Japan View to Shinmoe-dake, Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park

Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park in southern Kyushu is one of Japan’s most fascinating natural treasures — a place where dramatic volcanic landscapes meet serene lakes and lush forests. You can hike up Mount Kirishima’s volcanic ridges, to catch breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and volcanic mountains.

Bring your tripod if you are alone like me. A person is always worth it in the picture to show a bit of a scale. Use an interval shutter or the camera app for some self portraits.

Park at Ebino Eco-Museum Center and inform yourself before about the hiking possibilities and which hikes are open. There can be changes every day depending on the volcanic activity. Sometimes there are spontaneous roadblocks.

The hike itself is a moderate one. Depending on your fitness level you hike about 1 - 1 1/2 hours one way up to the peak. The distance is about 3km with an elevation of 520 meter.