What to know
The Shimabara Peninsula (島原半島, Shimabara Hantō) is a popular hot spring and hiking destination east of Nagasaki City. Formed by volcanic eruptions of Mount Unzen at its center, the peninsula witnessed several deadly eruptions, including the 1990s events that killed several people and destroyed parts of Shimabara City.
Mount Unzen lies within Unzen Amakusa National Park, one of Japan's first national parks. Near the peak of this still-active volcano is Unzen Onsen, an attractive hot spring resort town. The peninsula is also famous for the Shimabara Rebellion, a major peasant uprising during the Edo Period (1603–1868) that involved many local Christians.
Activities and attractions
Mount UnzenOne of Japan’s most destructive volcanoes
Unzen OnsenHot spring resort on the slopes of Mount Unzen
Unzen Disaster MuseumWhere to learn more about the 1990s eruptions
Shimabara CastleReconstructed castle with nearby samurai district
Hara Castle RuinsSite of the final battle of the Shimabara Rebellion