Things To Do
in Satsumasendai
Satsumasendai is a city located in Kagoshima Prefecture, on the island of Kyushu in Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, hot springs, and lush green forests. The city has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with several historical sites and cultural attractions for visitors to explore.
Satsumasendai is also famous for its production of Satsuma mandarins, a sweet and juicy citrus fruit that is popular throughout Japan.
- "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 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Satsumasendai's historic sites, such as the old samurai district. Capture stunning photographs of traditional Japanese architecture.
Enjoy a local lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring authentic regional dishes. Afterward, explore the Satsuma Kiriko glass museum to appreciate beautiful craftsmanship.
Relax at a local café and reflect on your day. Try some locally brewed Satsuma sake to wind down.
Begin your day hiking the scenic trails of Mt. Kirishima for panoramic views of the area. Bring your camera for the beautiful landscapes you'll encounter.
Have a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon visiting the stunning waterfalls nearby.
Return to the city and dine at a restaurant specializing in fresh seafood. Enjoy the evening walk along the waterfront, taking in the beautiful sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Mild climate, making it suitable for agriculture.
- Famous for its citrus fruits, particularly Satsumas.
- Strong community spirit and local festivals.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Potential for natural disasters such as typhoons.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent.
- Fewer amenities and entertainment options than urban areas.
- Aging population leading to demographic challenges.
Best Activities in Satsumasendai
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy hiking, camping, and birdwatching in this beautiful national park known for its volcanic landscape and diverse flora and fauna.
Explore a variety of marine life and enjoy dolphin shows at this popular aquarium located in Kagoshima, near Satsumasendai.
Visit the well-preserved samurai houses and gardens in Chiran to learn about the samurai history and culture of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Satsumasendai with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Satsumasendai
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for photographers.
Features beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and overlooks the Sendai River, providing great photo opportunities.
A scenic and historic site with interesting rock formations and lovely views of the countryside.
Food in Satsumasendai
Satsumasendai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kibinago, or silver-stripe herring, is a popular local dish often served as sashimi or in a vinegar-based preparation. Its delicate flavor and tender texture make it a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Look for it at traditional seafood restaurants like Uomasa.
Must-Try!
Satsumasendai’s take on tonkotsu ramen features rich, creamy pork bone broth and thin, straight noodles. Head to Ramen Nagomi for a bowl of this hearty and satisfying dish.
Satsuma-age is a type of deep-fried fish cake made with minced fish and various ingredients. It's a beloved snack in Satsumasendai, and you can sample some of the best at local street food stalls around the city.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Satsumasendai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample an array of street foods, including yakitori (grilled skewered chicken), takoyaki (octopus balls), and taiyaki (fish-shaped cake filled with sweet or savory fillings).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Satsumasendai, it is common to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone, especially when meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting.
It is polite to remove your shoes before entering someone's home, a traditional Japanese custom aimed at keeping the living space clean and respecting the cleanliness of the indoor environment.
In public places such as trains, buses, and restaurants, it is important to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, and avoid causing any disturbance to others around you.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Satsumasendai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Satsumasendai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Satsumasendai. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Satsumasendai, Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit and debit cards may also be accepted in larger establishments, but it's always a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller businesses and local vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Satsumasendai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Satsumasendai to enjoy the cherry blossoms and pleasant weather.
Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rainfall. It's a good time for outdoor activities and festivals.
Ideal for experiencing the beautiful autumn foliage and comfortable temperatures.
Best time for enjoying winter sports and festivals, but it can get quite cold.
Satsumasendai at Night
Hiking in Satsumasendai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An active volcano and a prominent symbol of Kagoshima. Offers hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding area and the Sakurajima Lava Trail.
A beautiful national park featuring lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and multiple hiking trails. Popular spots include Mount Karakuni and Mount Kirishima.
Known for its ancient cedar forests and trails, Yaku Island offers serene hiking experiences and the famous Yakushima UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hiking along the coastal areas provides scenic views of the bay and nearby islands, with paths that are suitable for various skill levels.
A mountain located north of Satsumasendai, known for its challenging trails and rewarding panoramic views from the summit.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Satsumasendai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Satsumasendai by plane.
The nearest major airport serving Kagoshima Prefecture, located approximately 48 km away from Satsumasendai.
An international airport located about 106 km from Satsumasendai, serving the Miyazaki region.
A significant international airport located roughly 138 km to the northwest of Satsumasendai, providing various domestic and international flights.
Located about 122 km northwest of Satsumasendai, it serves as a regional hub for Kumamoto Prefecture.
An international airport located approximately 178 km west of Satsumasendai, serving Nagasaki Prefecture and its surroundings.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Satsumasendai, consisting mainly of individuals with Japanese heritage.
A notable minority group in the area, primarily consisting of residents of Korean descent.
Another minority group in Satsumasendai, comprising residents with Chinese heritage.
Includes various other Asian ethnicities represented in smaller numbers.
A small community of expatriates from Western countries living in the area.
The Soul of Satsumasendai
Discover the essence of Satsumasendai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is very popular in Satsumasendai, with many local teams and schools participating in competitions throughout the region.
Football has a strong following in Satsumasendai, with many enthusiasts enjoying both watching and playing the sport.
Basketball is widely played among the youth in Satsumasendai, with local schools often having competitive teams.
Various forms of martial arts, such as Judo and Karate, are practiced in Satsumasendai, reflecting Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Running events, including marathons and fun runs, are popular in the area, promoting health and community engagement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Satsumasendai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Satsumasendai's traditional cuisine leans heavily towards seafood and pork, several restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for establishments that serve tofu-based dishes, fresh salads, and vegetable tempura.
Individuals following a gluten-free diet will find options such as sashimi, grilled meats, and rice-based dishes readily available. Communicating dietary restrictions clearly to restaurant staff can help in accommodating special dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Satsumasendai with these cultural adventures.
