Mt. Ohnami-ike, Satsuma Travel Guide

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Explore Mt. Ohnami-ike: Hike around Japan's highest crater lake in Kirishima, Kagoshima, and immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty.

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Mt. Ohnami-ike

Mt. Ohnami-ike, nestled in Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park, is a stunning crater lake formed approximately 45,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption. As the highest crater lake in Japan, it offers breathtaking views, diverse flora, and tranquil hiking trails.

A brief summary to Mt. Ohnami-ike

Makizonocho Takachiho, Kirishima, Makizonocho Takachiho, Kagoshima, JP

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mt. Ohnami-ike.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the trails can be uneven and steep in places.
Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in mountainous areas.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Sengan-en

Museum of the Meiji Restoration

Kagoshima City Aquarium

Shiroyama Park

Nagisa Museum, Shigetomi Coast, Natural Fureai-kan

Explore Mt. Ohnami-ike on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Mt. Ohnami-ike, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If driving from Kirishima, follow Route 223 towards Ebino Kogen. Look for signs for Mt. Ohnami-ike. There is a parking area near the trailhead. Parking is limited, especially during peak season.
Bus

From Maruo Onsen, take a bus towards Ebino Kogen. Get off at the stop closest to the Mt. Ohnami-ike trailhead. Check local bus schedules for current fares and times.
Walking

From the Ebino Eco-Museum Center, follow the signs towards Mt. Karakuni and Onami-ike. The trail to the lake is well-marked and takes approximately 40 minutes. Be prepared for a steep uphill climb through the forest.

Discover more about Mt. Ohnami-ike

Discover the serene beauty of Mt. Ohnami-ike, a captivating nature preserve in the Kirishima region of Kagoshima, Japan. This stunning crater lake, the highest in Japan at 1,412 meters above sea level, was formed by a massive volcanic eruption around 45,000 years ago. The eruption was so powerful that volcanic debris spread as far as the Miyazaki Plains, 50 kilometers to the east.Today, Mt. Ohnami-ike offers a tranquil escape with its cobalt blue waters and lush green surroundings. The area is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with trails catering to various skill levels. As you explore the trails, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The lake's clear waters reflect the colorful foliage in the fall, creating a picturesque scene.The area is home to diverse plant life, including Japanese beech, oak, and other broadleaf deciduous trees that create vibrant autumnal foliage. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you explore this natural habitat. According to local legend, the lake is named after a village headman's daughter who was the incarnation of a dragon and threw herself into the lake after refusing marriage proposals.