Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine)
Day HikeKyushu(Miyazaki)
EasyDistance
6 km
Elevation Gain
600m
Max Elevation
1574m
Duration
4h
Kyushu(Miyazaki)
EasyDistance
6 km
Elevation Gain
600m
Max Elevation
1574m
Duration
4h
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Mythical peak where the gods descended, with a bronze spear at the summit.
Takachiho-no-mine (1,574m) is the sacred peak of the Kirishima volcanic range in southern Kyushu, where according to Japanese mythology the god Ninigi descended from heaven. The dramatic trail climbs through volcanic scoria and past steaming craters to a summit crowned by the legendary Ama-no-Sakahoko (Heavenly Reversed Halberd). Views stretch across the volcanic landscape to Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay.
March to November, azaleas in May-June
Legendary Ama-no-Sakahoko at summit; Active volcanic landscape with craters; Mythological birthplace of Japan; Views of Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay; Kirishima Shrine at the base
Take the JR Nippo Line to Kirishima-Jingu Station, then a bus or taxi to the Takachihogawara trailhead (about 30 minutes). By car, use the Miyazaki Expressway to Takahara IC. Parking available at Takachihogawara.
Access may be restricted due to volcanic activity—check Kirishima volcanic alert level before visiting. The scoria slope is very steep and loose, requiring careful footing. Strong winds and poor visibility are common near the summit. No water sources on the trail. Avoid during volcanic gas emissions.
Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) is rated as easy difficulty.
Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) is 6 km long.
The elevation gain on Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) is 600 meters.
Hiking Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) typically takes about 4 hours.
The best season to hike Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) is March to November, azaleas in May-June.
Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) is located in Miyazaki, Kyushu region of Japan.
Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) is a day_hike trail.
Warnings for Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine): Access may be restricted due to volcanic activity—check Kirishima volcanic alert level before visiting. The scoria slope is very steep and loose, requiring careful footing. Strong winds and poor visibility are common near the summit. No water sources on the trail. Avoid during volcanic gas emissions..
Access information for Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine): Take the JR Nippo Line to Kirishima-Jingu Station, then a bus or taxi to the Takachihogawara trailhead (about 30 minutes). By car, use the Miyazaki Expressway to Takahara IC. Parking available at Takachihogawara..
The maximum elevation on Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) is 1574 meters.
Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) is rated easy, making it accessible for hikers of that level.
For Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine), proper hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Check warnings: Access may be restricted due to volcanic activity—check Kirishima volcanic alert level before visiting. The scoria slope is very steep and loose, requiring careful footing. Strong winds and poor visibility are common near the summit. No water sources on the trail. Avoid during volcanic gas emissions..
Highlights of Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) include: Legendary Ama-no-Sakahoko at summit; Active volcanic landscape with craters; Mythological birthplace of Japan; Views of Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay; Kirishima Shrine at the base.
Access to Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine): Take the JR Nippo Line to Kirishima-Jingu Station, then a bus or taxi to the Takachihogawara trailhead (about 30 minutes). By car, use the Miyazaki Expressway to Takahara IC. Parking available at Takachihogawara..
The best season for Mt. Kirishima (Takachiho-no-mine) is March to November, azaleas in May-June. Check conditions before hiking in winter.