Understand

Immerse yourself in the captivating wonders of Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park, formerly known as Kirishima-Yaku National Park, located in the southern part of Kyushu, Japan. This expansive national park boasts over 20 awe-inspiring volcanoes, including the prominent Mt. Karakuni, and a plethora of enchanting crater lakes. This natural haven offers a wide array of activities to indulge in, from invigorating hikes and breathtaking live volcanic scenery to serene forest walks and thrilling cycling courses. Unwind in the midst of nature by camping under the stars or indulging in rejuvenating natural hot springs. It's worth noting that this area holds historical significance as Japan's first honeymoon site, chosen by the legendary samurai Ryoma Sakamoto in 1866 as a symbol of romance and adventure. However, do be cautious of volcanic activity, as the Shinmoedake crater lake, once featured in the James Bond film You Only Live Twice, underwent a dramatic transformation due to a volcanic eruption in 2011. Always stay informed about safety measures, as some areas adjacent to volcanic craters may be temporarily closed to hikers during hazardous gas emissions. Luckily, English signage is generally abundant, ensuring ease of navigation through this captivating national park.

Get in

If you're planning a visit to Kirishima, get ready to explore a vast and exciting region. The nearest station for accessing the hot springs is Kirishima Jingu on the JR Nippo Line, located between Kagoshima and Miyazaki. This short train ride of 45 minutes from Kagoshima and 80 minutes from Miyazaki brings you closer to the adventure. To reach the trailheads at Ebino Kogen, it's best to have your own car for convenience. The bus schedule to Ebino Kogen is subject to rapid changes, so having your own transportation ensures flexibility. From Kirishima Jingu, there are two buses available on Saturdays and Sundays (and daily in May), allowing you to reach Ebino Kogen in about 1 hour (740). The buses depart at 8 AM and 10:20 AM, returning at 1 PM and 3:30 PM. For the latest updates, contact the Kirishima Tourism Office at tel. 0995-78-2115 [2]. If you're coming from Miyazaki, head to Miyakoh City bus terminal, where Miyazaki Kotsu [3] offers one direct bus on Saturdays and Sundays (departing at 8:41 AM) and one on Sundays only (departing at 10:21 AM) that takes you to Ebino Kogen via Kobayashi. This scenic journey lasts approximately 2 hours and costs 2800 yen. Please note that this service operates from April to late November only. Exploring Kirishima and its stunning surroundings is an adventure worth undertaking. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience amidst nature's wonders!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing