Welcome to our detailed 3-day itinerary for exploring the charming city of Kagoshima. Nestled at the southwestern tip of Japan, Kagoshima offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural treasures. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, this itinerary has something for everyone.
Day 1: Discovering Kagoshima City
Your first day in Kagoshima will be a mix of history, culture, and stunning views. Make sure to start early to make the most of your day.
Morning: Shiroyama Park & Observatory
Begin your day with a visit to Shiroyama Park & Observatory. This park is not only a serene escape within the city but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kagoshima and the iconic Sakurajima volcano.
- Location: 22-13 Shiroyamacho, Kagoshima, 892-0853, Japan
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Tip: Early morning is the best time to visit to avoid crowds and catch the sunrise over the city.
Mid-Morning: Terukuni Shrine
After enjoying the views from Shiroyama Observatory, head to Terukuni Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the local deity Shimazuhisa-hime-no-mikoto. The shrine is well-known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
- Location: 19-35 Terukunicho, Kagoshima, 892-0841, Japan
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tip: Take a stroll through the shrine’s lush gardens and admire the traditional architecture.
Lunch: Satsuma Cuisine
For lunch, indulge in some local delicacies at a restaurant offering Satsuma cuisine. Kagoshima is famous for its Kurobuta (black pork) dishes, as well as fresh seafood.
- Recommendation: Try the Kurobuta Tonkatsu (breaded, deep-fried black pork cutlet) for a truly authentic experience.
Afternoon: Sengan-en Garden
After a satisfying lunch, make your way to Sengan-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden offering some of the most picturesque views in Kagoshima. The garden includes a stately home and various historical buildings.
- Location: 9700-1 Yoshinocho, Kagoshima, 892-0871, Japan
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tip: Don’t miss the Shoko Shuseikan Museum located within the garden premises. It offers insights into the Shimadzu family’s history and Japanese industry.
Evening: Amu Plaza Kagoshima
Wrap up your first day at Amu Plaza Kagoshima, a bustling shopping and entertainment complex next to Kagoshima-chuo Station. Whether you want to shop for souvenirs, enjoy a meal, or relax at a café, Amu Plaza has it all.
- Location: 1-1 Chuocho, Kagoshima, 890-0053, Japan
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tip: Explore the rooftop Ferris wheel to get a unique view of the city lights at night.
After a fun-filled day exploring the many attractions Kagoshima City has to offer, return to your accommodation to rest up for another exciting day. Day 2 will take you deeper into the cultural and natural beauty of Kagoshima. Stay tuned!
Day 2: Cultural and Natural Wonders
On Day 2, we leave the bustling city behind to explore more serene and culturally rich locations in Kagoshima’s surrounding areas.
Morning: Kirishima Grand Shrine
Your journey begins with a visit to the Kirishima Grand Shrine (Kirishima Jingu), a stunning Shinto shrine steeped in history and mythology. It’s set in the midst of lush forests, providing a tranquil start to your day.
- Location: 2608-5 Kirishimataguchi, Kirishima, Kagoshima 899-4201, Japan
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Tip: Spend some time exploring the surrounding forest trails for some peaceful reflection.
Mid-Morning: Kirishima Onsen Market
Next, head to the Kirishima Onsen Market for a mid-morning break. This market is a great place to experience the local onsen (hot springs) culture and pick up some unique souvenirs.
- Location: 3878-114 Makizonocho Takachiho, Kirishima, Kagoshima 899-6603, Japan
- Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tip: Try the onsen tamago (hot spring eggs), a local delicacy boiled in the hot spring water.
Lunch: Local Delicacies at Kirishima Onsen Market
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the eateries in the Kirishima Onsen Market. Savor the flavors of fresh local ingredients and traditional Japanese cuisine.
- Recommendation: Look for dishes featuring local produce and specialties such as onsen steamed vegetables.
Afternoon: Kirishima Open-Air Musuem
Spend your afternoon exploring the Kirishima Open-Air Musuem, a unique outdoor museum that features contemporary art installations set against the backdrop of Kirishima’s natural landscapes.
- Location: 220 Koba 6340, Yusui-cho, Aira-gun, Kagoshima 899-6201 Japan
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Admission until 4:30 PM)
- Tip: Allocate at least a couple of hours to fully enjoy the art and the stunning natural surroundings.
Evening: Return to Kagoshima and Dinner
Head back to Kagoshima City and unwind with a delightful dinner. Consider visiting a restaurant that offers a view of the cityscape or Sakurajima volcano.
- Recommendation: Look for restaurants offering rooftop dining or those located along the waterfront for the best views.
With another day filled with beautiful sights and cultural experiences, it’s time to rest. Tomorrow’s itinerary will take you to more of Kagoshima’s unique and must-see locations. Stay tuned!
Day 3: Islands and Volcanoes
Day 3 promises excitement and adventure as you explore the volcanic landscapes and surrounding islands of Kagoshima. Prepare for a day filled with natural beauty and unique experiences.
Morning: Ferry to Sakurajima
Start your day with a ferry ride to Sakurajima, the active volcanic island that is the symbol of Kagoshima. The ferry ride itself offers stunning views of the volcano and the surrounding bay.
- Location: Kagoshima Port, Kagoshima City, Japan
- Tip: The ferry operates frequently and the ride lasts about 15 minutes, ensuring easy access to the island.
Mid-Morning: Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park and Foot Bath
Upon reaching Sakurajima, make your way to Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park where you can relax and soak your feet in the natural hot spring foot bath, while enjoying views of the volcano.
- Location: 891-1419 Yokoyama-cho, Sakurajima, Kagoshima 17223, Japan
- Hours: 9:00 AM – sunset
Late Morning: Exploring Sakurajima
Take a bus tour or rent a bicycle to explore the different aspects of Sakurajima. Visit the Sakurajima Volcano Observatory, the lava fields, and the various lookout points for panoramic views of Kagoshima Bay and the volcano.
- Tip: The Sakurajima Island View Bus is a convenient way to get around and covers major sights.
Lunch: Island Dining
Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants on Sakurajima. Fresh seafood is a specialty here, along with dishes made from local produce grown in the volcanic soil.
- Recommendation: Try the Sakurajima daikon (radish) dishes, as the island is famous for growing some of the world’s largest radishes.
Afternoon: Ibusuki Natural Sand Baths
Take another ferry back to Kagoshima and head to Ibusuki for a unique spa experience. The Natural Sand Baths in Ibusuki are unlike any other, where you are buried in naturally heated volcanic sand.
- Location: Ibusuki, Kagoshima, Japan
- Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and ensure you get a spot on the beach.
Evening: Ontamaran-don Rice Bowl and Relaxation
After your relaxing sand bath, treat yourself to an Ontamaran-don Rice Bowl for dinner. This local specialty features rice topped with a perfect soft-boiled egg and delicious toppings.
- Recommendation: Look for restaurants in Ibusuki that serve this dish as part of a traditional set meal.
As your three-day adventure in Kagoshima comes to an end, spend your final evening reflecting on the unique experiences and beautiful sights you’ve encountered. Kagoshima is truly a gem worth visiting again and again.
