Sakurajima

Riding around Sakurajima offers a compact but distinctive cycling experience centered on one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. The route follows the coastal road encircling the former island—now a peninsula—covering approximately 35–40 kilometers with generally moderate elevation changes. Cyclists pass through areas shaped by historic lava flows, particularly from the 1914 eruption, with sections of black volcanic rock extending to the shoreline. Along the way are several observation points facing the Minamidake crater, which frequently emits steam and ash, as well as small fishing villages, citrus groves, and roadside hot footbaths using natural geothermal heat. Access is straightforward via a short ferry ride from Kagoshima City, and while traffic is present, the road is well maintained. Conditions can change due to volcanic activity, so visibility, ash fall, and wind are practical considerations when riding.

The Route

The route is quite easy as it’s just a loop around the island. Keep the ocean on the left and it’s hard to make a mistake!

Things to do and see

Half buried Torii gate

Kurokami Torii is just off the main coast road around the island so it’s easy to visit. This Torii gate was half buried by a volcanic eruption in 1914

Yumura Lava Flows

有村溶岩展望所 (Arimura Lava Observatory) is one of the most accessible and informative viewpoints on Sakurajima, located on the southeastern side of the volcano. The site sits atop lava fields formed during the 1914 Taishō eruption, the largest eruption in Sakurajima’s recorded history, which permanently connected the island to the Ōsumi Peninsula. A short, well-maintained walking path leads through hardened lava flows to several observation points, offering close views of the Minamidake crater and the surrounding volcanic landscape. Informational signage explains the geology of the area and the impact of past eruptions on local communities. The contrast between jagged black lava, coastal vegetation, and Kagoshima Bay makes the observatory both a geological landmark and a popular stop for visitors exploring Sakurajima.

Getting there and away

Kagoshima City

The Sakurajima Ferry connects the mainland to Sakurajima Island and runs all day (approx 4 AM to 11PM) with departures every 20 minutes during the day and only costs a few hundred yen to cross.

Osumi Peninsula

Despite being called an island, Sakura Jima Island isn’t an island but is connected directly to the Osumi Coast by land. Up until 1914 Sakurajima was an island but the 1914 eruption dumped enough lava/debris into the ocean to connect the island to the mainland

Osumi Peninsula has lots of wonderful riding, so riding through Sakurajima to jump off into Osumi Peninsula for riding