Satsuma
,Satsuma is a city located in the Kagoshima Prefecture of Japan, known for its agricultural industry. The region is famous for producing high-quality satsuma mandarins, which are highly sought after both domestically and internationally. Satsuma also boasts beautiful natural scenery, with mountains, rivers, and hot springs attracting many visitors.
The city has a rich history, with traditional crafts and local festivals highlighting its cultural heritage.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Eego o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Satsuma's Nature
morning
:Start your day with a hike at the beautiful Kirishima National Park. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning landscapes while spotting local wildlife.
afternoon
:Visit the Satsuma Denshichi House to learn about the region's rich heritage. Engage in a traditional craft workshop to create your own Satsuma pottery.
evening
:Relax at a local onsen and soak in the natural hot springs. Dine at a nearby izakaya and savor authentic Satsuma cuisine.
Cultural Experience in Satsuma
morning
:Begin your day by visiting the ancient Satsuma Jinja Shrine. Admire the intricate architecture and offer your wishes.
afternoon
:Head to the Satsuma Kiriko Museum to observe beautiful glass artworks. Participate in a glass-making demonstration.
evening
:Explore the local night market for unique souvenirs and street food. Experience a traditional tea ceremony at a nearby tea house.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites, including ancient temples and shrines.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, hot springs, and coastline.
- Mild climate that supports agriculture and outdoor activities.
- Delicious local cuisine, particularly known for Satsuma sweet potatoes and seafood.
- Strong local community and friendly atmosphere.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities outside of traditional sectors.
- Transportation can be less convenient compared to larger cities.
- Risk of natural disasters, such as typhoons and earthquakes.
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options compared to urban centers.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers in rural areas.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking Mount Kirishima
Enjoy a rewarding hike and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Visiting Kagoshima City Aquarium
Explore the diverse marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Exploring Senganen Garden
Stroll through beautiful traditional gardens with views of Sakurajima volcano.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Satsuma with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Mount Kirishima
Offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the beautiful volcanic landscapes.
Yunohira Observatory
Provides excellent views of the volcanic terrain and the surrounding landscape.
Kagoshima City Observatory
Offers panoramic views of Kagoshima City and the bay, including the iconic Sakurajima volcano.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Satsuma Shochu
A must-try local beverage, Satsuma Shochu is a traditional distilled liquor with a rich history. Made from sweet potatoes and rice, it offers a unique flavor profile and is best enjoyed at local izakayas.
Must-Try!
Satsuma Age
Satsuma Age, a type of deep-fried fish cake, is a beloved local snack known for its crispy texture and savory taste. It can be found at various street food stalls and markets throughout Satsuma.
Makizushi
Makizushi, a regional specialty, consists of sushi rice, fresh fish, and vegetables rolled in seaweed. It's a delightful dish available at numerous sushi eateries and izakayas in Satsuma.
Imo-Jochu Nabe
Imo-Jochu Nabe is a comforting hot pot dish featuring local vegetables, tofu, and thinly sliced pork simmered in a flavorful sweet potato-based broth. It's a popular winter delicacy in Satsuma.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Satsuma better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Satsuma Market
The vibrant Satsuma Market is a hub of culinary treasures, offering an abundance of fresh seafood, local produce, and artisanal food products. Visitors can sample various street foods such as grilled skewers, takoyaki, and freshly prepared tempura.
Chiran Night Market
Every weekend, the Chiran Night Market comes alive with a diverse array of street food vendors showcasing regional delights. From sizzling yakitori to aromatic steamed buns, this market is a haven for food enthusiasts.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for elders
In Satsuma, Japan, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures. It is customary to bow when greeting older individuals and to listen attentively to their wisdom and advice.
Observing traditional customs
Visitors to Satsuma should be mindful of traditional customs such as removing shoes before entering a home, dressing modestly, and observing proper table manners. Respecting these customs demonstrates appreciation for the local culture.
Maintaining cleanliness
In Satsuma, cleanliness is highly valued. It is important to keep public spaces tidy, dispose of litter properly, and maintain personal hygiene. By doing so, visitors show consideration for the community and its surroundings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Satsuma with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Satsuma. It is generally not expected or required to tip in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Payment
In Satsuma, Japan, payment is usually made in cash, and credit cards are widely accepted in many establishments. Mobile payment methods such as IC cards and digital wallets are also becoming increasingly popular.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Satsuma.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Best time to visit Satsuma, Japan. Cherry blossoms bloom, and pleasant weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities.
Summer
Hot and humid with occasional typhoons. Ideal for beach activities and water sports.
Autumn
Mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Perfect for enjoying the stunning autumn colors.
Winter
Cool and dry, with occasional snowfall. Great for enjoying hot springs and winter festivals.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Kirishima-Yaku National Park
A vast national park known for its volcanic landscape, lush forests, and numerous hiking trails, suitable for various skill levels.
Kagoshima City Viewpoint
A popular hiking area that offers stunning views of Kagoshima City and Sakurajima volcano, with well-marked trails.
Ebino Kogen
A scenic area with multiple hiking options, featuring beautiful plateaus and access to hot springs, perfect for nature lovers.
Mt. Kamikoshiki
A moderate hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding area and the nearby islands of the Satsuma region.
Chiran Samurai Residence
While not a traditional hiking spot, the area features beautiful walking paths among historical samurai residences and gardens.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Satsuma through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Satsuma by plane.
Kumamoto Airport (KMJ)
Kumamoto Airport is located approximately 80 km from Satsuma and serves both domestic and international flights.
Kagoshima Airport (KOJ)
Kagoshima Airport is located about 50 km from Satsuma, providing a mix of domestic and limited international flights.
Nagasaki Airport (NGS)
Nagasaki Airport is situated around 140 km from Satsuma, offering domestic services and some international routes.
Fukuoka Airport (FUK)
Fukuoka Airport is approximately 180 km from Satsuma and is one of the largest international airports serving the Kyushu region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Japanese
The majority ethnic group in Satsuma, primarily consisting of native Japanese people.
Brahmin
A small population of Brahmin descendants found due to historical trade and cultural exchanges.
Foreign Residents
A diverse group of expatriates and foreign nationals, including those from nearby Asian countries.
Burakumin
A social minority group in Japan, historically marginalized but contributing to the local culture.
The Soul of Satsuma
Discover the essence of Satsuma through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball
Baseball is immensely popular in Satsuma, with many local teams and schools having strong programs. The sport is considered a vital part of the community's culture.
Soccer
Soccer has seen a growing following in Satsuma, with youth leagues and school competitions fostering interest among young players.
Kendo
Kendo, the traditional Japanese martial art of swordsmanship, is practiced widely in Satsuma, often taught in schools and dojo across the region.
Softball
Softball is popular, especially among women, with many local leagues and school teams competing regularly.
Rugby
Rugby has been gaining traction in Satsuma, with local clubs and school programs promoting the sport among students.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While seafood plays a prominent role in Satsuma's culinary scene, many restaurants and izakayas offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look out for plant-based sushi rolls, vegetable tempura, and tofu-based dishes.
Gluten-Free Choices
Travelers with gluten sensitivity can enjoy dishes such as sashimi, yakitori (grilled skewers), and hot pot meals. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements to the establishments, and they are often accommodating to provide suitable options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Satsuma with these cultural adventures.
