From Kagoshima Port to Sakurajima (Sakurajima Ferry and how to get around the island)

Table of Contents for the Cruise Guide

Page headings

  1. How to get to Sakurajima
  2. How to navigate based on port call duration
  3. Things to be aware of
  4. Also worth reading
  5. FAQ
  6. Source/Reference Information

Cruise Guide

  1. My first cruise
  2. Packing list
  3. List of cruise ships
  4. Estimated price
  5. Port Day Guide
  6. List of ports within walking distance
  7. From the airport to the port (Yokohama/Tokyo)
  8. Immigration procedures by ship
  9. Typhoon and port closure
  10. Cruise ship arrival schedule
  11. For crew staff

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Key points of this page

  • On days when the ship docks at Kagoshima Port, you can take a trip to Sakurajima, which still emits plumes of smoke.
  • The Sakurajima Ferry ride takes about 15 minutes and costs 250 yen for adults. Starting in October 2025, the ferry will operate from 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM.
  • Once you arrive at Sakurajima, it's convenient to take the "Sakurajima Island View" loop bus (approximately 60 minutes per loop) to visit the various observation points.

Last verified: October 2, 2026 (Time is approximate. Source is at the end of this page.)

Seagulls overlooking the harbor

Sakurajima is still an erupting volcano. There are days when ash falls, so it's a good idea to wear a mask and a hat!

How to get to Sakurajima

section Estimated time and fare
Marine Port Kagoshima → Ferry Terminal Since it's far away, take a bus or taxi.
Kagoshima Port → Sakurajima Port (Sakurajima Ferry) Approximately 15 minutes. Adults 250 yen (children 130 yen). Operates from 4:00 to 23:30.
Sakurajima Port → Observation deck on the island Sakurajima Island View Loop Bus: Approximately 60 minutes per loop, 15 trips per day. 230 yen per ride, 500 yen for a one-day pass.
  • Ferry fares can be paid in cash, as well as with transportation IC cards and credit cards.
  • There is also a common one-day pass called "Cute" (1,300 yen for adults) that allows you to ride the city tram, city bus, Island View, and Sakurajima Ferry.

How to navigate based on port call duration

Port of Call Time Examples of how to go around
4-6 hours We took a ferry to Sakurajima, strolled around the port area, and then returned.
6-8 hours Take the ferry and Island View to Yunohira Observatory. This can be combined with sightseeing in Kagoshima City.
More than 10 hours Take your time to enjoy both Sakurajima and the city of Kagoshima, including Tenmonkan.

Things to be aware of

  • Sakurajima is an active volcano. Depending on the eruption status, access to certain areas may be restricted.
  • Let's check the all-aboard time and bus schedules by working backward from the departure time.

Also worth reading

FAQ

Q1 How long will the Sakurajima ferry ride take?

The journey from Kagoshima Port to Sakurajima Port takes approximately 15 minutes (it may take up to 20 minutes depending on the weather and sea conditions). The fare is 250 yen for adults, and you can use transportation IC cards or credit cards.

Q2 What are your plans once you arrive at Sakurajima?

A loop bus called "Sakurajima Island View" departs from Sakurajima Port, visiting places such as the Yunohira Observatory and Akamizu Observatory Plaza. The loop takes about 60 minutes and runs 15 times a day. A single ride costs 230 yen, and a one-day pass is 500 yen.

Q3 Is it possible to walk from the cruise ship dock to the ferry terminal?

The ferry terminal is quite a distance from Marine Port Kagoshima, where the cruise ships dock, so you'll need to take a bus or taxi.

Source/Reference Information

Last updated: October 2, 2026. Times and fares are subject to change.