Photo of Kirishima

About Kirishima

Set on the island of Kyushu, right at Japan's most south-westerly tip, Kirishima is a small city by Japanese standards. Formed in 2005 when Kokubu merged with the towns of Fukuyama, Hayato, the historic area of Kirishima, Makizono, Mizobe, and Yogokawa, it’s a relatively new community tucked amidst striking natural landscapes. Accommodation options include private villas as well as luxury hotels, but the best places to stay in Kirishima are hidden in the verdant forests which surround the city.

Best-known for the mountainous Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park, an area of spectacular natural beauty dominated by volcanoes and crater lakes, this is a hugely popular destination for outdoorsy explorers. Spend your days hiking, horse riding and mountain biking in the hills, clamber to the top of Mount Karakuni, or unwind in hot spring pools and cooling rivers. Maru Falls and Ryoman Falls are particularly impressive, as are views of Mount Sakurajima from the Takatoge Pass, or birdwatching excursions around the Miike Crater Lake.

For a sense of the region’s ancient cultural roots, look to the crimson Kirishima-jingu Shrine, at the foot of Mount Takachikho-no-Mine. Originally constructed in 540, the shrine was rebuilt in 1715; there are fascinating layers of history to discover. Having explored the area, retreat to one of the best places to stay in Kirishima for delicious cuisine, marvellous views and restorative spa treatments.

The Best Places to Stay in Kirishima

For a Luxurious Escape

  • Tenku No Mori is a breathtaking retreat nestled deep in Kirishima's forests. It offers spacious wooden villas with wonderful views, minimalist furnishings and private hot spring baths. Tuck into splendid organic cuisine crafted from garden-grown vegetables, enjoy rejuvenating treatments in the spa, and take restorative river walks. For couples, friends or families in serach of blissful luxury.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly into Tokyo's Haneda Airport or Narita Airport to catch a connecting flight to Kagoshima Airport. Travel 20 minutes to your hotel by bus or taxi. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up.
  • You may want to drive if you're exploring Kyushu independently. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn for the warmest weather, with temperatures of 23 - 28°C. September is cooler and quieter.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Kirishima

Best Hotels in Kirishima

  • Tenku no Mori Kirishima (Makizono-cho) 6 rooms from $1061

    Country Escape  -  Tenku no Mori, literally translated as "heaven in the sky", enjoys a stunning rural location for couples, friends or families
    Romantic Break  -  A peaceful atmosphere, beautiful surroundings and excellent organic cuisine: ideal for a romantic getaway
    Golf  -  Take a shuttle to one of two excellent nearby golf courses - one 18-hole and one 9-hole course
    Trekking  -  Trek up Mount Karakuni for fabulous views, or take guided river and mushroom-picking walks
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux, Kiwi Collection

    The stunning Tenku no Mori enjoys a splendid forested location overlooking the mountains of Kagoshima. Feel rejuvenated in their spacious and private wooden villas, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering superb views. Wonderful cuisine served using their own produce! A first-class rural escape. See More

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