Volcanic Peaks & Scenic Parks

This collection highlights the dramatic geological activity and diverse landscapes of Kagoshima and Yakushima. It features the perennially active Sakurajima and the volcanic clusters of Mount Kirishima, including the mythological site of Mount Takachihonomine. The list also covers Mount Miyanoura, the highest peak in Kyushu, located within Yakushima's ancient cedar forests, alongside urban green spaces like Kinkouwan Park and the historic ruins of Ichiuji Castle.

Motamota / CC BY-SA 4.0

Mt. Shinmoe

Shinmoedake is a volcano in Kagoshima Prefecture, Kyūshū, Japan, and a part of the Mount Kirishima cluster of volcanoes.

TANAKA Juuyoh / CC-BY-SA-3.0

Sakurajima

One of the world's most active volcanoes and the symbol of Kagoshima. A massive 1914 eruption produced lava flows that connected the former island to the Osumi Peninsula.

Yanajin / CC BY-SA 3.0

Mt. Takachihonomine

A 1,574-meter volcanic peak in the Kirishima range. It is prominent in Japanese mythology as the site where the deity Ninigi-no-Mikoto is said to have descended to earth.

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Mt. Miyanoura

The highest peak on Yakushima Island and in the Kyushu region, reaching 1,936 meters. It is the centerpiece of a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient forest ecology.

Yanajin / CC BY-SA 3.0

Ohachi

An active volcanic crater located on the slopes of Mount Takachihonomine. It is characterized by its deep, circular vent and is a prominent feature of the Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park.

Sakoppi / CC BY 3.0

Shiroyama Park (Ichiuji Castle Ruins)

Ichiuji Castle is a castle structure in Hioki, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. Ichiuji Castle is also called Ijūin Castle.

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Kinkouwan park

A coastal urban park located adjacent to the Hirakawa Zoological Park. It features expansive lawns, seasonal rose gardens, and viewpoints overlooking Kinko Bay and Sakurajima.

Sakoppi / CC BY 3.0

かごしま健康の森公園

A large municipal recreation park in Kagoshima City. The grounds include sports facilities, an indoor heated pool, water gardens, and multiple walking trails through landscaped forest areas.