Hiking in the Kirishima Mountains

What to know

The Kirishima Mountains boast some of Japan's most spectacular volcanic scenery, with numerous elegant cones and craters. Several hiking trails are available, best enjoyed from spring through autumn, as winter snow may block some routes.

A top recommendation is the Kirishima Ridge Trail, which traverses the entire mountain chain from Ebino Kogen to the Takachiho-gawara Visitor Center. This 12-kilometer route takes about six hours. You can start from either end, but since public transport is limited, plan your return journey in advance.

Starting from Ebino Kogen, a steep 2.5-kilometer climb (90–120 minutes) leads to the summit of Mount Karakunidake, Kirishima's highest peak at 1,700 meters. Its name means "view of Korea," as legend says you can see Korea from the top. From Karakunidake, the trail continues 4.5 kilometers (2–3 hours) to Mount Shinmoedake (1,421 meters).

Until 2011, James Bond fans might have recognized Shinmoedake's pretty crater lake as the underground lair of Ernst Blofeld in "You Only Live Twice." However, recent eruptions have replaced the lake with a new lava dome. From Shinmoedake, it's two more kilometers (one hour) to Nakadake (1,332 meters), then a 2.5-kilometer descent (one hour) to the Takachiho-gawara Visitor Center.

The Kirishima Mountains also hold a key place in Japan's creation myth. It is said that Ninigi no Mikoto, grandson of the Sun Goddess, descended here to establish the imperial lineage. His spear, used to create the Japanese islands, was thrown onto the summit of Mount Takachiho-no-mine, marking the spot of his descent. The spear remains there today.

Beyond its mythological significance, Takachiho-no-mine (1,574 meters) offers a popular hike for its scenic beauty. The ascent starts at the Takachiho-gawara Visitor Center, takes about 90 minutes, and involves steep terrain with loose volcanic rocks. You can do this hike alone or combine it with the Kirishima Ridge Trail for a long but rewarding day among the volcanoes.