Mount Fugen (Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Mount Fugen is one of the peaks of the Unzen volcano group in Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture, and is located within Unzen-Amakusa National Park. With an elevation of approximately 1,359m (varies depending on the peak), it, along with the nearby Mount Heisei-Shinzan, is known for its unique topography and landscape formed by volcanic activity.

Historically, volcanic activity since 1990 has caused a lava dome (Heisei Shinzan) to grow, resulting in large-scale eruptions accompanied by pyroclastic flows and debris flows, causing extensive damage to the surrounding area. For this reason, it has attracted attention from the perspective of disaster prevention, and is also an important target for volcanological observation.

Its attractions include the fumaroles (hell), hot springs, the dynamic landscape created by the volcano, and, if the weather is good, the view of the Ariake Sea, the Shimabara Peninsula, and the peaks of Unzen in the distance. It is also popular as a tourist destination that can be enjoyed in combination with the hot springs.

Highlights

• View of Heisei Shinzan: The contrast between the new mountain body (Heisei Shinzan) created by the eruption in the 1990s and Mt. Fugen is breathtaking.
• Unzen Jigoku (hot spring area): A walking trail where you can see steam and hot mud. You can also enjoy geothermal foot baths and the atmosphere of a hot spring town.
• Mt. Fugen Climbing Course: The volcanic landscape from the hiking trail, the contrast between the forest zone and the volcanic gravel. There are observation points in various places, and there are many photo spots.
• Disaster Memorial Facility: There is a museum and exhibition facility (related to the Unzen-Fugendake disaster) that conveys the damage caused by the eruption of Mount Unzen-Fugendake, where you can learn about the eruption and disaster prevention.
• Seasonal scenery: Fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and winter scenery create a rich seasonal landscape. On foggy days, the scenery becomes fantastical.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• The nearest major station is Isahaya Station on the JR Nagasaki Main Line heading towards Shimabara. From Isahaya Station, take a bus towards Unzen Onsen.
• Bus: Take the local bus from Isahaya Station to Unzen Onsen (takes about 60-90 minutes, with transfers depending on the bus). Direct express buses and sightseeing buses also operate from Nagasaki and Saga.
• By car: Access via the Isahaya IC on the Nagasaki Expressway or via national and prefectural roads from the Nagasaki direction. It's about a 50-minute drive from Isahaya, and can also be accessed from Shimabara and Unzen. Parking is available around Unzen Onsen Town and Jigoku.
• Note: In winter, roads may be frozen or snowy. Public transportation may be less frequent at certain times, so please check the timetable in advance.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Walking around Unzen Jigoku and sightseeing in the hot spring town: 1.5 to 3 hours
• A short hike to the main observation point of Mt. Fugen (round trip): 2-3 hours
• Full-scale climbing to the summit or around Mt. Fugen: Half a day to a full day (depending on stamina and route)
• If you're staying at a hot spring inn and relaxing: 2 days and 1 night (we recommend a timetable that allows for plenty of time for hot springs and walking around).

Nearby spots

• Unzen Onsen Town: Ryokan (Japanese inns), day spas, foot baths, etc. You can fully enjoy the hot spring atmosphere.
• Museums such as the Unzen-Fugen Disaster Memorial Museum: a place to learn about records of eruptions and disaster prevention.
• Shimabara Peninsula (Shimabara Castle, etc.): You can also enjoy historical sightseeing by car.
• Obama Onsen (Obama Onsen): Another popular hot spring resort near Unzen. This seaside hot spring is known for its foot baths and steaming hot springs.
• Hiking trails around Mount Unzen: Visit the surrounding nature trails and observation decks.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Check volcanic activity information: The area around Mount Fugen is subject to volcanic activity, so be sure to check the eruption warnings, evacuation information, and entry restrictions of the Japan Meteorological Agency, Nagasaki Prefecture, and Unzen City in advance. Never enter restricted areas.
• Fumarole gases and sulfur smell: There are areas around Jigoku where the fumarole gases (volcanic gases) are strong. People with weak respiratory systems and young children should be careful, and please bring a mask if necessary.
• Climbing equipment: Please prepare trekking shoes, rain gear, cold weather gear, water, and snacks in case of sudden changes in weather and poor footing. It is also a good idea to bring a portable toilet and a flashlight.
• Busy periods: The hot spring town and parking lots will be crowded during the spring tourist season, Golden Week, autumn foliage season, and consecutive holidays. We recommend leaving early and making accommodation reservations.
• Manners: To protect the environment, please take your trash with you and do not disturb the hiking trails or plants. When using the hot springs, please follow the bath rules (such as pouring water over yourself and handling towels).
• Mobile phone and transportation information: There are some mountainous areas where you won't have mobile phone reception. Buses are limited, so be sure to check the return trip timetable.

(Reference) It's a good idea to check the official information from the Unzen City Tourism Association, Nagasaki Prefecture, and the Japan Meteorological Agency before visiting. Safety comes first, so enjoy the hot springs and volcanic scenery.