Kaimon-dake 開聞岳
Satsuma-Fuji - Kagoshima’s mini-Mt Fuji
This is one of my favourites. It’s Kagoshima’s mini-Mt Fuji, easily accessed by train, with its own station at the bottom.
Climbing Kaimon-dake is a lot of fun. It’s only 924m high, the track curls around at the top, and there are magnificent views out over Kagoshima Prefecture and the coast. Allow 5-6 hours for the climb and descent. Take lunch and refreshments.
Remember, you can’t see the magnificent shape of the mountain you’re climbing while you’re on it. It only looks like Mt Fuji from a distance.
While it’s easy to get there by train, a rental car is a real bonus if you’re exploring Kagoshima prefecture. Combine a climb here with a ‘sand bath’ or onsen visit at nearby Ibusuki.