Sakura-jima桜島

A volcano is the symbol of Kagoshima. Sakura-jima Island is now a part of mainland as the result of volcanic eruptions.

Sakura-jima Island, where a rising column of smoke can sometimes be observed, floats in Kagoshima Bay, also called Kinko Bay, in the southern part of Kyushu. The mountain is a symbol of Kagoshima, located in the sea, about four kilometers from the center of the city. It has been the site of repeated big eruptions throughout history, and is one of the most famous active volcanoes in the world. Sakura-jima Island had originally been an isolated island, but the big eruption in 1914 caused the island to shift to a location adjacent to the Osumi-hanto Peninsula. Lava fields are spotted here and there on the island, testifying to the history of its violent eruptions.

Near Okiko-jima Islet is Sakura-jima Marine Park, where you can observe the seabed, with its coral reefs and sea anemones.The Sakura-jima Visitor Center includes a museum that provides you with a detailed history of the eruptions at Sakura-jima Island, and the relationship between the volcano and the local people. The Yunohira Observation Spot, 373 meters above sea level, is the spot nearest to the active Minami-dake crater, from which you can get a panoramic view that includes vast lava fields. In addition, there are some other well-arranged observation points with a host of dynamic sights, such as the Arimura Lava Observation Spot. Sakura-jima Island is also known for the Sakura-jima Radish, the largest variety in the world, and the Sakura-jima Mandarin, the smallest variety in the world.