ferry Terminal. The short 15-minute ferry ride offered sweeping views of the active volcano across the bay. I stayed on deck the entire way, mesmerized by smoke curling above the crater.
Once on the island, I headed toward the Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Footbath, where the Hakamagoshi–Karasujima Lava Trail begins nearby. The path was mostly flat, weaving between coastal viewpoints that opened up to stunning sea and volcano vistas.
Stray cats lounged lazily along the route—some friendly, others keeping a cautious distance. Locals clearly care for them, with water and food bowls tucked into shaded corners. One curious cat approached me and allowed a quick pet before rolling back into the sun. The peaceful trail, the sound of waves, and the sight of Sakurajima rising in the distance made for an unexpectedly calming morning.
At the end of the trail, I reached the Karasujima Observatory, where a 360-degree view of the island unfolded before me. After a short rest, I retraced my steps to the footbath. It was empty when I arrived—quiet, serene, and spacious enough for over forty people. With the sea in front of me, cats napping in the grass, and the volcano to my right, it was blissfully tranquil.
That peace didn’t last long. A large, lively tour group soon arrived, filling the space with chatter and laughter. Smiling, I dried my feet and wandered over to Tsukiyomi Shrine, located across from the ferry terminal. The shrine overlooks the port, offering a beautiful view of the bay and city beyond. After that, I took the ferry back to Kagoshima—content and refreshed after a relaxing few hours on the island.
Highlights of Sakurajima:
Yunohira Observation Deck (湯之平展望所) – Panoramic view of Sakurajima’s crater and the city below
Kurokami Buried Shrine Gate (黒神埋没鳥居) – Remains of a torii gate half-buried by the 1914 eruption
Sakurajima Volcanic Shore Park & Footbath (桜島溶岩なぎさ公園足湯) – Japan’s largest natural footbath, with sea and volcano views
Background
Sakurajima (桜島), one of Japan’s most active volcanoes, sits in Kagoshima Bay and was once a separate island before the massive 1914 eruption connected it to the Osumi Peninsula with a flow of lava. Despite frequent minor eruptions, over 4,000 residents live on the island, adapting their lives around the volcano’s rhythms.
The Hakamagoshi–Karasujima Lava Trail traces land formed from past eruptions, offering a firsthand look at the ever-changing landscape. Once buried in ash and lava, the area has regrown into a green, living symbol of resilience—an embodiment of Kagoshima’s enduring spirit.
Getting There
You can reach Kagoshima-Chuo Station easily by Shinkansen or by air. Travelers from outside Kyushu may need to transfer at major hubs like Shin-Osaka or Hakata. I arrived from Osaka via the MOL Sunflower overnight ferry (you can read more about my experience here). The ferry docks at Shibushi Port, and a shuttle to Kagoshima-Chuo Station—about a 2-hour 10-minute ride—is included in the fare.
From Kagoshima, take the Kagoshima City Tram to Suizokukanguchi Station, then walk about 8 minutes to the Sakurajima Ferry Terminal. The ferry to Sakurajima takes roughly 15 minutes and runs frequently throughout the day.
Volcano Status & Safety
Sakurajima is an active volcano with frequent eruptions and ashfall, which can affect health, visibility, and transportation. Before visiting, check the latest volcanic activity updates from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) or local visitor centers. On days with significant ashfall, wear protective masks or eyewear and be prepared for temporary trail or ferry closures. Planning ahead ensures a safe and enjoyable visit while experiencing the dramatic landscapes around Kagoshima.
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
