- Address: 4F, Kumamoto Regional Joint Government Building B, Kasuga 2-10-1, Nishi Ward, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture 860-0047
- Area: 548 square meters. km
- Foundation date: March 16, 1934
- Phone: 096-322-2412
- Fax: 096-322-2447
Kirishima-Yaku is a national park located on one of the largest islands in Japan . The relief of the reserve is very diverse, so the first thing it attracts tourists is the picturesque views. In addition, Kirishima-Yaku is accompanied by a beautiful legend about a god descended from heaven in these places.
What to see?
The national park is located in the southern part of the third largest island in Japan - Kyushu. For the first time the reserve opened its gates to visitors on March 16, 1934. On the territory of Kirishima-Yaku there are many interesting and unique natural objects.
First of all it is necessary to say about the volcanic group of Kirishima, consisting of 23 volcanoes . Kirishima has two peaks, attracting attention with silvery smoke coming from them. In these places you can always see pilgrims. One of the peaks, Takatihonomine, is considered the site of the descent of the god Ninigi no Mikoto from heaven. In memory of this in the VII century on the slope was built the temple of Kirishima Jinja. He is one of the most revered in Japan. The park got its name in honor of the active volcano of the same name, which erupted 58 times since the 13th century. Its height is almost 1700 m.
Next to Kirishima are two peninsulas: Satsuma and Osumi. They are divided by the Gulf of Kagoshima. Right in the bay is the main city of the island of Kyushu. It also has the name Kagoshima. Tourists are very fond of visiting it, as opposite there is a small island with an active volcano - Sakurajima. Therefore, before the guests of the city a beautiful spectacle opens.
Satsumi peninsula is famous for the hot source of Ibusuki , which is framed by beaches of black sand. The favorite entertainment of tourists is to dig into the sand, leaving only the head outside. Those who visit this place for the first time may be surprised at what they saw: black sand, heads sticking out of it and colorful umbrellas that protect them from the sun's rays.
In 60 kilometers from the Osumi peninsula there is the island of Yakushima, which is famous for its "inhabitants". There are not many places on the earth where you can see the cedar forest with trees that are 200, 300 or 500 years old. But the most important wealth of these places is the cedars of 1000 years old. Tourists are happy to guide tourists to them.
The park has a huge area, so it is most convenient to travel by car. In Kirishima-Yaku there are many quality roads that will lead you to the most interesting places.
How to get there?
In order to get to the national park, it is necessary to take the train to JR Kirishima Jingu station in Kirishima on the island of Kyushu. The road will be 35 minutes, to JR Kirishima Onsen station. The ticket price for this segment is $ 4.25. Then you need to change to a red branch and get to Kagoshima Airport . This part of the journey will cost about $ 12. After that, the pointers will be directed to Kirishima-Yak.