Experience breathtaking nature and rich history all at once! Here are five must-visit destinations to make the most of your Kagoshima trip. Discover the charm of this southern paradise and create unforgettable memories.
- Sakurajima — The Symbol of Kagoshima
- Sengan-en — A Historic Samurai Garden
- Yakusugi — Ancient Cedar Trees of Yakushima
- Amami Oshima — Untouched Nature and Island Culture
- Ibusuki Onsen — Relax with a Sand Bath
桜島 Sakurajima — The Symbol of Kagoshima
When people think of Kagoshima, Sakurajima is usually the first thing that comes to mind. This active volcano sits majestically in Kagoshima Bay, constantly puffing smoke into the sky. It’s just a 15-minute ferry ride from downtown Kagoshima, making it easily accessible for visitors.
The charm of Sakurajima is more than just its powerful scenery. At Nagisa Lava Trail Park, you’ll find Japan’s longest foot bath, stretching about 100 meters along the shoreline — perfect for relaxing your feet while enjoying ocean views. The Sakurajima Visitor Center is also worth a stop, offering easy-to-understand exhibits about the volcano’s history and local life. It’s a great learning spot for families with kids.
If you have time, a drive around the island is highly recommended. Along the way, you can stop at Yunohira Observatory for panoramic views of Kagoshima City and the surrounding bay. Don’t forget to try local specialties like Sakurajima radish and Sakurajima small oranges — they make great souvenirs too!
仙厳園 Sengan-en — A Historic Samurai Garden
Sengan-en is a beautiful Japanese-style garden built in the 17th century as the villa of the powerful Shimazu clan, rulers of the Satsuma Domain. The garden cleverly uses Sakurajima as a backdrop, blending traditional Japanese landscaping with touches of Western influence.
Inside Sengan-en, you can tour the historic residence and museum to learn about the Shimazu family’s legacy and the history of Satsuma. The garden is stunning year-round, with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful leaves in autumn.
You’ll also find restaurants and souvenir shops within the grounds, where you can enjoy Kagoshima’s local dishes and buy traditional crafts. Sengan-en has also been used as a filming location for historical TV dramas, making it a favorite for history fans. Joining a guided tour is a good idea if you want to discover hidden stories behind the garden’s paths and buildings.
屋久杉 Yakusugi — Ancient Cedar Trees of Yakushima
Yakushima, a subtropical island south of Kagoshima’s mainland, is a registered UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. It’s famous for its ancient cedar trees called Yakusugi, many of which are thousands of years old. Visitors from all over the world come to feel the power of this primeval forest.
The most famous cedar is the Jomon Sugi, estimated to be over 7,000 years old. To reach it, you’ll hike about five hours one way through a mystical mossy forest. Although the trail is challenging, standing before this giant tree makes all your effort worthwhile. It’s a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Besides Jomon Sugi, the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is another highlight. This lush green forest is said to have inspired the Studio Ghibli film Princess Mononoke. Walking through its moss-covered paths feels like stepping into a fantasy world.
For safety and deeper insights, it’s best to join an eco-tour with a local guide. They’ll help you discover the forest’s secrets while keeping your trek safe and fun. Be sure to bring sturdy shoes, a rain jacket, and a waterproof smartphone case to capture amazing memories without worry.
The photo shows a banyan tree in Amami.
奄美大島 Amami Oshima — Untouched Nature and Island Culture
Located about 380 kilometers south of Kagoshima’s mainland, Amami Oshima is a paradise known for its crystal-clear ocean, coral reefs, and rich island culture. With the arrival of low-cost airlines, visiting this island has become much easier.
The biggest draw is its emerald green waters. You can swim, snorkel, or dive to explore vibrant coral reefs — you might even spot sea turtles! Popular beaches like Ohama Seaside Park have good facilities, making them safe for families too.
A mangrove kayaking tour is another must-try activity. Paddle through Japan’s largest mangrove forest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere surrounded by rare plants and birds. When night falls, don’t miss stargazing — the clear island skies offer an unforgettable view of the Milky Way.
Amami is also rich in local culture. Enjoy traditional shima-uta folk songs, taste locally made brown sugar shochu, and meet the warm-hearted islanders. Here, time moves slowly — it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge.
指宿温泉(指宿砂蒸し温泉) Ibusuki Onsen — Relax with a Sand Bath
Ibusuki Onsen is Kagoshima’s best-known hot spring resort, famous for its unique sunamushi (sand steam bath). Here, you lie down on the beach while warm sand heated by natural hot spring steam covers your body. The gentle heat helps improve circulation and detoxifies your body, making it especially popular with women looking for beauty and wellness benefits.
Listening to the waves while being buried in warm sand is a one-of-a-kind experience that soothes both body and mind. Many hotels and ryokans in Ibusuki offer sand baths as part of their stay packages, so you can enjoy this special treatment anytime during your visit.
The onsen water here is soft and gentle on the skin, leaving it smooth and refreshed after bathing. Ibusuki is also near scenic spots like Mount Kaimon, known as “Satsuma Fuji” for its elegant shape, and Cape Nagasakibana, the southernmost point of the Satsuma Peninsula.
A relaxing sand bath and breathtaking coastal views make Ibusuki the perfect place to unwind. And if you want to capture your special moments worry-free, don’t forget a waterproof smartphone case — it’s a small product that makes a big difference on your trip.
Kagoshima is full of amazing places where you can enjoy stunning nature, rich history, and unique local culture — not only on the mainland but also on its islands. Whether you want to feel the power of Sakurajima, explore the elegant Sengan-en gardens, walk among Yakushima’s ancient cedars, discover the hidden charm of Amami Oshima, or relax in a sand bath at Ibusuki Onsen, you’ll find something special here.
Friendly locals, delicious regional food, and breathtaking scenery will make your trip to Kagoshima unforgettable. Take your time, soak up the warm atmosphere, and enjoy an adventure you’ll treasure forever.
九州まとめ
hhhh
熊本
aaa
宮崎県(Miyazaki) : https://riruliru.com/2025/07/21/miyazaki/
大分県
aaa
長崎県
aaa
佐賀県
aaa
福岡県
aaa
沖縄県
aaa
ホームページ
https://riruliru.com/
コメント