Kagoshima

Kagoshima, the southernmost major city on Japan's Kyushu island, sits near Sakurajima, one of the world's most active volcanoes. In this city, you can climb volcanic trails, soak in hot springs, and eat local dishes like Kagoshima Kuroushi beef. You might visit Sengan-en Garden with its traditional Japanese architecture, watch marine life at Kagoshima Aquarium, or take a ferry to explore Sakurajima itself.

Sakurajima: Kagoshima's Iconic Volcano

Sakurajima is visible from most parts of Kagoshima, often emitting ash and smoke. You can take a 15-minute ferry ride to the volcano island to explore its landscape. Hike along trails such as the Yunohira Observatory Trail, which leads to a viewing point 373 meters above sea level. At the Sakurajima Visitor Center, you'll find exhibits about the volcano's 13,000-year history. After hiking, you can relax in the Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park Footbath - a 100-meter long foot bath with views of the smoking peak.

Sengan-en: A Window to Feudal Japan

Sengan-en, a traditional Japanese garden and stately home, was once the residence of the Shimazu clan. As you walk through the 5-hectare gardens, you'll see Sakurajima in the distance. The on-site museum displays artifacts from the Shimazu family, including samurai armor and swords. You can also learn about Kagoshima's industrial heritage, with exhibits on early Japanese glassmaking and the production of Satsuma kiriko cut glass.

Culinary Experiences in Kagoshima

Kagoshima's cuisine includes several local specialties. You can try Kagoshima Kuroushi (black beef), known for its marbling and rich flavor. Kurobuta pork, often called "the Kobe beef of pork," comes from black Berkshire pigs raised in the region. You can also sample shochu, a distilled spirit often made from sweet potatoes in Kagoshima. Many izakayas in the Tenmonkan area, such as Wa Dining Satsuma, serve these local foods alongside Kagoshima residents.

Relaxation in Hot Springs and Sand Baths

Kagoshima's volcanic activity has created numerous hot springs in the region. In nearby Ibusuki, about an hour south of Kagoshima city, you can experience a sand bath. At places like Sayuri Onsen, you'll be covered in naturally heated volcanic sand for about 10-15 minutes. This treatment, called sunamushi, is believed to improve circulation and relieve stress. For a traditional onsen experience, visit the hot springs in Kirishima, just north of Kagoshima city. The outdoor baths at Kirishima Onsen Shinyu have views of the surrounding mountains.

Exploring Marine Life at Kagoshima Aquarium

The Io World Kagoshima Aquarium, located in the Kagoshima Port area, houses over 30,000 marine creatures in 500 species. You can see whale sharks, manta rays, and other animals native to the Kuroshio Current. The 'Kuroshio Great Water Tank', holding 1,500 tons of water, is one of the largest in Japan. The aquarium also has daily dolphin and sea lion shows at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.

Getting Around Kagoshima

Kagoshima has good public transportation. The Shinkansen (bullet train) connects Kagoshima-Chuo Station to other major cities in Kyushu and beyond, with trains to Fukuoka taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Within the city, you can use trams, buses, and ferries. The tram system has two lines covering most of the city center. You might consider purchasing a one-day "Cute" pass for 600 yen, which allows unlimited travel on buses, trams, and ferries within the city.

Day Trips from Kagoshima

From Kagoshima, you can explore the surrounding region. You might take a trip to Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its cedar forests and hiking trails. The island is accessible by a 2-hour high-speed ferry or a 30-minute flight from Kagoshima Airport. On Yakushima, you can hike to Jōmon Sugi, a cedar tree estimated to be between 2,000 and 7,000 years old. Alternatively, you could visit Kirishima-Yaku National Park to the north, where you can hike among volcanic peaks and soak in outdoor hot springs with mountain views. The Kirishima Shrine, dedicated to the first emperor of Japan, is located in the park.

Historical Significance of Kagoshima

Kagoshima was involved in Japan's modernization during the Meiji Restoration. At the Museum of the Meiji Restoration, you can learn about this period in Japanese history through exhibits and historical reenactments. The city was also the birthplace of Saigo Takamori, a key figure in the Meiji Restoration often referred to as "The Last Samurai." You can see a 8-meter high bronze statue of Saigo in traditional samurai attire at the foot of Shiroyama. If you climb to the top of Shiroyama, you'll have views of the city and Sakurajima from 107 meters above sea level.