1
Unzen Jigoku (Unzen Hell)

Experience the pulse of the Earth with all five senses, surrounded by volcanic fumes and scents.

"Jigoku" (Hell) refers to an area covered in hot spring mud (rock that has altered and turned into clay). The sight of steam and heat blowing out from the depths of the earth, with the scent of sulfur covering everything, is truly like hell itself.
In Unzen Jigoku, there are about 30 large and small hells, including "Daikyokan Jigoku" (Great Screaming Hell), where the fumarolic activity is most intense, as well as "Oito Jigoku" and "Suzume Jigoku," and you can enjoy a tour of the hells while experiencing the geothermal heat along the walking paths. It is said that the hells themselves are still moving through the hot spring town over thousands of years, and a new hell was even discovered in 2020. Furthermore, the nighttime tour of the hells, which are illuminated, is fantastical and well worth seeing.

You must try the piping hot hot spring eggs steamed in the steam of hell.

At the Unzen Jigoku Kobo located near Oito Jigoku, they sell hot spring eggs steamed using the steam from the hells. The yolks are rich, the whites are firm, and they are steamed to perfection, with as many as 2,000 sold in a single day during peak seasons.

Unzen Jigoku is also known as a former site of Christian martyrdom, and today a martyrdom monument and a cross have been erected there. Why not take the opportunity to touch upon the history of Unzen along with the wild vitality of the earth?

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At Unzen Jigoku, you can feel the geothermal heat even through the tiles laid on the walking paths. Because of the warmth, it has become a resting place for local cats, and you will see many of them relaxing there. It might be heaven rather than hell for the cats.

Unzen Jigoku

• 320 Unzen, Obama-cho, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 2-minute walk from KAI Unzen
• Open for viewing *Unzen Jigoku Kobo is open from 10:00 to 16:00
• Open every day
• Free
• 0957-73-3434 (Unzen Onsen Tourist Information Office)
• None

2
Nita Pass

Panoramic views in every direction! Enjoy the rich nature of the four seasons from the ropeway.

In spring, the mountainsides are dyed pink with Miyama Kirishima (a type of azalea); in summer, they are a dazzling, vivid green; in autumn, they are covered in bright red fall foliage; and in winter, they are adorned with sparkling rime ice. Located in the center of the Shimabara Peninsula, Nita Pass delights visitors with its seasonal expressions.

If you want to enjoy a superb view with ease, we recommend the ropeway, which offers a 360-degree aerial walk. The ropeway station is located near the parking lot of the First Observation Point and connects to the summit of Mt. Myoken. On clear days from autumn to winter, you can see not only the Ariake Sea but, if you are lucky, even the Amakusa Islands.

Hiking and driving are also recommended, allowing you to enjoy nature at your own pace.

Nita Pass is also popular as a trekking course. When attempting to climb, it is best to park your car at the "Ikenohara Enchi" parking lot, where the trailheads for Mt. Fugen and Mt. Myoken are located, and set off from there. It is also recommended to combine walking and the ropeway while considering your physical stamina.
In addition, a 11.3 km long skyline road called the "Nita Pass Circular Road" (100 yen environmental cooperation fee required) leads from the Unzen Onsen town, offering a grand panorama from your car window of the Shimabara city area, the Ariake Sea, and even the mountain ranges of Aso on the opposite shore.
With ropeways, hiking, and driving, there are various ways to enjoy it. Why not incorporate it into your plans according to your travel style?

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During the autumn foliage season, chronic traffic congestion occurs, making it a particularly crowded time. As a solution, a pre-booking service for driving on the Nita Pass Circular Road has been in operation since 2022. Be sure to check the official Unzen Tourism Bureau website in advance.

Nita Pass

• 551 Unzen, Obama-cho, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 65 minutes by car from JR Isahaya Station, approx. 15 minutes by car from KAI Unzen
• About 20 minutes by taxi from Unzen Onsen town, which is a short walk from the "Unzen" bus stop (take a bus from JR Isahaya Station)
  
• Ropeway first departure 8:51– (Ticket sales until 17:00; until 16:50 from 11/1 to 3/31)
• In case of stormy weather (Service may be suspended for inspections, etc. Please check the Unzen Ropeway website)
• Environmental cooperation fee from 100 yen. Ropeway one-way 830 yen, round-trip 1,500 yen
  
• 0957-73-3572 (Unzen Ropeway), 0957-73-3434 (Unzen Tourism Association)
• Free
• Nita Pass Circular Road is open from 8:00 to 18:00 (downbound gate locked at 18:45) from April to October, and 8:00 to 17:00 (downbound gate locked at 17:45) from November to March
  Please check https://unzen-ropeway.com for details on the Unzen Ropeway.

3
Onsen Shrine

The head shrine of the "Shimen-gu," the general guardian of Kyushu, located in the hot spring town.

Established about 1,300 years ago by Emperor Monmu as a shrine to enshrine the guardian deity of Kyushu. It is read as "Unzen-jinja" based on the history that the characters for hot spring (onsen) were once pronounced "unzen".
Before the issuance of the Shinto and Buddhism Separation Order in the Meiji era, it was known as "Shimen-gu," and it is still affectionately known locally as "Oshimen-san." It is said that there are currently more than 25 shrines with origins in Shimen-gu, mainly on the Shimabara Peninsula, and this Unzen Shrine in the Unzen Onsen town is the head shrine.

In the precincts, there is also the "Married Persimmon Tree," which is said to bring blessings for romantic fulfillment and prosperity of descendants.

There are various highlights within the shrine grounds. Among them, what many worshippers aim to see are the "Meoto-gaki" (husband and wife persimmon trees), two persimmon trees standing quietly side by side next to the shrine building. They are said to bring blessings for romantic fulfillment and prosperity of descendants, and due to their location next to the Unzen Hell, many people visit to pray while strolling through the hot spring town.

Furthermore, there is the "Fountain of Happiness" with a heart-shaped stone, the "Shimentei" rest area, and the "Yomoan" tea house where you can enjoy a cup of tea. A stroll after visiting the shrine is sure to be a pleasant time.

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Located right next to Unzen Jigoku, the scent of sulfur even drifts into the temple grounds. The quiet precincts, far removed from the hustle and bustle, will calm your mind and body. Please be sure to stop by while strolling through the hot spring town.

Onsen Shrine

• 319 Unzen, Obama-cho, Unzen-shi, Nagasaki Prefecture MAP
• About a 1-minute walk from KAI Unzen
• Free admission
• Open every day
• Free
• 0957-73-3533
• Paid

4
Chijiwa Coast

A panoramic view up to Mount Fugen. Admire the scenic coastline.

This coastline along Tachibana Bay was selected as one of the "100 Best Natural Sites in Japan," chosen by the Forest Culture Association and The Asahi Shimbun Company through a public call for entries in 1982. The coastline stretches in a bow shape for approximately 2km, and you can look down upon its beautiful natural terrain from the Chijiwa Observatory. Simply gazing at the scenic landscape makes you feel liberated, and you might even lose track of time.
You can also see the "Chijiwa Fault," a highlight of the "Shimabara Peninsula UNESCO Global Geopark." The Chijiwa Fault is an active fault that is still subsiding at a rate of approximately 1.5mm per year. It is a place that allows you to feel the dynamism of the earth brought about by active volcanoes.

Ebisu, the guardian deity of the sea, enshrined on the sea.

Fukuishi Park appears as you head south along the coastline from the Chijiwa Observatory. There are two large rocks here, with an Ebisu statue enshrined on one as a guardian deity of the sea, and a small torii gate and shrine on the other. Their appearance, standing against the backdrop of the sea, is very mystical. Why not pay a visit to see Ebisu, who is prayed to for prosperous business and good fortune?

The beauty of the coast at dusk, when the sky is dyed in a gradation from blue to orange, is also exceptional. You can enjoy a romantic atmosphere that is different from the daytime.

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Currently, Chijiwa Beach is closed to swimming as the sandy beach has decreased due to the tides.

Chijiwa Coast

• Chijiwa-cho, Unzen-shi, Nagasaki Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 22 minutes by car from KAI Unzen
• 0957-37-2254 (Chijiwa Tourist Center)
• Free (use Chijiwa Observatory)

5
Unzen Vidro Museum

Be captivated by the many gorgeous and brilliant glass works.

Nagasaki is said to be the birthplace of modern Japanese glass. During the period of national isolation, glass introduced to Nagasaki from Portugal was called "vidro," the Portuguese word for glass, and was highly prized.
The Unzen Vidro Museum houses a collection of approximately 300 pieces, including Edo-period blown glass, 19th-century Bohemian glass, and oil lamps. The many glittering exhibits are so beautiful that you will be captivated by each one. They are displayed in a way that makes it easy to understand the characteristics of each era and country, allowing you to appreciate them at your leisure.

Stylish and modern. It also introduces the history and culture of Unzen in the past.

Unzen gained popularity as a summer retreat for foreigners from the Meiji era through the early Showa era. There is an exhibition room that recreates the table settings of the Unzen Kanko Hotel, a wooden hotel built during that time that still exists today. The museum features numerous valuable works and materials, including photographs of the Western-style hotels that once lined the area and the luxurious tableware used at the time, conveying the international history of Unzen to the present day.

In addition, there is an extensive collection of ceramics, lacquerware, paintings, and more. Seasonal special exhibitions are also held. It is a museum well worth visiting, featuring solo exhibitions by local artists as well as up-and-coming creators.

Local
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This art museum features many works with history and stories, allowing you to feel not only the beauty of glass but also the richness of culture and art. Because it is quiet and allows for a leisurely viewing experience, you can enjoy the works to your heart's content.

Unzen Vidro Museum

• 320 Unzen, Obama-cho, Unzen-shi, Nagasaki Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 7-minute walk from KAI Unzen
• 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last admission 4:40 PM)
• Wednesdays, Year-end and New Year holidays
• Adults 900 yen, junior high and high school students 500 yen, elementary school students 300 yen, infants free
  Glassmaking experience from 1,700 yen (varies by menu)
• 0957-73-3133
• Free
• Glass-making experiences can be booked upon arrival on the day. However, reservations are prioritized (accepted by phone).

6
Iwato Shrine / Iwato Suijin

Like another world. A mysterious shrine located in a cave in the forest.

Nestled in a nature-rich area where cedar and cypress trees over 400 years old stand tall. The main hall is situated in front of a giant rock cave, which is said to be the object of worship itself. Once you pass through the first torii gate, the atmosphere feels as if you have entered another world. The approach, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and towering trees, is truly spiritual. Many people are drawn to visit by this unique atmosphere.

It takes about 5 minutes on foot to reach the main hall. While there are some areas with stairs and slopes, there are also unpaved paths with exposed tree roots. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes, such as sneakers.

Natural blessings gushing forth from Mount Unzen

On the west side of the main hall is a small waterfall basin, which is said to be one of the sources of the Saigo River, a clear stream that flows through Unzen. This entire area is a water-source forest.
Furthermore, near the entrance to the approach, there is a water-drawing spot for the Iwato Suijin. The water, a gift from Mount Unzen, gushes forth endlessly and is so clear that you can see the bottom of the stream. You can draw water directly from the stream, and it is frequently used by locals.

Enveloped in a sacred atmosphere, Iwato Shrine is a place where a divine realm spreads across the area. The time spent embraced by the silent forest will surely be a highlight of your trip.

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The day after it rains, the trees are damp and the water volume increases, creating an even more mystical atmosphere. However, since there is a high possibility that the ground will be slippery on rainy days, we recommend that you check the weather before visiting.

Iwato Shrine / Iwato Suijin

• 2322 Saigomachi Saigo, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 24 minutes by car from KAI Unzen
• Free admission
• Open every day
• Free
• 0957-38-3111 (Unzen City Tourism and Products Division)
• Free

7
Hara Castle Ruins

Registered as a World Cultural Heritage site. The final site of the Shimabara-Amakusa Rebellion

This is the site of the castle that served as the main battlefield for the Shimabara-Amakusa Rebellion (Shimabara Rebellion), which broke out in 1637 (the 14th year of the Kanei era). Amakusa Shiro, who was said to be only 16 years old at the time, along with approximately 37,000 peasants, holed up in Hara Castle to resist the shogunate's policies, such as the suppression of Christianity. About three months later, the rebel army was defeated, and the shogunate army thoroughly destroyed the castle. As a result, very little of Hara Castle's original form remains today.

Although only the ruins remain today, the site features a statue of Amakusa Shiro in prayer and his grave, conveying the tragic history of that time to the present day.

An overwhelming sense of openness with views extending to the Amakusa islands on the opposite shore

Built on a hill, Hara Castle had a perimeter of about 4 km and was surrounded on three sides by the Ariake Sea, making it feared as an impregnable natural fortress. While the castle itself is gone, the view across the sea toward Amakusa must surely be the same as it was back then.

For those who wish to learn more about the history of the Hara Castle ruins, guided tours are available. There is also the "Hara Castle Ruins VR," which you can experience on your own smartphone, featuring full CG footage that recreates the appearance of the castle when it was built and during the Shimabara-Amakusa Rebellion. It is one of the places that still speaks to the intensity of those days, ensuring that the tragic history of the suppression of Christianity is not forgotten.

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It is also known as a place with beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and is nicknamed "Higurashi Castle" (Sunset Castle).

Hara Castle Ruins

• Otsu, Minami-Arima-cho, Minamishimabara City, Nagasaki Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 30 minutes by car from KAI Unzen
• Free to visit
• Open every day
• Free
• 0957-65-6333 (Minamishimabara Himawari Tourism Association)
• Free (use the parking lot for "Hara-jo Onsen Masago" or the dedicated parking lot for Hara Castle Ruins along National Route 251)
• Free rental of tablet devices for a VR experience is available at the Hara Castle Ruins Ninomaru Information Center. Hara Castle Ruins Ninomaru Information Center: 9:30–16:30; Tablet rental: 9:30–16:00

8
Shimabara Castle

A Shimabara landmark featuring a castle tower that stands out against the blue sky and beautiful castle walls

The castle was built by the feudal lord Matsukura Shigemasa over a period of about seven years, starting in 1618 (the 4th year of the Genna era). Although it was unfortunately dismantled during the Meiji period, the long-held wish of the people of Shimabara was fulfilled, and the castle keep was restored in 1964 (the 39th year of the Showa era).
It is a magnificent castle that incorporates the architectural style of the Azuchi-Momoyama period, with a five-story white-plastered keep at its core and turrets placed at key points. The outer wall is a rectangle with a perimeter of about 4 km, surrounded by fences. The beauty of Shimabara Castle, especially when viewed from the Ote-gomon Gate ruins in the southeast, is exceptional, with the white five-story keep standing out beautifully against the blue sky.

Inside the castle, there are also museums and memorial halls that convey the history and culture of Shimabara

From the top floor of the keep, you can look out over the Ariake Sea, and on clear days, even as far as Kumamoto and Amakusa. The first to third floors serve as exhibition rooms, where you can trace the history of the Shimabara Domain through items such as the feudal lord's armor, swords, and historical materials related to Christianity.

The Tourism Reconstruction Memorial Hall uses videos and other media to introduce the progression of the volcanic activity of Mount Unzen, as well as the history, culture, and tourist attractions of Shimabara. Inside the castle grounds, there is also the Seibo Memorial Hall, which exhibits representative works by Seibo Kitamura, a sculptor from the Shimabara Peninsula known as the creator of the Nagasaki Peace Statue, and the Folk Tools Museum, which displays numerous folk tools from the Meiji to Showa periods.

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Shimabara Castle celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2024. The view from the castle keep is also beautiful, and you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Shimabara's historic streets.

Shimabara Castle

• 1-1183-1 Jonai, Shimabara City, Nagasaki Prefecture MAP
• Approximately 36 minutes by car from KAI Unzen
• 9:00–17:30 (Last admission 17:00)
• Open every day
• Admission: 700 yen for adults, 350 yen for elementary, junior high, and high school students (includes entry to the Castle Tower, Tourism Restoration Memorial Hall, and Seibo Memorial Hall)
• 0957-62-4766
• Paid