Top 15 Must-Experience Attractions in Kagoshima, Japan

The vibrant city of Kagoshima serves as the capital of the larger Kagoshima Prefecture and is an excellent starting point for exploring the island of Kyushu in Japan.

This city is especially renowned for the striking Sakurajima volcano that resides adjacent to it, making it a prime location for those interested in venturing to the neighboring islands of Okinawa.

Within the town, visitors can explore an array of fascinating museums, tranquil parks, engage in hikes up the nearby volcano, and discover the hot springs located in the surrounding villages.

Here are the 15 best activities to experience in Kagoshima…

1. Tour Shiroyama Park

Shiroyama Park is a picturesque park in Kagoshima, known for the Shiroyama Observatory.

From this vantage point, one can observe panoramic views of the city. Moreover, this location holds historical significance as it was the site of the Satsuma Rebellion in 1887. Within the park, there is a cave known as Saigo Cave, associated with the local figure Saigo Takamori, who fought during the rebellion. This cave is said to be the location where he made his final stand.

2. Take a ferry ride

If you wish to enjoy the magnificent views of Sakurajima Volcano without engaging in a hike, consider taking a scenic ferry ride from Kagoshima Harbor to the island that hosts the volcano.

Ferries operate daily between these two points, with a journey time of approximately 15 minutes. Consequently, this method offers one of the best ways to appreciate the stunning landscape that Kyushu is celebrated for.

3. Walk around Sengan-en

Known as Iso-teien, Sengan-en is a beautiful garden complex in Kagoshima, believed to have been established in 1658. Historically, these gardens were envisioned by a Shimazu lord, and they remain as impressive today as they would have been in the past.

A stroll through the gardens typically takes about 30 minutes, or visitors can opt for a guided tour of the villa situated within the gardens, which also belongs to the Shimazu family.

Visitors may even enjoy tea in the villa while overlooking the exquisitely maintained grounds.

4. Attend Sogadon-no-Kasayaki

If you find yourself in Kagoshima in July, ensure you experience one of its standout events, the Sogadon-no-Kasayaki festival.

Commonly referred to as the Umbrella Burning Festival, this event features male residents walking to the Kotsuki-gawa River and igniting umbrellas.

This ritual is inspired by a legend in which two brothers wielded umbrellas as flaming torches in ancient times, weaving a captivating tale of rivalry and deception.

5. Explore Shoko Shuseikan

Shoko Shuseikan serves as a museum in Kagoshima and was once home to Japan’s first factory, established in the 1850s.

The museum showcases a collection of antiques associated with the prominent Shimazu family, featuring approximately 10,000 items, including exquisite calligraphy, ceramics, and glassware.

6. Visit Tsurumaru Castle

Tsurumaru Castle is recognized as the stronghold that belonged to the Shimazu family.

As with many historical castles in Japan, Tsurumaru Castle faced destruction in earlier eras; thus, only remnants such as the outer wall and moat remain.

Nonetheless, it is regarded as a significant monument within the city, making it worthwhile to visit, and it also hosts a small museum.

7. Trek to Sakurajima

Sakurajima is an active volcano that overlooks Kagoshima City, and it is accessible via a ferry ride from Kagoshima Harbor.

The hike to the primary lookout point takes approximately two hours; additionally, there are several smaller viewpoints along the route that provide stunning views of both the volcano and the city.

However, considering that this is an active volcano, it is essential to check its current status before planning your ascent.

8. Drink the local tipple

Kagoshima is well-known for its distinctive liquor, shochu, which bears similarities to vodka.

This beverage, often referred to as imo-jochu, is produced from sweet potatoes and is widely available throughout the city.

In Kagoshima, it is customarily consumed mixed with hot water, which may seem unconventional but allows the liquor to release its richer flavors.

9. Travel by train

While in Kyushu, embarking on a train journey is among the most rewarding experiences, as this region of Japan is renowned for its breathtaking scenery.

The Hisatsu Line is particularly popular, allowing travel to nearby locations such as Yoshimatsu and Hitoyoshi.

This journey enables you to appreciate the stunning landscapes without straying too far, making it ideal for day trips.

10. Kayak to Sakurajima

Sakurajima, the active volcano, is situated on a volcanic island overlooking Kagoshima.

You can opt for a ferry across to the island, or for those seeking adventure, consider kayaking across to Sakurajima.

This paddling journey takes about an hour and requires a decent level of fitness and agility. Nonetheless, experiencing the grandeur of Sakurajima from the water is an unforgettable experience.

11. Explore Reimeikan

The Reimeikan is an institution that provides insights into the historical narrative of the Satsuma Rebellion and is also recognized for its exhibitions of ancient Japanese arts and crafts, such as sword-making.

This facility is housed within the remnants of Kagoshima Castle, functioning similarly to a small museum, despite the majority of the original structure no longer being intact.

Nonetheless, it ranks among the most significant historical sites in the area, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives and occupations of Kagoshima’s inhabitants in bygone eras.

12. Visit the Kagoshima City Museum of Art

For those interested in the arts and crafts of Kagoshima, a visit to the Kagoshima City Museum of Art is essential.

This museum features numerous galleries dedicated to local artists, as well as an array of antiques and paintings dating back to the 16th century, including exquisite porcelain and woodblock prints.

It is also one of the prime locations to discover artworks dedicated to Sakurajima.

13. Try the local snacks

During the summer months in Kagoshima, sampling the local snacks and desserts can be a refreshing way to cool off.

A popular treat among locals is kakigori, a dessert made from finely shaved ice, topped with a mixture of sweetened condensed milk, fruits, jellies, and beans.

This combination may seem unusual, but it is a perfect choice for savoring during the hot summer days.

One of the most well-known establishments for these desserts in Kagoshima is Tenmonkan Mujyaki, famous for the polar bear statue positioned outside its entrance.

They also offer a signature version of kakigori that mirrors the polar bear theme.

14. Cycle to Sakurajima

For those seeking an invigorating workout while visiting Sakurajima, renting a bicycle is a fantastic option.

Surprisingly, many visitors are unaware that it is possible to cycle around the mountain, as there is a dedicated cycling path that stretches approximately 39 kilometers.

The route takes about four hours to complete, allowing for a thorough exploration of the stunning surroundings, including a viewpoint that overlooks the crater.

15. Tour the Museum of the Meiji Restoration

For those interested in delving deeper into Kagoshima’s history, a visit to the Museum of the Meiji Restoration is recommended.

This museum provides insights into the lifestyles of samurai in historical Japan, including details about sword-making and techniques.

A notable feature of the museum is its extensive English signage, which facilitates understanding of various aspects of the samurai education system and the Satsuma Rebellion that transpired in the city.