The historical city of Kagoshima serves as the capital of the prefecture with the same name, located on the Japanese island of Kyushu. Watched over by an active volcano, this city was a major site during the Satsuma Rebellion and home of the samurai hero Saigo Takamori. With a beautiful landscape and rich history, Kagoshima is especially popular with Japanese tourists.
Kagoshima Airport serves the city and is about an hour away from the main train station.
Kagoshima boasts a beautiful landscape that is heavily dominated by Sakurajima. Being an active volcano that spews ash from time to time, travelers are forbidden from coming within two kilometers of the crater. However, there are several lookout points to get a closer look of the volcano and the surrounding area. Yunohira Lookout is one such spot, and it provides a great view of both the volcano and the harbor. Tsurumaru Castle is a great site for those looking to explore the history and culture of the area. Here is where the
Reimeikan, or Kagoshima Prefectural Museum of Culture, can be explored. Another not-to-be-missed attraction of Kagoshima is the impressive Senganen Garden, and the
Kagoshima City Aquarium is said to be a great stop – even for those who aren’t fans of marine life.
Be sure to check out the interactive map of Kagoshima for information on hotel locations, attractions, and must-see destinations.
