A real adventure: "The Unzen Volcano Story: Sky, Sea, Earth"

What's Mt. Unzen like? A quick preview!

Mt. Unzen Recommended Route | The Unzen Volcano Story: Sky, Sea, Earth

3 nights/4 days: Discover our recommended route around the Shimabara Peninsula and Mt. Unzen.
Activity level; ★★★★☆

Jutting out into the sea on the western side of Kyushu, the Shimabara Peninsula is a uniquely-shaped land formation created through eruptions in the Unzen Volcanic Area, one of the world's foremost volcanic regions.

The region has been designated a Global Geopark by UNESCO. Three eruptions recorded in the Unzen Volcanic Area in historic times have formed this area, and have had an immense impact on the daily lives of the people living here.

An eruption in 1991 resulted in the appearance of a new peak—Heisei Shinzan—on the slopes of Mt. Fugendake (one of the peaks of Mt. Unzen).

During this tour, you'll learn about the resilience of the local people, who have had to rebuild their lives after eruptions, and who have also received so many benefits from the volcanic activity; a variety of activities also provide opportunities to learn about the geothermal water sources of Mt. Unzen, visible in the hot springs and craters giving off plumes of volcanic gas which tell of the immense energy coming from deep within the earth.

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Required clothing and footwear

Clothes allowing easy movement
Hiking shoes

What to bring

Water in a water bottle
Protective gripper gloves (gunte)
Towel
Hat
Change of clothes (underwear, t-shirt etc., whatever you prefer to wear)
In summer, visitors can also swim at the 4th point on the route if they bring a swimsuit.

【DAY1】 Unzen Jigoku (Unzen Hell)

Activity level; ★☆☆☆☆
Time required: 2 hours

There will be an introduction to start the tour.
After arriving at the site, you'll meet your local guide, who will take you around the steamy "Unzen Hell."
At Mt. Unzen, even "volcano enthusiasts" who've experienced volcanic craters and fumaroles on previous occasions will discover new surprises that they never imagined before!

【DAY2】 Mt. Kusenbudake Trekking

Activity level; ★★★★☆
Time required: 6 hours
Elevation: 1,062 m

We will warm-up by trekking through Mt. Kusenbudake as our entry-point for Mt. Unzen.
The route is ever-changing, with gently-meandering slopes alternating with dramatic slopes that open up before your eyes. You'll be accompanied by your guide, who will adjust their pace to yours as you ascend the mountain.
You will encounter plants that are special to each season—and perhaps animals too, if you are lucky.
Who knows what discoveries await you as you make your way upwards!

【DAY3】 Mt. Fugendake Trekking

Activity level; ★★★★☆
Time required: 6 hours
Elevation: 1,359 m

This trek starts from Mt. Myokendake, and makes its way along the mountain trail of Mt. Kunimidake, to reach the summit of Mt. Fugendake.
Along the way, you'll see the world's newest mountain, Heisei Shinzan, rising up before you!
Its rugged rocky surface and plumes of smoke will leave you in no doubt that this is an active volcano.
With the natural splendor of the mountains before your eyes all day, this trek is a trip to be enjoyed to the full.

【DAY4】 Kunisaki Peninsula Cycling

Activity level;★★☆☆☆
Time required: 3 hours

Having previously climbed to higher elevations, on the second day we will change course and cycle downwards.
Our route will take us to Kunisaki Peninsula, our next goal, going through scenic spots where we can enjoy fine views of Fugendake's beautiful nature. From the mountains and sea around us, we will get a sense of the natural heritage offered by the Kunisaki Peninsula and Fugendake.

Accommodation

Unzen Onsen Seiunso

This hot spring uses only natural geothermic hot water that is piped straight from its source, deep within Mt. Unzen; what's more, the milky-white water of Unzen Onsen Seiunso is said to be good for creating beautiful skin. The food served here, making use of ingredients that have been nurtured to perfection in the rich mountain terrain and seas of Shimabara Peninsula, also comes highly recommended.
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Unzen Kyushu Hotel

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Miyazaki Ryokan

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