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Kagoshima Attractions

Nicknamed as the “Naples of the East”, Kagoshima Prefecture lies in the southernmost part of Kyushu Island, Japan. It’s abundant in islands stretching all the way to Okinawa, volcanos, forests and hot springs. Also known as Satsuma in the past, Kagoshima used to be one of the most important provinces in Japan’s history and now is home to a lot of historical relics.

Top Attractions to Visit in Kagoshima

1. Sakurajima Volcano 

As a symbol of Kagoshima, Sakurajima Volcano is one of the most active volcanos in Japan and one of the a few inhabited active volcanos in the world. The 1,117-meter-high (3,664 ft.) volcano erupts frequently and emits smoke and ash hundreds of times a year, but most of the eruptions are minor and have little effect on sightseeing and transportation. It is only 4 km (2.5 mi.) away from the downtown of Kagoshima, attracting numerous tourists to admire the spectacular eruptions. 

From Yunohira Observatory on the volcanic island, which is the closest observation position to the crater, you may get a close-up view of the eruption and appreciate the power of nature.

If you want to get a panorama of Sakurajima Volcano, it is highly recommended to go to Shiroyama Park that is in central Kagoshima City. Walk along the 2-kilometer Shiroyama Promenade in it and you will get to the Observation Deck, from which you may take splendid photos of Sakurajima and the surrounding bay.

2. Sengan-en Garden 

Sengan-en Garden was the residence of the powerful Shimazu clan who ruled this area for over 700 years. Constructed in 1658, it was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 2015. The architecture here shows a combination of Japanese, Chinese and Western styles, and the garden skillfully “borrows” magnificent scenery of the nearby Sakurajima Volcano and Kagoshima Bay. Strolling in the houses and gardens, you will get a sense of how a feudal lord lived his life.

3. Ibusuki Onsen 

Hot spring resorts are not uncommon in Japan, while Ibusuki is famous for its unusual “sand baths”. The traditional bath style by covering the body up to the neck with the naturally-heated sand has a history of over 300 years. It is said to help detoxify the body and improve blood circulation. Taking a sand bath is definitely a fun and unique life experience. 

It’s also a good idea to take a sightseeing train to Ibusuki Onsen. The Ibusuki no Tamatebako train between Kagoshima-chuo and Ibusuki is painted half black and half white. From the retro window of the train, you will get a stunning view of the seascape.

4. Kirishima Jingu Shrine 

Built in 1715, Kirishima Jingu Shrine, or Kirishima Grand Shrine, is a designated National Treasure of Japan and the biggest shrine in the southern Kyushu. Shaded by many 800-year-old cedar trees and embraced by clouds, the shrine is sacredly situating on the hillside of Mt. Kirishima. People usually come here to pray for family safety and career prosperity.

The nearby Kirishima Onsen is a perfect spot to go after visiting the shrine. Taking a sulfuric hot spring bath in the mountain is an enjoyment and a relaxation.

5. Yakushima Island

Yakushima Island is a remote subtropical island and the first designated UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in Japan. It’s also the inspiration for the movie - Princess Mononoke which is directed by the well-known animation film director Miyazaki Hayao. The ecology of the island is still pristine with tiny damage or pollution, making it home to some of Japan’s oldest cedar trees. Most of them are over 1,000 years old, and there is even a huge prehistoric cedar tree called “Jomon Sugi” which is said to be around 7,000 years old. Besides, Yakushima Island is rich in imposing waterfalls such as Okonotaki Fall which is 88 meters (288.7 ft.) high.

More Places to Go in Kagoshima

1. Amami Islands 

Amami Islands are a group of islands located between Kagoshima and Okinawa. The colorful coral reefs and white-sandy beaches are the highlights of Amami Islands. The mild climate and beautiful natural scenery contribute to the popularity of the islands, too. 

Must-go islands here include: Amami-Oshima Island - the biggest island of Amami Islands and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site; Tokunoshima Island - also a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and famous for local traditional bullfighting; Yoron Island - the southernmost of Amami Islands which is attractive for its wonderful beaches and various water sports.

2. Cape Nagasakibana 

Cape Nagasakibana, also named as “Ryugubana” - literally “Dragon Palace”, is situated in the southernmost of Satsuma Peninsula. It is believed to be the birthplace of Japanese myth of Urashima Taro. The cape is the best place to admire Mount Kaimondake - “the Mt. Fuji of Satsuma”.

Besides, the Ryugu Jinja Shrine on the cape is where people pray for good love relationships, and there is a lighthouse called “the lighthouse of love” which is another popular photo spot in Kagoshima.

3. Izumi-Fumoto Samurai Residences 

Located in northern Kagoshima, Izumi-Fumoto is the oldest and largest samurai’s former residential area in Kagoshima. There are about 150 samurai’s houses of the Edo period (1603-1867). The stonewalls, hidden escape way and the historical furnishings inside the residences give you a chance to have a glimpse of the Japanese samurai’s life 400 years ago. 

It will be better to explore the area as a real “samurai” by wearing a kimono and sitting on a traditional bullock cart. The nearby Izumi Fumoto History Museum will help you learn more about the history and the former glory of Japanese samurai.

4. Kagoshima City Aquarium 

Kagoshima City Aquarium - the biggest aquarium in the Kyushu Island lies at Kagoshima Bay with views of Sakurajima Volcano. This aquarium has a variety of marine animals including tropical fish, shellfish and whale sharks due to the unique geographical location and warm current of Kagoshima. The highlight is the everyday “Dolphin Time” show and “The Deep Sea of Kagoshima” exhibition.

5. Museum of the Meiji Restoration 

The Museum of the Meiji Restoration is the best place to get insights into the history of Kagoshima. Here, you may learn the historical significance of former Satsuma during Meiji Restoration (1868) and how the samurai as well as other historical figures of Kagoshima contribute to the development of Japan.

6. Tenmonkan Area

Tenmonkan Area is the busiest street in Kagoshima City. It’s lined with cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops and pubs. Here you can try authentic local foods like black beef and black pork, taste some shochu – a kind of Japanese alcohol, and buy specialties or other needed things.