Volcanic Peaks, Hot Springs, and Hidden Islands
- Location: Nagasaki and Kumamoto Prefectures (Kyushu)
- Best For: Volcano trekkers, hot spring lovers, history enthusiasts, island explorers
- Best Season:
- Spring (March–May): Azalea blooms on Mt. Unzen, pleasant hiking weather
- Summer (June–August): Best for island hopping and coastal adventures
- Autumn (September–November): Vivid fall foliage in Unzen’s mountains
- Winter (December–February): Steamy onsen baths and serene volcanic landscapes
Why Unzen-Amakusa Will Captivate You
Unzen-Amakusa National Park (雲仙天草国立公園) includes one of Japan’s first designated national park areas (1934) and is famous for its volcanic hot springs, dramatic mountain landscapes, and historic Christian heritage.
The park is divided into two distinct areas:
- Unzen Area – A volcanic wonderland, home to steaming fumaroles, scenic mountain trails, and one of Kyushu’s best hot spring towns.
- Amakusa Islands – A hidden coastal paradise, dotted with secluded beaches, stunning viewpoints, and a fascinating history of Japan’s “Hidden Christians”.
Must-See Wonders in Unzen-Amakusa
Unzen’s Volcanic Heart: Trails, Fumaroles & Hot Springs
- Mt. Unzen (Fugen-dake, 1,359m): A historic volcano, famous for its past eruptions and stunning summit views.
- Unzen Jigoku (Unzen Hell): A surreal landscape of steaming sulfur vents and bubbling hot springs.
- Nita Pass: A scenic hiking trail, spectacular in spring with pink azaleas and in autumn with golden foliage.
Soaking in Serenity: Unzen’s Hot Springs
- Unzen Onsen: One of Kyushu’s oldest and most famous hot spring towns, known for its naturally acidic, milky-white waters.
- Obama Onsen: A seaside hot spring resort featuring Japan’s hottest natural footbath (105°C steam vent pools!).
- Shimabara Onsen: Offers relaxing seaside onsens with views of the Ariake Sea.
Amakusa’s Hidden Shores: Islands of Solitude
- Shimoshima Island: The largest Amakusa island, with stunning coastal cliffs and hidden coves.
- Sakitsu Village: A UNESCO-listed Hidden Christian settlement, home to the historic Sakitsu Church.
- Tomioka Castle Ruins: Offers panoramic island views and a glimpse into Amakusa’s samurai past.
Into the Blue: Amakusa’s Marine Wildlife Adventures
- Dolphin Watching in Amakusa: One of Japan’s best places to see wild bottlenose dolphins up close.
- Kayaking & Snorkeling: Explore Amakusa’s crystal-clear waters and secret sea caves.
- Amakusa Five Bridges: A scenic drive across five stunning bridges, connecting the islands.
Respecting Nature: Sustainable Travel in Unzen-Amakusa
Respecting the Land
- Stay on designated trails in Unzen’s volcanic zones, the area is fragile and still geothermally active.
- Use local tour operators for dolphin watching to support ethical wildlife tourism.
- Respect the local Christian heritage sites, many are still active places of worship.
Preserving the Wild
- Amakusa’s dolphin population is carefully monitored to prevent over-tourism.
- Unzen’s forests are a haven for native bird species, including the Japanese Paradise Flycatcher and varied thrushes found in Kyushu’s montane woodlands.
Leaving No Trace
- Unzen Onsen’s geothermal energy is used sustainably, heating local ryokan and bathhouses.
- Amakusa’s eco-tourism initiatives help preserve the islands’ marine biodiversity.
Getting to Unzen-Amakusa: Paths to Discovery
Unveiling Unzen-Amakusa: Your Path
- To Unzen Onsen:
- From Nagasaki: Bus from Nagasaki Station to Unzen Onsen (2 hrs)
- From Kumamoto: Take a ferry to Shimabara Port (30–60 min), then a local bus to Unzen Onsen (approx. 45 min). Total travel time: about 1.5–2 hrs.
- To Amakusa Islands:
- From Kumamoto: Take a train to Misumi Station (1 hr), then a ferry to Matsushima Port in Amakusa (40–60 min).
- From Nagasaki: Drive via Isahaya and Route 57 to reach the Amakusa Islands (approx. 2.5–3 hrs). There is currently no direct ferry route from Nagasaki to Amakusa.
Resting in the Heart of Kyushu: Where to Stay in Unzen-Amakusa
- Unzen Kyushu Hotel: A luxury onsen resort with stunning mountain views.
- Obama Onsen Seaside Hotel: Offers open-air hot springs facing the sea.
- Amakusa Guesthouse Perch: A charming seaside retreat with ocean views.
- Hotel Alegria Gardens Amakusa: A seaside resort with ocean-view baths and local seafood dining, located in central Amakusa.
Your Journey Through Unzen-Amakusa Awaits
Local Secrets: Tips from Those Who Know Unzen-Amakusa
- For the best dolphin watching, visit Amakusa from March to October.
- Hike Nita Pass at sunrise for a surreal, mist-covered mountain view.
- Try the natural steam baths at Obama Onsen, the locals cook eggs and vegetables in the hot spring vents!
Taste of Unzen-Amakusa: Culinary Delights from Land & Sea
- Amakusa Seafood Donburi: A bowl of fresh sashimi from the local waters.
- Unzen Milk Pudding: A famous local dessert made with rich Kyushu milk.
- Obama Champon: A hearty noodle dish with fresh seafood from the Ariake Sea.
Begin Your Unzen-Amakusa Adventure
Unzen-Amakusa National Park is a rare blend of volcanic landscapes, ocean adventures, and hidden history. Whether you’re soaking in steaming hot springs, hiking past active fumaroles, or watching wild dolphins play in Amakusa’s waters, this park offers a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the essence of Kyushu’s untamed beauty.
Quiet Places Worth Exploring
- Kyushu – Misty mountains, island coastlines, and hot springs where history lingers in the steam.
- Nature Escapes in Japan – Explore volcanic trails, sacred waters, and wild places shaped by earth and ocean.
- Discover Japan by Region – Find your path across Japan’s hidden corners, from mountain summits to quiet shores.
- Discover Japan Off The Map – Browse all our journeys and guideposts across mountains, villages, and beyond.
