Mount Unzen

Mount Unzen (雲仙岳, Unzendake), an imposing and active volcano located on the Shimabara Peninsula, offers breathtaking views shaped by centuries of eruptions. While its most recent activity in the 1990s caused significant destruction, today the mountain attracts visitors for its scenic beauty, with vibrant spring azaleas, lush summer greenery, and rare autumn foliage that peaks from late October to mid-November. Recognized for its outstanding beauty in 1934, Mount Unzen became part of Unzen-Amakusa National Park, one of Japan's first national parks, ensuring the protection of its natural landscapes. The mountain’s ever-changing vistas make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

A great way to start your visit is at Nita-toge Pass, where the Unzen Ropeway takes you to the upper station, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Ariake Sea. From here, visitors can hike to Fugendake (1,359 m), the summit of which provides sweeping views, and then continue to Heisei Shinzan (1,486 m), a steaming peak formed by volcanic eruptions in the 1990s. At the base of the mountain lies Unzen Onsen, a tranquil hot spring town offering soothing baths and comfortable accommodations. Not far from the onsen, the Heisei Shinzan Nature Center provides educational exhibits about the volcanic activity and ongoing preservation efforts, along with trails and lookout points that allow visitors to experience the mountain’s powerful, awe-inspiring presence up close.