More than half a century ago, the world’s most famous secret agent arrived among the volcanic peaks of Kirishima, Kagoshima.

In the 1967 James Bond film “You Only Live Twice”, starring Sean Connery, Shinmoedake, one of the prominent volcanoes of the Kirishima mountain range, became the inspiration for the secret hideout of Bond’s enemies.

This remarkable connection between a world-famous film and the landscapes of Kirishima offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history.

Join us as we revisit the cinematic legacy of James Bond and discover a quieter, more relaxing side of Kirishima today.

A Secret Hideout Hidden Inside a Kirishima Volcano

“You Only Live Twice”, the fifth film in the James Bond series, is particularly memorable for its Japanese setting.

In the story, the criminal organization SPECTRE conceals its secret headquarters beneath a volcanic crater lake, plotting to throw the world into chaos. The dramatic volcanic landscape of Shinmoedake in the Kirishima Mountains served as the inspiration for this unforgettable setting.

The film was also notable for being set almost entirely in Japan.

Japanese actor Tetsuro Tamba portrayed Tiger Tanaka, the head of Japan’s intelligence service and an ally of Bond, while actresses Akiko Wakabayashi and Mie Hama appeared as Bond girls.

Released during Japan’s period of rapid economic growth, the film introduced international audiences to the country’s scenery and culture, inspiring a growing fascination with Japan.

Kirishima was among the most memorable locations featured in the Japanese filming.

One of the film’s iconic action sequences depicts Bond piloting a small autogyro known as “Little Nellie” in an aerial battle against enemy helicopters. Filmed above the Kirishima Mountains, the sequence captures the dramatic volcanic ridgelines and remains one of the film’s most celebrated moments. (*1)

Why Was Kirishima Chosen?

The Kirishima mountain range is one of Japan’s most remarkable volcanic regions, comprising more than 20 volcanoes.

Shinmoedake, with its rugged slopes and occasional volcanic plumes, presents a striking contrast to the graceful silhouette of Mount Takachiho-no-mine, a peak deeply associated with Japanese mythology and the legendary descent of the heavenly grandson.

For international filmmakers, these dramatic, almost otherworldly landscapes must have seemed like the perfect setting for a secret volcanic hideout.

Kirishima is a place where the power of ancient volcanic activity can still be felt today.

Rugged mountains, soothing natural hot springs, and centuries-old legends come together in a landscape now protected as part of a national park and recognized as a geopark.

The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, yet its grandeur remains as captivating as it was more than half a century ago.

The film’s connection to Kagoshima extends beyond Kirishima.

Scenes depicting the fishing village where Bond takes refuge were filmed in Akime, Bonotsu-cho, Minamisatsuma City, also in Kagoshima Prefecture. A commemorative monument still stands there today.

Through a single film, the mountains and coastal landscapes of Kagoshima became connected in an unexpected and memorable way. (*2)

After the Excitement of the Film, Rediscover Tranquility in Kirishima

On screen, Kirishima was the setting for thrilling adventures and dramatic action.

In reality, however, a journey to this region offers an entirely different experience.

Away from the noise and demands of everyday life, Kirishima invites visitors to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy moments of peaceful reflection.

Nestled in the Kurikawa Onsen area of Kirishima Onsen Village, Seiryuso is a secluded traditional Japanese hot spring inn.

Since opening in 1951, the inn has welcomed guests to its tranquil setting beside a mountain stream within the Amorigawa river system.

Immerse yourself in the open-air communal baths and take in the changing colors of Kirishima’s forests and mountains.

With little to disturb the peaceful atmosphere beyond the gentle sound of flowing water, the soothing hot spring waters, known for their skin-friendly qualities, gradually ease away the excitement and fatigue of travel.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Japanese multi-course kaiseki dinner showcasing the seasonal flavors of Kagoshima.

Breakfast, prepared with rice cooked using water from the Kirishima Mountains, offers another opportunity to appreciate the natural blessings of the region.

These unhurried moments of dining and relaxation provide a welcome escape from the pace of everyday life.

Seiryuso also offers private family baths housed in a beautifully preserved traditional Japanese building more than a century old, as well as an outdoor bathing experience beneath the night sky, accompanied by the gentle sounds of the stream.

As evening settles over the valley, the quiet surroundings and the sound of flowing water create a deeply calming atmosphere.

The inn is also a welcoming retreat for solo travelers seeking time to unwind at their own pace.

A Relaxing Day Exploring Kirishima

After discovering Kirishima’s cinematic history, take time to explore the region’s cultural and natural attractions.

Kirishima Jingu Shrine, closely associated with the Japanese myth of the descent of the heavenly grandson, continues to attract visitors with its magnificent architecture, sacred atmosphere, and spiritual significance.

For those who appreciate music, Miyama Conseru, a concert hall nestled in the mountains, is another wonderful destination.

Located approximately 15 minutes by car from Seiryuso, it offers the opportunity to enjoy beautiful musical performances surrounded by Kirishima’s natural scenery.

Please note that access to Shinmoedake may be restricted depending on volcanic activity. Always check the latest official information before planning a visit.

The Ebino Plateau and designated viewpoints in the surrounding area offer opportunities to admire the magnificent Kirishima mountain range, subject to current safety conditions. (*3)

Seiryuso is conveniently located approximately 30 minutes by car from Kagoshima Airport and 20 minutes from Kirishima-Jingu Station, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

With easy access to local attractions, guests can spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the restorative atmosphere of Kirishima.

From the dramatic volcanic landscapes that once captivated audiences around the world to the quiet pleasures of a traditional Japanese hot spring retreat, Kirishima offers two contrasting experiences in a single journey.

We warmly invite you to discover both sides of this remarkable destination and enjoy your own peaceful moments at Seiryuso.

Notes

(*1) The secret headquarters shown inside the volcanic crater was not filmed inside an actual volcano. Instead, an elaborate set designed by production designer Ken Adam was constructed at Pinewood Studios in the United Kingdom. It is said that difficulties associated with filming at Japanese castles helped inspire the idea of a secret base hidden inside a volcano.

(*2) Some sources identify Mount Karakunidake as a filming location associated with the secret headquarters. In this article, the location is described more broadly as Shinmoedake and the surrounding Kirishima mountain range, including the areas used for aerial filming.

(*3) For the latest information on volcanic activity, hiking restrictions, and access to Shinmoedake and other mountains in Kirishima, please consult the official Takachiho-gawara Visitor Center website (takachiho-visitorcenter.org).