Sakurajima (桜島), located in Kagoshima Prefecture, southern Kyushu, Japan, is one of the most active volcanoes in Japan. It is located just 4-5km from downtown Kagoshima city, and with its majestic appearance and continuous volcanic activity, it is deeply ingrained in the lives of local residents. Sakurajima, which was once an island, was connected to the Osumi Peninsula by a major eruption in 1914, forming its current peninsula shape. This volcano is part of the Aira Caldera, a geologically very dynamic area.
Sakurajima volcano continues its active activity in 2025. In particular, on the early morning of November 16, 2025, a large-scale eruption occurred, and it was reported that volcanic ash and smoke rose up to 4400m above the ground. Due to this, a volcanic ash fall warning was issued in some areas of Kagoshima Prefecture and neighboring Miyazaki Prefecture. In addition, in May of this year, 135 eruptions occurred in one week, of which 73 were explosive eruptions. At the time, the amount of volcanic gas emitted recorded 11,200 tons per day, breaking the record since observations began in 2007. Currently, the eruption alert level for Sakurajima is maintained at level 3, 'entry restriction', out of 5 levels.
The continuous eruptions of Sakurajima have a direct impact on the daily lives of the surrounding residents. The frequent ash fall makes it difficult to secure visibility on the roads, making driving difficult, and causing inconvenience such as difficulty in cleaning. Residents live with the volcano to the extent that it is common for them to use bus stop-shaped shelters to avoid volcanic ash, and for kindergarteners and elementary school students to wear helmets to school. In the event of intense volcanic activity, international flights to and from Kagoshima Airport may be canceled, affecting transportation.
Sakurajima is composed of Ontake (御岳) mountain, which collectively refers to the three peaks of Kitadake (北岳, 1,117m), Nakadake (中岳, 1,060m), and Minamidake (南岳, 1,040m). This volcano is located on the southern edge of the Aira Caldera, which was formed by a large eruption about 29,000 years ago, and is an active volcano that was formed relatively recently among Japan's volcanoes. In particular, eruptions occur actively at the summit crater of Minamidake and the Showa crater, and it has a close relationship with the lives of residents to the extent that volcanic information is announced separately in the weather forecast.
Sakurajima residents live their lives with a high level of understanding of volcanic activity and thorough preparation. Even in normal times, they follow the rules of life, such as not hanging laundry considering the direction of volcanic ash and wearing masks and protective glasses when volcanic ash falls. The Japan Meteorological Agency divides the volcanic eruption alert level into 5 levels and provides real-time volcanic activity information to residents. This system plays an important role in helping residents respond quickly to dangerous situations and minimize damage.
Travelers planning to visit Sakurajima should be aware of a few things for their safety. The most important thing is to check the real-time volcanic activity information through the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) website (https://www.jma.go.jp/jma/indexe.html). Currently, the alert level for Sakurajima is level 3, 'entry restriction', so access to certain areas may be restricted. In addition, it is recommended to prepare N95 masks, protective glasses, and long-sleeved clothes in preparation for volcanic ash, and to stay indoors and close windows and doors to prevent volcanic ash from entering. Always follow the instructions of the local authorities and be careful. The latest eruption news can also be found in the following article: The most threatening volcano in Japan explodes again... Volcanic ash rises up to 4,400m
The Sakurajima volcano is a wonder and a challenge of nature that forms the beautiful scenery of the Kyushu region of Japan and, at the same time, affects the lives of residents with its constant activity. As of November 17, 2025, it continues to erupt actively, and some studies predict that a large-scale eruption is likely to occur within the next 30 years. This prediction raises the need for Kagoshima City to establish a new evacuation plan, and once again reminds us of the wisdom of living with the volcano and the importance of preparation. The dynamic nature of Sakurajima requires us to revere and respect the power of nature.
Q1: What is the current alert level of Sakurajima volcano?
A1: As of November 17, 2025, the eruption alert level for Sakurajima volcano is level 3, 'entry restriction', out of 5 levels.
Q2: In which direction does Sakurajima volcanic ash usually fly?
A2: Most eruptions head towards the Pacific Ocean along the westerlies, but volcanic ash often flies to surrounding areas, including Kagoshima city.
Q3: What is the most important safety guideline when visiting Sakurajima volcano?
A3: It is most important to check real-time volcanic activity information through the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) website and to follow the instructions of local authorities.
Q4: How do Sakurajima residents prepare for volcanic activity?
A4: Residents have prepared various countermeasures in their daily lives, such as using volcanic ash shelters, wearing helmets, and preparing masks and protective glasses.
0