Things To Do
in Unzen
Unzen is a small volcanic resort area on the Shimabara Peninsula in Nagasaki Prefecture, famous for its steaming fumaroles, sulfurous “jigoku” (hell) landscapes and therapeutic onsen. The town center around Unzen Onsen offers classic ryokan stays, hot-spring baths, and narrow streets with traditional shops. Surrounding the town are hiking trails, volcanic peaks such as Mt. Fugen and the relatively recent Heisei Shinzan, plus views across Ariake Bay.
It’s a quiet, nature-focused destination popular with domestic travelers and outdoor lovers seeking both relaxation and geologic spectacle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Unzen Onsen area, where you can take in the scenic views and the soothing sounds of nature. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local ryokan, savoring regional specialties like grilled fish and miso soup. After breakfast, stroll through the historic streets, taking note of the charming architecture and cultural landmarks.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Unzen Hot Springs Museum, where you can learn about the history and significance of the region's geothermal activity. Afterward, explore the nearby Shimabara Castle, with its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens. Take some time to relax in one of the many public baths that make this area famous.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a kaiseki dinner at a renowned local restaurant, where each dish is a work of art. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while sampling seasonal ingredients and exquisite flavors that reflect the region's culinary heritage. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the streets, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and perhaps stopping for a warm cup of green tea.
Start your day with an energizing hike in Unzen National Park, where the fresh air and stunning landscapes await you. Choose a scenic trail that leads you through lush forests and volcanic terrain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that inhabits this beautiful area.
After a refreshing morning hike, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, listening to the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Continue exploring the park by visiting the famous hot steam vents, known as 'Jigoku', where you can see steam rising from the ground and feel the heat emanating from the earth. Capture photographs of the unique geological features and the vibrant flora that thrives in this unique environment.
Return from your adventure to unwind at one of Unzen's charming onsens, soaking in the rejuvenating mineral waters. As night falls, enjoy a casual dinner at a local izakaya, where you can try a variety of small dishes paired with local sake. Share stories about your day with fellow travelers and locals, enjoying the warm and inviting atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Night at a mid-range ryokan (with dinner) | $100-220 |
| 🚌Local bus fare / short taxi ride | $2-10 |
| 🎟️Unzen Ropeway round trip | $12-20 |
| 🛁Onsen day-pass | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique volcanic landscapes, steaming fumaroles and therapeutic onsen.
- Peaceful, nature-focused destination with good hiking and photography opportunities.
- Traditional ryokan culture and local seafood specialties.
- Limited nightlife and fewer modern conveniences compared with cities.
- Public transport is sparse; many attractions are easiest by car.
- Volcanic gases and occasional travel disruptions from weather or geological activity.
- "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)" - Thank you (polite)
- "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me / Sorry / Thank you (to get attention)
- "温泉はどこですか？ (Onsen wa doko desu ka?)" - Where is the hot spring?
- "これはいくらですか？ (Kore wa ikura desu ka?)" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)" - Do you speak English?
- "私はベジタリアンです (Watashi wa bejitarian desu)" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Unzen
Visit one of these nice places.
Steaming fumaroles, bubbling pools and sulfur-stained ground provide dramatic, otherworldly shots — best captured in the softer light of morning or late afternoon.
Panoramic views from the ropeway or summit over the Shimabara Peninsula and Ariake Bay; great for wide landscapes and volcanic crater photos.
The small volcanic mound formed in 1990–91 offers unusual geological textures and contrasts; approach respectfully and use telephoto for details.
Sunrise/sunset compositions along the Ariake Bay coast capture fishing boats, tidal flats and distant islands — tidal flats create mirror-like reflections at low tide.
Traditional inns, lantern-lit lanes and onsen steam at twilight make for intimate cultural shots — be mindful of guest privacy.
Food in Unzen
Unzen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Eggs and steamed buns slow-cooked in onsen steam; try them at stalls around Unzen Jigoku and in front of ryokan. They’re warm, slightly sweet (manju) and a fun hot-spring specialty.
Must-Try!
Locally caught fish, squid and shellfish prepared sashimi-style or grilled; best found in coastal restaurants and izakaya around the peninsula and in ryokan meals.
A soft, historic sponge cake introduced to Nagasaki centuries ago; available at bakeries and souvenir shops in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small stands selling onsen-steamed snacks like tamago, manju and simple skewers — ideal for sampling while walking the fumarole area.
Weekly or morning fish markets in nearby coastal towns where you can taste very fresh sashimi and pick up seafood snacks — check local timetables for market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always wash and rinse thoroughly before entering communal baths, don’t bring towels into the water, and understand that tattoos are frowned upon in many baths (ask ahead or use private baths).
Remove shoes when entering homes, some ryokan and smaller restaurants; use polite greetings (e.g., a bow) and address staff respectfully. Use 'sumimasen' to get attention and 'arigatou gozaimasu' to thank.
Keep noise to a minimum in public transport, ryokan and onsen areas; queue politely and don’t block pathways while taking photos. Follow posted signs in protected natural areas and respect local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Unzen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be confusing; excellent service is included in the price. Small gifts or handwritten thank-you notes are more culturally appropriate than monetary tips.
Cash (Japanese yen) is widely used in Unzen — many small shops, markets and rural ryokan may be cash-only. Major hotels and some restaurants accept credit cards; IC transit cards and mobile payments are sometimes accepted but coverage is more limited than in big cities. ATMs that accept international cards are usually found at 7-Eleven, post offices or larger bank branches in nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery appear from late March to April; temperatures are mild but can be chilly on higher trails, so bring layers. Spring is a pleasant time for both hiking and onsen bathing.
Summers are warm and humid with high humidity and occasional heavy rain during the June–July rainy season (tsuyu); hydrangeas bloom in some areas. The mountains are cooler than the lowlands, but typhoons can affect travel in late summer.
September–November brings comfortable temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage in October–November; this is a great season for hiking and scenic photography. Nights get cooler, so bring a warm layer.
Winters are cool and can bring frost or light snow on higher ground; daytime can be crisp and sunny, making onsen baths especially appealing. Some rural services and trails may have reduced access in the coldest months.
Unzen at Night
Hiking in Unzen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible via the Unzen Ropeway or by foot, trails around Mt. Fugen offer crater rim views, volcanic landscapes and varying difficulty levels.
A short route around the volcanic mound formed in 1990–91; striking geology and contrast with surrounding forest make it a popular short hike.
An easy, well-maintained loop that takes you close to fumaroles and steaming vents — great for photographers and families, but heeding safety signs is essential.
Longer coastal walks and seaside trails that showcase tidal flats, fishing villages and sea views — good for combination hiking and cultural exploration.
Airports
How to reach Unzen by plane.
Closest regional airport serving domestic flights and some international connections; about 1.5–2 hours by car/bus depending on route and traffic. From Nagasaki Airport you can rent a car or take public transport toward the Shimabara Peninsula.
Major international hub with frequent flights and Shinkansen connections; roughly 2.5–3.5 hours by car and train combination to Unzen. Good option for international arrivals and more flight choices.
Serves domestic flights and is across the Ariake Sea from Shimabara; travel by car and ferry or road can take about 2–3 hours depending on connections. Useful as an alternate gateway to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Japanese residents in small towns and villages, many involved in fishing, farming, tourism and hospitality businesses.
Like much of rural Japan, there is a higher proportion of older residents and an aging demographic in smaller communities.
A large share of visitors are domestic tourists seeking onsen relaxation and nature excursions, especially on weekends and holidays.
Smaller numbers of international visitors compared with major cities; many are repeat visitors or those specifically interested in volcanic scenery and onsen culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
As across Japan, baseball is widely followed and played at school and community levels; local matches and youth teams are common.
Soccer is popular both as spectator sport and for youth participation; regional clubs and school teams are active.
Coastal fishing and recreational angling are popular in the Shimabara area, with opportunities for shoreline and boat fishing.
Given the volcanic landscape and national park, hiking and trail walking are common outdoor pastimes among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Unzen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but can be limited in traditional kaiseki and seafood-focused menus; communicate “Watashi wa bejitarian desu” and ask for shojin-style or vegetable courses in advance. Convenience stores and cafés offer simple vegetarian choices.
Vegan meals require advance notice—many dishes use dashi (fish broth). If strictly vegan, consider self-catering with items from supermarkets or staying in accommodations that can prepare vegetarian/vegan dishes with notice.
Halal and gluten-free options are limited in rural areas; look for seafood and vegetable dishes, and carry snacks/ingredients if you have strict requirements. Larger hotels or restaurants in bigger towns may accommodate with advance requests.