Kyushu Spring 2014 九州春季之旅 - Sakurajima Dinosaur Park 桜島自然恐竜公園

Visited 25.03.2014

Dinosaurs co-existing with cherry blossom trees.

The plan was to visit several spots located near the ferry terminal because we could only spare one morning in Sakurajima. Selected three and the first was Sakurajima Dinosaur Park, which is opened to public 24/7 everyday. Direction to the park is quite straightforward: once exit from the ferry terminal, turn left and walk straight ahead. After about 2 minutes walk, a road signboard came into sight. What I did not expect was that this park was actually located on a small hill and we had to overcome the gradient and a winding road to reach this park. If you plan to visit the park, be prepared to spend another 10 - 15 mins to walk up this hill as there are no public transport service to Dinosaur Park.

An overcast on the volcanoes of Sakurajima.

Highlights: 

From its name, one may have perceived it to be some science park with dinosaurs exhibits. This is essentially a park for the local community, with some dinosaur replicas built as playground facilities for kids - though much better looking (and adorable) than those we have in our HDB playground. To me, the main reason that led me here is definitely not the replicas of dinosaurs. Because of the numerous cherry blossom trees planted here, this area becomes a popular "hanami" spot (or sakura viewing) during spring. It was a good day for us as 50% of the trees have started blooming beautiful and elegant flowers and would have reach full bloom if we came several days later. The altitude makes this park an excellent observatory to catch a glimpse of fuming volcano eastwards and an overview of Kinko bay and Kagoshima city westwards. Even though I would not specifically pick this park as a must visit attraction in Sakurajima, the unexpected encounter of "hanami" has somehow made my visit here a memorable and unforgettable one.

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Sakurajima Dinosaur Park 桜島自然恐竜公園
〒891-1419 鹿児島市桜島横山町
Free admission
http://www.sakurajima.gr.jp/tourism/000354.html