ITINERARY
Experience the Volcanoes, Wildlife, and Historic Culture of Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park on a Train Journey
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Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park is home to many remarkable destinations, including Sakurajima, a volcano that is still active today; Kinkowan Bay, a cradle of diverse living things; and the Kirishima volcanic range, where more than 20 volcanoes of varying sizes are clustered together.
This journey explores the dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity alongside the lives, history, and culture of the people who live in the area. Another appeal is that the area is easy to visit using public transportation such as trains and ferries. With the opening of Sengan-en Station and the renovation of Kirishima-Jingu Station, access to both the Kinkowan Bay and Kirishima areas has become even more convenient.
Itinerary Highlights
- Cruise to Sakurajima and experience the island's diverse charms by learning about its formation and the daily lives of its residents.
- Observe marine life up close and gain a firsthand sense of the abundance of Kinkowan Bay and the blessings of the sea.
- Discover the folklore stories interweaving nature and faith in the Kirishima region.
Join a guide to explore the attractions of the still-active Sakurajima
Your rail journey begins at JR Kagoshima-Chuo Station, where you set off for JR Sengan-en Station. Explore Sengan-en garden which offers views of Sakurajima and Kinkowan Bay, as well as the Shoko Shuseikan Museum. Both sites are part of a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. After having lunch in the garden, continue on to JR Kagoshima Station, then walk about 10 minutes to the Kagoshima Port Sakurajima Ferry Terminal to cross over to Sakurajima.
On Sakurajima, join the “Guided Geo Discovery Tour.” From observation points close to the volcano crater, experience the power of the natural volcanic landscape, while deepening your understanding of the lives and industries of people who live alongside the volcano through the guide's commentary.
Explore the Kinkowan Bay coastline with a guide and experience the richness of its ecosystem
In the morning, travel from Sakurajima to JR Kagoshima Station, then continue on to JR Shigetomi Station. Explore scenic areas such as Nunobiki Falls and historic stone-paved paths along the outer rim of the Aira Caldera.
After lunch, head to JR Aira Station and visit the Shigetomi Kaigan Nature Experience Museum (Nagisa Museum). Join a guided Kinkowan Bay Marine Life Observation Tour, a guided program that explores the Kinkowan Bay coastline, where a rich ecosystem thrives. By observing marine life up close, you can experience firsthand the abundance of the sea and the natural blessings created by the Aira Caldera. After the tour, continue on to your accommodation near Kokubu Station, Hayato Station, or Hinatayama Station.
Walk through Kirishima's farming area and learn about the history of nature and faith at Kirishima-jingu Shrine
On this day, depart from JR Kokubu Station and head into the Kirishima area. After traveling to JR Kirishima-Jingu Station, walk about six kilometers along the Kyushu Nature Trail toward Kirishima-jingu Shrine, enjoying the tranquil farming village scenery along the way.
At Kirishima-jingu Shrine, stroll through the grounds using a smartphone audio guide, which introduces the stories of nature and faith associated with the Kirishima mountain range. From the observation deck, you can take in panoramic views of Sakurajima and Kinkowan Bay, offering a chance to reflect on your journey so far.
Afterward, return to Kokubu Station and continue on to Kagoshima Airport to head to your next destination.