Excursion Sakurajima volcano & arimura observatory tour at Kagoshima

Mt. Sakurajima, Foot Bath

You will reach Mt. Sakurajima by coach followed by a short ferry ride. It is an active stratovolcano, formerly an island and now a peninsula. Its summit has three peaks. The lava flows of the 1914 eruption connected it with the Osumi Peninsula. It is still the most active volcano in Japan. The volcanic activity still continues, dropping volcanic ash on the surroundings. Earlier eruptions built the white sand highlands in the region.

Mt. Sakurajima also has hot springs. You will make a stop at the Visitor Center to learn about Mt. Sakurajima, and Yogan Nagisa Park to try a Foot Bath.

Arimura Lava Observatory

Continue to the Arimura Lava Observatory, located on a small hill, which was created by an eruption in 1946. Enjoy views of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay while walking along the ¾ mile promenade. The volcano has had over 30 major eruptions in recorded history and is still experiencing minor eruptions almost daily. As the observatory is close to the crater of the steep cone shaped South Peak, it is quite possible you may hear explosive sounds from the crater.

Following your visit to Arimura Observatory, re -board your coach for the return drive to the Sakurajima Ferry Port and embark a ferry for the ride back to Kagoshima.

Your tour concludes with an approximate 45-minute transfer back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Kagoshima, Sakurajima Volcano Island, Arimura Observatory, 15 minute public ferry ride in each direction

Note

This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 800 meters, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. There are 300 meters walking to the Shiroyama Observatory and approximately 100 steaps at Arimura Observatory. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses from the ship. Towels are not provided during this tour, guests are advised to bring their own from the ship. The tour sequence may vary. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility.  The duration of the tour may vary depending on the docking position.