Mount Unzen

Welcome to Mount Unzen, a majestic volcanic complex on the Shimabara Peninsula that serves as a powerful reminder of the earth's raw energy and the resilience of the human spirit. This is a landscape where 'steam rises from the…

At the heart of Mount Unzen lies the ancient onsen town, centered around the iconic 'Unzen Jigoku' or Hell Springs. You are standing in a geothermal wonderland where white steam billows from cracks in the earth and the ground is…

From the onsen town, we ascend to the Nita Pass, which offers one of the most spectacular panoramas in all of Kyushu. To reach the pass, you can utilize electric bike rentals or a scenic drive that winds through the lush green…

Standing at the summit of Fugen-dake, at 1,359 meters, you are at what was once the highest point of Mount Unzen. The hike to this peak takes about an hour from the ropeway station and is manageable even for beginners, though it…

Behold Heisei Shinzan, the newest mountain in Japan. Formed during the eruptions between 1990 and 1995, this peak rose nearly 150 meters higher than Fugen-dake, making it the new highest point of the Unzen group at 1,486 meters. …

As we descend toward the eastern slopes, we encounter the somber legacy of the 1991 eruption. You are near the evacuation zone where, on June 3rd, 1991, a fatal miscalculation occurred. …

To truly experience Unzen, one must taste the bounty provided by its rich volcanic soil and the surrounding seas. The Shimabara Peninsula is a celebration of local flavor, where the natural power of the land nourishes both the…

As our tour of Mount Unzen concludes, we reflect on the complex relationship between humanity and this active volcanic landscape. Unzen is a 'hidden gem' for travelers seeking something different, a place where discovery and…