Things To Do
in Kagoshima
Kagoshima is a city located in the southern part of Kyushu Island in Japan. It is known for its picturesque scenery with views of the active volcano, Sakurajima, across the bay. The city has a rich history and is famous for being the birthplace of Saigo Takamori, one of the most influential samurai in Japanese history.
Kagoshima is also known for its unique cuisine, such as Kurobuta pork and Satsuma-age fish cake.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike up Sakurajima for stunning views of the volcano. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes.
After hiking, visit the Sakurajima Visitor Center to learn about the volcano's history and geology. Enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant featuring local seafood.
Wind down at an onsen with views of Sakurajima, soothing your muscles from the day's hike. Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in a rooftop setting.
Begin your day at the historic Sengan-en Garden with its beautiful greenery and views of Sakurajima. Don't forget to explore the adjoining Shoko Shuseikan Museum.
Head to the Kagoshima City Museum of Art to appreciate local artistic treasures. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade afterward.
Experience an authentic kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, enjoying seasonal ingredients. As the sun sets, relax in a calm atmosphere filled with traditional Japanese aesthetics.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including volcanic landscapes and coastal views.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditional festivals.
- Famous for local specialties such as black pork and sweet potatoes.
- Mild climate, making it suitable for year-round tourism.
- Access to Sakurajima volcano and hot springs.
- Risk of volcanic activity due to proximity to active volcanoes.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Higher vulnerability to natural disasters like typhoons.
- Less international exposure and amenities compared to major urban centers.
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
Best Activities in Kagoshima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the volcanic island of Sakurajima, take a ferry ride, and enjoy hiking trails with stunning views of the volcano.
Experience hiking, hot springs, and beautiful natural landscapes in Kirishima National Park, known for its volcanic peaks and scenic trails.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Yakushima Island, known for its ancient cedar forests, hiking opportunities, and unique wildlife.
Enjoy beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports at popular beaches like Nagashima and Kinko Bay.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kagoshima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kagoshima
Visit one of these nice places.
An active volcano across Kinko Bay offering stunning views of the bay and the volcano.
A park with panoramic views of Kagoshima city, Sakurajima, and the coastline.
A traditional Japanese garden with views of Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay.
Food in Kagoshima
Kagoshima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A dish of fresh raw kibinago, a small silver fish, thinly sliced and served with soy sauce and grated ginger. Best enjoyed at local seafood restaurants and izakayas, such as Kibinago Tei.
Must-Try!
A hearty ramen featuring a rich and creamy pork broth, often served with melt-in-your-mouth Kagoshima Kurobuta pork. Try it at popular ramen shops like Furusato Ramen.
A deep-fried fish cake made from minced fish and vegetables, typically found in bento boxes at food stalls or at specialty shops like Yamako.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kagoshima better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide range of fresh seafood, including the famous Kibinago fish. Visitors can sample various seafood dishes, sushi, and sashimi at the market stalls.
Located in the heart of Kagoshima City, this lively street is lined with food stalls and small eateries offering local specialties like yakitori (grilled skewered chicken), kibinago skewers, and other regional delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kagoshima, it is common to greet others with a bow, especially when meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting. The depth of the bow can vary depending on the level of respect and familiarity.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments in Kagoshima. This shows respect for the space and cleanliness of the indoor environment.
Personal space is valued in Kagoshima, so it's important to be mindful of physical proximity and avoid standing too close to others, especially in crowded public places.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kagoshima with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kagoshima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Kagoshima, Japan. In most situations, tipping is neither expected nor required. In fact, it may be considered rude in some instances.
In Kagoshima, Japan, cash is the most common form of payment. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in urban areas and major establishments. It’s important to note that some smaller businesses and traditional establishments may only accept cash, so it’s advisable to carry sufficient yen when visiting these places.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kagoshima.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossom viewing. Mild weather and popular festivals such as Ohara Matsuri and Hanami.
Warm and humid weather with occasional typhoons. Perfect for beach activities and enjoying Kagoshima's diverse seafood.
Pleasant temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. Ideal for hiking and exploring Kagoshima's natural beauty.
Cool weather with limited snowfall. Great for enjoying hot springs and seasonal cuisine such as shabu-shabu and nabe.
Kagoshima at Night
Hiking in Kagoshima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An active volcano and prominent symbol of Kagoshima, offering various hiking trails with stunning views of Sakurajima, Kagoshima Bay, and the city.
A beautiful park with numerous hiking trails, including the hike to Mount Kirishima. The area features volcanic landscapes, lakes, and diverse flora.
A park located near the city center, featuring a hiking trail up to Shiroyama Hill, which provides panoramic views of Kagoshima and the surrounding area.
Often referred to as 'Satsuma Fuji', this mountain has a well-maintained trail that leads to the summit, rewarding hikers with spectacular vistas.
A serene location with trails that pass through farms and fields, perfect for leisurely hikes with rural landscapes and views of the surrounding mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kagoshima through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kagoshima by plane.
The main airport serving Kagoshima, Japan, with domestic and limited international flights.
The main airport serving Naha, Okinawa Prefecture, approximately 384 km from Kagoshima, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 110 km from Kagoshima, this airport services the Kumamoto region with domestic and some international flights.
Situated about 250 km from Kagoshima, it is one of Japan's busiest airports, providing extensive domestic and international connections.
Approximately 135 km from Kagoshima, this airport serves the Miyazaki region with domestic flights and some regional international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kagoshima, representing the predominant culture and population.
A significant minority group, often including descendants of residents from the Korean Peninsula.
Another minority group, with ties to historical trade and migration, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A growing demographic group, largely due to labor migration and international marriages.
Includes various groups from countries around the world, such as Brazil, the United States, and others.
The Soul of Kagoshima
Discover the essence of Kagoshima through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Kagoshima, with many local teams and schools participating in competitions.
Soccer has a strong following in Kagoshima, with various amateur and professional leagues contributing to its popularity.
Rugby is another sport that has gained popularity in Kagoshima, with both junior and senior leagues actively participating.
Athletics, including track and field events, is widely practiced in schools and local clubs throughout Kagoshima.
Various forms of martial arts such as judo and karate are popular in Kagoshima, with many dojos available for training.
Cycling is a favored pastime in Kagoshima, with scenic routes attracting both amateur cyclists and more serious competitors.
Sports such as Sumo and Kendo have a cultural significance in Kagoshima, with events and competitions often held.
Given its coastal location, fishing is a popular recreational activity in Kagoshima, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kagoshima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Kagoshima's traditional cuisine is meat and seafood-focused, many restaurants and cafes in urban areas offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and fresh salads. It's best to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure suitable options.
Though gluten-free awareness is growing, it may still be challenging to find dedicated gluten-free establishments. However, some restaurants can accommodate by offering dishes like sashimi, grilled meats, and rice-based items. Communication with the staff regarding dietary restrictions is essential for a seamless dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kagoshima with these cultural adventures.
