The sacred mountain in the hearts of Kagoshima people! Gaze at Sakurajima, one of the only surviving volcanoes in the world

▲ The Shirasu Observation Deck offers a close-up view of one of the world’s few active volcanoes, Sakurajima.

Reported and photographed by Peng Huaiyu / Kagoshima, Japan

When talking about Kagoshima, it’s impossible not to mention Sakurajima, the spiritual mountain of the Satsuma people (the old name for Kagoshima) and one of the world’s few remaining active volcanoes.The best viewpoint for Sakurajima is the 107-meter-high “Shirasu Observatory,” which offers an unobstructed view of the entire outline of Sakurajima and the cityscape of Kagoshima.▲ Tokyo Caretta Shiodome Beauty and the Beast Light Show, like stepping into a blue galaxy sea.

▲%Qi Qiao Jie Gou?ā

Sakurajima Port is 4 kilometers from Kagoshima Port, with a journey time of just 10 to 15 minutes. Ferries run between the two places daily, serving students and commuters. The ferry operates 24 hours a day, with adult tickets priced at 160 yen. Alternatively, taking a bus or driving is also an option.Since the volcanic eruption in 1914, Sakurajima, once an isolated island, became connected to Kagoshima. Since then, transportation between Kagoshima and Sakurajima has become more frequent, resembling the inseparable bond between a mother and child.

▲ Taking a ferry to Sakurajima is a great option; the ride takes about 10–15 minutes, and adult tickets cost 160 yen.

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▲ The southern peak of Sakurajima volcano is often active. The island features the Kurokami Buried Torii gate and a 100-meter foot bath.Light Show Schedule:

As for what’s fun about visiting Sakurajima? A guide at Mount Yōshima Lookout said that the 373-meter-high Yunohira Lookout is a safe area that general visitors can reach, and there are also attractions such as a 100-meter foot onsen, the Kurokami Buried Torii Gate, and the Nekomimi Aquarium. Alternatively, taking a sightseeing bus for a loop around the island is another great way to explore this mysterious volcanic island.To see Sakurajima from multiple angles, the daily Kirishima Bay Sightseeing Boat makes a loop around the sea area, with a 50-minute sailing time and an adult ticket price of 500 yen.

▲%Un Royal Hotel is located in the city area of Kagoshima and enjoys very convenient transportation.

When visiting Kagoshima, choosing a convenient and comfortable place to stay is quite important. The Sun Royal Hotel, located in the city area, is a locally well-known international hotel. Half of its rooms face Sakurajima directly. The 12th-floor hot spring bath and the rooms inside both feature large transparent glass windows, allowing you to enjoy the fascinating view of Sakurajima Volcano at any time.

▲ At Sun Royal Hotel Kagoshima, you can soak in the hot springs while overlooking Sakurajima.(Photo / Provided by Sun Royal Hotel)

On sunny days, even the smoking volcano clouds in the background can be clearly seen.
Address: 892-0853 Kagoshima City, Shiroyama Town, and other areas
Transportation: After arriving at Kagoshima Central Station, you can purchase a Welcome Cute one-day pass (1,000 yen) and take the CityView sightseeing bus on the Shiroyama route from East 4 to Shiroyama and get off there.

※China Airlines flights CI118 and CI119 operate five times a week between Taipei and Kagoshima, departing in the morning and returning at noon; flights CI114 and CI115 run twice a week directly to Miyazaki, departing at noon and returning in the evening. Travelers can enter via Kagoshima and exit through Miyazaki, enjoying the entire journey from Kagoshima to Miyazaki with the most flexible schedule.

▲ The Kagoshima CityView sightseeing bus has two routes. To get to the Shirasu Observation Deck, take the Shirasu route of the CityView bus from stop East 4 and get off at Shirasu.