Explore Kyushu’s Most Active Volcanic Region
Kagoshima Prefecture has the largest number of active volcanoes of any prefecture in Kyushu, making it a fascinating spot for visitors interested in nature and volcanic phenomena. Sakurajima is particularly notable as the most active volcano in Japan. This composite stratovolcano has three peaks: Kitadake, Nakadake, and the active Minamidake. Sakurajima is just a few kilometers away from Kagoshima City, across Kinkowan Bay.
Evidence of past volcanic activity can be seen all around Kagoshima. The Kirishima mountain range is dotted with volcanic peaks like Mt. Karakuni, Mt. Shinmoedake, and Mt. Ohachi. Ibusuki City, meanwhile, is home to Mt. Kaimon, as well as Lake Ikeda and the mountainous Yamagawa area. Near the city of Aira, the prefecture’s volcanic past can also be glimpsed at Lake Sumiyoshi and Mt. Yonemaru.
Kinkowan Bay, which lies between the prefecture’s two peninsulas, was formed when the 20-kilometer-wide Aira caldera collapsed in a huge eruption 30,000 years ago and was reclaimed by the sea. The deep bay and rich volcanic deposits have made both land and sea bountiful. Kagoshima is known throughout Japan for delicious, high-quality food products, including sweet potatoes, black pork, eel, bonito, and amberjack.