The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said the volcano erupted around 8:05 pm local time (7:05 am ET). Footage from the agency’s surveillance camera showed a plume of smoke or ash rising from the volcano.
JMA announced a level 5 alert, the highest level, asking people to evacuate. JMA advised caution for residents of Kagoshima Prefecture and Kagoshima City.
There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.
Japan’s nuclear regulators said no irregularities had been detected at the nearby Sendai nuclear power plant, Reuters reported.
According to NASA, Sakurajima is one of Japan’s most active volcanoes, having erupted several times in recent decades.
It previously erupted in January, sending an ash cloud miles into the air.
The volcano is located in Kagoshima Prefecture in the southern tip of Japan.