The volcanic activity that powers Unzen’s hot springs also nurtures the unique flora and fauna of the area. Since the late sixteenth century, residents have worked to conserve the native Miyama Kirishima azaleas that bloom in the Oku-Unzen area. Travel by car from Nagasaki to Tashirobaru in northern Unzen to contribute to vital conservation efforts by helping cut back the undergrowth so the azaleas can continue to thrive. Discover a way of life in coexistence with volcanoes, long sustained by the local community. Break for a hearty lunch, then participate in an optional zazen meditation session.

In the afternoon, drive to Taneto, an organic store in the town of Chijiwa. The store promotes sustainable shopping, and you can buy fresh organic produce from local farmers, second-hand books, and pottery. Afterward, travel to Obama Onsen and visit the footbath facility Hot Foot 105. Then, head to the organic store Taneto, where they will steam the organic vegetables and eggs you purchase using ultra-hot geothermal steam. Savor the vegetables' natural sweetness and concentrated flavors drawn out by volcanic heat.

End the day at Unzen Onsen, a hot springs town that has been popular since the early twentieth century. Accommodations range from traditional Japanese inns to modern luxury hotels. Enjoy bathing in the hot spring waters, try local dishes, and rest well for the next day’s activities.

Take an early morning walk around the Unzen Jigoku hot spring fields at the foot of Mount Unzen, an active volcano at the center of the Shimabara Peninsula. Jigoku means “hell,” and the barren rocks and sulfuric steam plumes conjure images of a hellish inferno.

Explore the natural beauty of the Shimabara Peninsula, where tens of thousands of years of volcanic activity have created fertile farmland. Experience the connection between the environment and the local culture by harvesting vegetables and joining a dyeing experience using local plants.

Travel by car to Unzen Tsumura Farm to learn about sustainable farming and help harvest seasonal crops grown without chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Learn about the relationship between volcanoes and the abundant foods of the Shimabara Peninsula, nicknamed "the stomach of 100 million people" due to its shape and food resources.

After lunch, visit the Heisei Shinzan Nature Center, where you can get an up-close view of Mount Heisei Shinzan, Japan's newest volcano formed by recent eruptions. You will also learn about the history of Mount Fugen and the formation of Mount Heisei Shinzan.

After a day of experiencing the area’s sustainable practices, drive to Kuchinotsu Port near the tip of the Shimabara Peninsula. From here you can take a ferry to Shimoshima, the largest of around 120 islands in the Amakusa archipelago. Stay overnight in Amakusa to explore the area.

Make an early start to join a sea kayaking tour around the Amakusa Islands. On a half-day Amakusa Island Kayak Tour, you can paddle around uninhabited islands with exposed ancient stone strata and otherwise unreachable secret coves. The view of Mount Unzen from sea level is particularly impressive. Help conserve the beautiful marine environment by collecting trash that has washed up on the shore. Take this opportunity to reflect on how human activity, even when unintentional, affects beautiful natural landscapes, and consider ways of living that minimize impact on the natural environment.