Kirishima

Kirishima is a volcanic town located in Kagoshima Prefecture in southern Kyushu, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. According to Japanese mythology, Kirishima is known as the “cradle of creation,” where the grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu was sent to rule the earth and bring peace by creating an imperial lineage. The town’s main shrine, located deep within a primordial forest, is dedicated to this deity and is one of the most spiritually-powerful spots in Japan. One of Kirishima’s most popular attractions is its hot springs which are plentiful due to the area’s volcanic activity. It is believed the slightly acidic thermal waters are therapeutic and may relieve rheumatic pain and muscular tension, and thus is ideal to end a day of hiking with a dip in the hot springs. Also due to the volcanic landscape, the mineral-rich soil produces high quality black vinegar, green tea, shochu liquor (made from sweet potatoes), and mineral water.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Chin Jukan Kiln

From the 1st Chin Jukan though the current 15th, this Satsuma ware kiln has kept its fire burning. The 15th Chin Jukan produces a wide variety of distinctive yet traditional Shiro Satsuma and Kuro Satsuma works ranging from everyday items to tea ceremony instruments.

Satsuma Kiriko Glassworks

The production of Satsuma Kiriko was started at Sengan-en in 1851 by the 28th head of the Shimadzu family, Nariakira. Though the glass blowing and cutting techniques were lost for over 100 years, today you can watch master craftsmen blowing and cutting Satsuma Kiriko up close.

Satsuma Ware Pottery

Satsuma ware is a type of Japanese pottery originally from Satsuma Province, southern Kyushu. Satsuma ware was one of the most recognized and profitable export products of Japan for centuries, and even became one of the key sources of funding for the Meiji period reforms.

Kirishima Jingu

Surrounded by an ancient forest, this serene Shinto shrine features ornate architectural details and deep vermilion columns. Kirishima shrine also accommodates a unique natural feature, a cedar tree that is said to be 800 years old and an ancestor of all the great cedar forests across the island of Kyushu.

Kirishima Open Air Museum

Visit Kirishima Open Air Museum, located in the foothills of Mount Kirishima. As you stroll through the surrounding meadow lands, enjoy works by world class artists including Isamu Noguchi, James Turrell, Yoko Ono, Anish Kapoor, Takashi Murakami, Richard Long, Nam-June Paik and Marisol.

Kirishima National Park

This beautiful area was once volcanic lands. Now covered by foliage, visitors can hike around and view the crater lakes and a wide array of flora. Kirishima has ten crater lakes.

Maruo Falls

The 75-foot Maruo Falls are located in Kirishima City and are fed from two different hot springs, the Hayashida and the Iodani onsens. The sulfur-rich water can appear to be a milky blue color.

Japan Regions

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Hokkaido

Kyushu

Honshu

Shikoku

Southern Islands

Okinawa

Tohoku

Kirishima Itineraries

All Itineraries

Authentic Japanese Culture on the Islands of Kyushu and Shikoku

Experience a side of Japan that very few visitors get to see on this exciting two-week adventure through Kyushu and Shikoku. Enjoy breathtaking hikes in some truly beautiful places, marvel at spectacular scenery and soak up the local culture in these two unique, remote areas of Japan.

Interests Amazing Landscapes, Heritage

Destinations Japan

Duration: 16 days, 15 nights
Price Per Person: From $65,400

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Sacred Scenic Sites of Japan

Spend 14 luxurious days traveling between Japan’s most sacred sites, taking in the incredible natural beauty en route. You’ll walk along Kyoto’s famed Philosopher’s Path, hike one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and visit famed castles and shrines, while staying in some of Japan’s most luxury hotels.

Interests Spirituality, Amazing Landscapes

Destinations Japan

Duration: 14 days, 13 nights
Price Per Person: From $42,000

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Wasure no sato Gajoen

Kirishima, Japan

Encased in luxuriously rich forest and crisply flowing rivers, this incredible hotel is the epitome of elegant serenity. Set in one of the most naturally exquisite prefectures of Japan, this area is an adventurer’s dream, complete with ocean, forest and ancient volcano remains. The perfect placement of traditionally designed cottages - inclusive of modern amenities - within lush and undisturbed greenery makes this destination a superb oasis of tranquility. Guests have the option to stay in a choice of ten...

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Tenku no Mori

Kirishima, Japan

This luxury resort is unlike most Japanese hotels. Set amidst lush, natural surroundings, Tenku no Mori exudes a classical boutique inn kind of atmosphere, and with only five rooms, it lives up to its self-proclamation of a ‘private resort’. Guests can enjoy their meals in private dining rooms, where they’ll be served scrumptious local foods that include organic vegetables and free-range meat. Lovers of the great outdoors will be happy here, with 360-degree panoramas of the surrounding majestic mountains - perfect for those who are into hiking and/or photography. The hotel, despite its off-the-beaten-track feel, is located only a 30-minute drive from the Kagoshima airport.

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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

Travelogues

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