Shimabara Peninsula Castle, Samurai Houses and Unzen Jigoku Course

The Shimabara Peninsula is a varied area that combines a castle town known for its spring water with a hot-spring resort where steam rises from the earth. On this course you soak up history at the white Shimabara Castle and the old samurai residences, then climb the mountain to feel the breath of the land at Unzen Jigoku. It is a day that offers both the calm of a castle town and the power of a hot-spring area.

Course Route

9:30 Start at Shimabara Castle Begin the morning at the beautiful white keep ringed by a moat. Climb the tower for views of the Ariake Sea and the Unzen mountains, and learn the region's history from the exhibits inside.

11:00 Stroll the samurai houses Walk to the samurai residence street near the castle. Clear water runs down the center of the cobbled lane, lined with old houses. It is a quiet, atmospheric corner that conveys daily life of the past.

12:00 Lunch in the town of springs Shimabara is famed for pure water. Channels wind through town, and you can taste sweets and local dishes made with spring water. Enjoy a relaxed lunch while strolling.

14:00 Move to Unzen Drive up the mountain road to the high hot-spring resort. The drive itself is enjoyable as scenery shifts from town to mountain.

15:00 Walk Unzen Jigoku Follow the paths where white steam and the smell of sulfur hang in the air. Steam bursting up all around makes for a powerful sight. If tired, finish by soaking in a hot spring.

Highlights

The white form of Shimabara Castle mirrored on the moat and the water-lined samurai street are the beautiful scenes of a castle town. In contrast, Unzen Jigoku is the raw natural sculpture of steam rising endlessly from the ground. The contrast of historic streets and living earth is this course's greatest charm.

Access and Tips

Central Shimabara can be covered on foot, but a car is convenient from the town up to Unzen since it climbs a mountain road. If using public transport, check bus frequencies in advance. Unzen sits at high elevation and is cooler than central Shimabara, so bring a jacket.

A Quick Tip

Parts of the Unzen Jigoku paths can be slippery from sulfur. Wear good walking shoes and take care not to get too close to the steam. Ending with a soak in an Unzen hot spring makes for a relaxed close to the day.