KAGOSHIMA
Sakurajima
Sakurajima, the symbol of Kagoshima, is a composite active volcano that combines two volcanoes, Kitadake and Minamidake, and is a rare volcano in the world that is still emitting smoke and raining ash. It is 1,117 meters high, 52 km in circumference, and 80 km2 in area, and was connected to the Osumi Peninsula by an eruption in 1914. In 1954, it was designated as a scenic beauty spot by the prefecture.
Kirishima Shrine
The “Kirishima Jingu Main Hall, Heiden Hall, and Haiden Hall” were designated as National Treasures by an official announcement in the official gazette on February 9, 2022 (Wed.)! The “Kirishima Jingu Noborouki and the Imperial Hall” are designated as Important Cultural Properties. The nine masks, or ku-men, which have been handed down in Kirishima Jingu Shrine since ancient times, have their own beliefs as they are connected to kumen, money, etc. There are good luck charms and various other goods available. In the surrounding area, there are places where visitors can enjoy the autumn foliage and the beautiful scenery created by volcanic activity, such as the Shinsuikyo Gorge, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and the sacred air away from the city.
Sand Mushi Hot Springs
The sand steaming hot spring (sand bath) is a natural sauna where you dig out sand from the beach, lie down, pour sand on top, and bathe your whole body in the hot spring heat that gushes out, so to speak. The benefits include arthritis, stiff shoulders, back pain, and sensitivity to cold, etc. After getting out of the sand and taking a quick bath, you will feel refreshed and lighter. The best part of this suna-mushi hot spring is that you can listen to nothing but the sound of the waves on the nature-filled beach and enjoy the exhilarating feeling of getting out of the sand all to yourself.