Maharshi Ray
Google
As a volcano enthusiast, I really enjoyed my time in Unzen. Mt. Unzen is infamous for the 1991 eruption that got a lot of international media attention. There are several ways to enjoy the mountain currently. Unzen is a collective name for several different peaks located next to each other.
On day 1, I climbed Fugen-dake peak (which used to be the highest point before 1991 eruption). To climb it, I went to "Unzen mountain information center" (right next to "Unzen Jigoku" Hells) and took a taxi to Nita toge pass (3000¥). It was a non-technical hike taking little more than an hour to reach the peak directly. On the way up I heard some growling animal sounds, so I wore my bear bells (although I don't think there are bears in the area). From the peak I could see 'Heisei Shinzan' the new highest point of the mountain, which is a lava dome formed during the 1991 eruption. We can see it very up close and also see the smoke from the lava dome continuously coming out from the vents.
On day 2, I visited the city of Shimabara, on the other side of Unzen and checked out the Unzen Disaster Memorial Hall (an amazing museum to learn about the 1991 eruption) and Onokoba Mudslide Prevention Museum & Observatory from where we can see the other side of Mt. Unzen which is picturesque.