Sakurajima Volcano Loop — Kagoshima Active CraterRide.
Distance
45 km
Duration
1 day
Climb
350 m
Sakurajima Volcano Loop — Kagoshima Active Crater Ride.
A short but unforgettable circumnavigation of Sakurajima — one of the world's most active volcanoes, which erupts ash daily. Ferry across Kinkō Bay from Kagoshima (15 min, motorcycles welcome), then ride the perimeter road past buried torii gates, lava observatory points 2km from the active crater, and sweeping views back to the city across the bay. Clean the helmet visor after — fine volcanic ash gets everywhere.
Quick facts
SurfacePaved
Distance45 km
Days1
Total climb350 m
DifficultyEasy
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The route.
Kagoshima Port Ferry TerminalStart · Start at Kagoshima Port. Ferries depart 24/7, every 15 minutes during the day. Motorcycles board first. Pay onboard.
Sakurajima Ferry TerminalFerry · Arrive at Sakurajima Port after a 15-minute crossing. Visitor centre on the right. Begin the loop counter-clockwise via the west coast.
Yunohira ObservatoryScenic Point · Closest observation point to the crater — only 2.5km from the active vent at 373m elevation. Active venting visible most days. Best in morning light.
Arimura Lava ObservatoryPhoto Spot · Walkway over the 1914 lava flow on the southeast flank. Views of Kita-dake (north peak) actively venting steam and ash.
Sakurajima Daikon Farm CaféRestaurant · Try the famous giant Sakurajima daikon radish (grows up to 30kg) and the tiny Sakurajima orange. Volcanic soil makes them sweeter.
Sakurajima Ferry Terminal ReturnEnd · Loop complete back to the ferry. Wash your bike — sulphur ash corrodes aluminium if left on. Ferry back to Kagoshima for sakura beer at sunset.
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