Name: Sakurajima
Address: Sakurajima Yokoyama-cho, Kagoshima City, and surrounding areas
Access: 5-minute walk from Suizokukan-guchi tram stop to the ferry terminal, then a 15-minute ferry ride
40 Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Kagoshima Prefecture! From Historical Sites of the Late Edo Period to the Pristine Nature of Remote Islands
Kagoshima Prefecture is famously known as the birthplace of many key figures of the Meiji Restoration. Steeped in the romance of the late Edo period, Kagoshima offers a wealth of historical sightseeing spots, such as Kirishima Onsen, visited by Ryoma Sakamoto and his wife, and Amami Oshima, where Saigo Takamori, known as "Segodon," once went into hiding. The area is also rich in natural attractions, including Sakurajima, visible from Kagoshima City, Yakushima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Ibusuki Onsen, renowned for its sand baths.
This article introduces 40 highly recommended sightseeing spots in Kagoshima Prefecture
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40 Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Kagoshima Prefecture! From Historical Sites of the Late Edo Period to the Pristine Nature of Remote Islands
- 1. Sakurajima (Kagoshima City)
- 2. Tenmonkan (Kagoshima City)
- 3. Sengan-en & Shoko Shuseikan Museum (Kagoshima City)
- 4. Shiroyama Park (Kagoshima City)
- 5. Chiran (Minamikyushu City)
- 6. Kamafuta Shrine (Minamikyushu City)
- 7. Kirishima Shrine (Kirishima City)
- 8. Kirishima Onsen Village (Kirishima City)
- 9. Shiobitashi Onsen Ryoma Park (Kirishima City)
- 10. Ibusuki Onsen (Ibusuki City)
- 11. Sakurajima Lava Nagisa Park & Footbath (Kagoshima City)
- 12. Yakushima (Yakushima Town)
- 13. Tanegashima (Nishinoomote City)
- 14. Amami Oshima (Amami City)
- 15. Yoron Island (Yoron Town)
- 16. Kikaijima (Kikai Town)
- 17. Okinoerabu Island (Wadomari Town)
- 18. Tokunoshima (Tokunoshima Town)
- 19. Cape Sata (Minamiosumi Town)
- 20. Izumi Fumoto Samurai Residences (Izumi City)
- 21. Mount Kaimon (Ibusuki City)
- 22. Bandokorobana Nature Park (Minamikyushu City)
- 23. Nagasakibana (Ibusuki City)
- 24. Sogi Falls (Isa City)
- 25. Ogawa Falls (Minamiosumi Town)
- 26. Ishibashi Memorial Park (Kagoshima City)
- 27. Koshikijima Islands (Satsumasendai City)
- 28. Imuta Pond (Satsumasendai City)
- 29. Kagomma Furusato Yatai Village (Kagoshima City)
- 30. Terayama Charcoal Kiln Ruins (Kagoshima City)
- 31. Makurazaki (Makurazaki City)
- 32. Bonotsu (Minamisatsuma City)
- 33. Fukiagehama Beach (Hioki City)
- 34. Kamo Giant Camphor Tree (Aira City)
- 35. Maruike Spring (Yusui Town)
- 36. Tosenkyo Somen Nagashi (Ibusuki City)
- 37. Barrel Valley PRAHA & GEN (Kirishima City)
- 38. Kanoya Rose Garden (Kanoya City)
- 39. Imaizumi Shimazu Residence Site (Ibusuki City)
- 40. Sekiyoshi Sluice Gate of Yoshino Leat (Kagoshima City)
- Enjoy Kagoshima’s History, Hot Springs, and Gourmet Delights
1. Sakurajima (Kagoshima City)
Sakurajima, standing majestically in front of Kagoshima City, is a true symbol of the prefecture. About 100 years ago, it was genuinely an "island," but the eruption in 1914 connected it to the Osumi Peninsula.
A ferry ride from Kagoshima Port takes only about 15 minutes to reach Sakurajima. Despite being one of the world's most active volcanoes, the island is home to around 5,000 residents. It's known for delicious local specialties like Sakurajima daikon radishes, yellowtail, and amberjack. You can also enjoy hot springs and sea fishing here.
2. Tenmonkan (Kagoshima City)
Tenmonkan is Kagoshima's bustling downtown area. It’s filled with stylish restaurants, cafes, Kagoshima ramen, kurobuta shabu-shabu, and, of course, the famous "shirokuma" shaved ice dessert.
The area also boasts boutiques, shopping complexes, and cinemas, drawing crowds of locals and tourists both day and night. While Kagoshima Chuo Station has seen development thanks to the Kyushu Shinkansen, Tenmonkan remains the best place to enjoy Kagoshima’s nightlife.
Name: Tenmonkan
Address: Sennichi-cho and surrounding areas, Kagoshima City
Access: Get off at Tenmonkan-dori tram stop
3. Sengan-en & Shoko Shuseikan Museum (Kagoshima City)
Located on the northeastern coast of Kagoshima City, Sengan-en is the villa of the Shimazu family, the lords of the Satsuma domain. Also known as Iso Garden, its breathtaking borrowed landscape is a major highlight. Unlike traditional Japanese gardens with artificial ponds and mounds, Sengan-en uses Kinko Bay and Sakurajima as its backdrop, creating a grand daimyo garden.
Adjacent to Sengan-en is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed "Old Shuseikan." Built by Shimazu Nariakira, a feudal lord of the late Edo period, it was a cluster of Western-style factories, including the remains of a reverberatory furnace and a spinning engineer’s residence. Among these, the former machine factory, now open as the Shoko Shuseikan Museum, is a must-see. It displays numerous artifacts and works related to the Shimazu family and the modernization of Satsuma.
Name: Sengan-en & Shoko Shuseikan Museum
Address: 9700-1 Yoshino-cho, Kagoshima City
Access: Take the "Machimeguri Bus" from JR Kagoshima Chuo Station and get off at "Sengan-en Mae"
4. Shiroyama Park (Kagoshima City)
The site of Tsurumaru Castle, the former residence of the Shimazu clan, and Shiroyama Park behind it are essential spots for Kagoshima tourism. From the Shiroyama Observation Deck at the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of Kagoshima City, Kinko Bay, and Sakurajima.
Shiroyama was also where Saigo Takamori and his troops made their final stand during the Satsuma Rebellion. The area is dotted with historic landmarks, such as Saigo Cave, the Satsuma Army’s headquarters, and the Monument to Saigo’s Last Stand.
At the base, the stone walls of Tsurumaru Castle remain, along with other tourist attractions like the Reimeikan Museum and the site of the Private School. Exploring the entire Shiroyama Park area thoroughly could easily take half a day.
Name: Shiroyama Park
Address: Shiroyama-cho, Kagoshima City
Access: 10-minute walk from Shiyakusho-mae tram stop
5. Chiran (Minamikyushu City)
Located in the inland southern part of the Satsuma Peninsula, Chiran is a popular tourist area. Visitors usually come to this town for two main reasons:
1. The former Chiran Airfield, situated on a hill at the edge of the town. This was the site from which many kamikaze pilots departed during the final stages of World War II. The Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots now stands here, housing photographs, personal belongings, and other artifacts of the pilots.
2. The Chiran Samurai Residence Street, part of the Satsuma domain. This street is lined with stone walls and hedges, and many traditional "Futatsuya" houses remain. While most of these homes are still private residences, several open their gardens to visitors.
Chiran is a destination that attracts visitors year-round, offering a glimpse into Edo-period townscapes and the poignant memories of war.
Name: Chiran
Address: Chiran Town, Minamikyushu City
Access: 1 hour and 20 minutes by bus from JR Kagoshima Chuo Station to Chiran
6. Kamafuta Shrine (Minamikyushu City)
Kamafuta Shrine, officially known as "Itate Hyozu Shrine," is a small shrine located on a cape along the southern coast of the Satsuma Peninsula. It is famous for its unique method of worship.
Visitors balance a pot lid on their heads and walk about 10 meters from the torii gate to the shrine to make their wishes. Once dedicated to the god of martial arts, the shrine is now a popular power spot, particularly among athletes, with even famous sports figures making visits.
In addition, the shrine offers other attractions like "Kamafuta throwing" (a game similar to throwing dishes) and various good luck charms. You can make wishes for things beyond competitions, so it’s a great stop during your Satsuma Peninsula tour.
Name: Kamafuta Shrine (Itate Hyozu Shrine)
Address: 6827 Beppu, Ei Town, Minamikyushu City
Access: 15-minute walk from Ei-Ōkawa Station on the JR Ibusuki Makurazaki Line
7. Kirishima Shrine (Kirishima City)
Kirishima Shrine, located on Mount Kirishima, is a significant religious site tied to Japan's myth of the descent of Ninigi-no-Mikoto, a deity sent by Amaterasu. There are two theories about where this event occurred: Takachiho in Miyazaki Prefecture or Takachiho Peak in the Kirishima mountain range.
This shrine, with Mount Kirishima as its sacred body, is one of Kagoshima’s top temple and shrine attractions. The buildings, donated by the Satsuma domain lords during the Edo period, are designated as Important Cultural Properties. Their luxurious and intricate decorations have earned the shrine the nickname “Nikko of the West.”
Name: Kirishima Shrine
Address: 2608-5 Kirishima Taguchi, Kirishima City
Access: About 10 minutes by bus from JR Nippo Main Line Kirishima Jingu Station
8. Kirishima Onsen Village (Kirishima City)
Located on the slopes of the Kirishima mountain range, known for its active volcanic activity, Kirishima Onsen Village is a collection of high-quality hot springs. The group of springs, extending from Yusui Town to Kirishima City, is collectively known as Kirishima Onsen Village.
Many of the hot springs date back to the mid to late Edo period. Among them, Maruo Onsen, which opened in 1819, is the largest and serves as the center of the area. Hot springs visited by historical figures such as Ryoma Sakamoto and Saigo Takamori add to the region's appeal, offering both accommodations and historical sightseeing opportunities.
9. Shiobitashi Onsen Ryoma Park (Kirishima City)
Southwest of Kirishima Onsen Village lies the Shinkawa Valley Onsen Village, stretching along the middle and lower reaches of the Amagigawa River.
One particularly famous hot spring is Shiobitashi Onsen, visited by Ryoma Sakamoto and his wife Oryo during Japan's first honeymoon. Although the ryokan is no longer there, the area has been developed into a park and remains a popular tourist spot.
The park features a day-use bathhouse with separate baths for men ("Ryoma's Bath") and women ("Oryo's Bath"), as well as a free footbath outside called "Ryoma and Oryo's Matchmaking Footbath."
Name: Shiobitashi Onsen Ryoma Park
Address: 3606 Shukukubota, Makizono Town, Kirishima City
Access: From JR Nippo Main Line Kokubu Station, take a bus to "Shiobitashi Onsen" stop
10. Ibusuki Onsen (Ibusuki City)
When it comes to hot springs in Kagoshima, many think of Ibusuki, famous for its sand baths. Located near the southern tip of the Satsuma Peninsula, the Ibusuki area boasts approximately 500 hot spring sources.
Sand baths involve burying your body in sand heated by underground hot springs, creating a natural sauna-like experience. This treatment, combined with the weight of the sand, is said to promote blood circulation and detoxification.
Ibusuki also has traditional hot springs, including Nigoriyu near Ibusuki Station, which was once used by the lords of the Satsuma domain. If you visit Kagoshima, the sand baths of Ibusuki are a must-try experience.
Name: Ibusuki Onsen
Address: Yunohama and surrounding areas, Ibusuki City
Access: Bus from JR Ibusuki Makurazaki Line Ibusuki Station, or Ibusuki-Yamagawa Line shuttle from Kagoshima Airport
11. Sakurajima Lava Nagisa Park & Footbath (Kagoshima City)
Located on the western edge of Sakurajima, this park offers stunning views of Kinko Bay and Sakurajima itself.
The park features lawns, gazebos, walking paths, and a fishing area, all in a well-maintained, comfortable setting. Visitors can enjoy a natural hot spring, sourced from about 1,000 meters underground, at one of Japan’s largest footbaths, stretching 100 meters. Towels are also available for purchase at the nearby Sakurajima Visitor Center or Rainbow Sakurajima Lodge.
Name: Sakurajima Lava Nagisa Park & Footbath
Address: 1722-3 Sakurajima Yokoyama Town, Kagoshima City
Access: About a 10-minute walk from the Sakurajima Ferry Terminal
12. Yakushima (Yakushima Town)
Yakushima is famous as a world-renowned tourist destination registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the seventh-largest island in Japan (excluding the four main islands), with about 21% of its area designated as a World Natural Heritage site.
The island’s highlights include ancient cedar trees like Jomon Sugi and Wilson’s Stump, which require serious trekking to visit. With towering mountains, dense forests, valleys, and wetlands, the island’s rich vegetation is a key attraction. Beyond the Yakusugi trees, Yakushima is filled with countless natural wonders.
Around the ports and airport, visitors can enjoy accommodations and restaurants offering fresh seafood. A short stay of just one or two nights isn't nearly enough to fully experience Yakushima’s beauty.
Name: Yakushima
Address: Yakushima Town, Kumage District
Access: By ferry from Kagoshima Port, or by plane from Kagoshima Airport, Fukuoka Airport, or Itami Airport to Yakushima Airport
Official Site: http://yakukan.jp/
13. Tanegashima (Nishinoomote City)
Tanegashima is often associated with rockets and the introduction of firearms in Japan. Unlike the round and rugged Yakushima, Tanegashima is relatively flat and elongated.
The island features modern scientific attractions related to the Tanegashima Space Center, historical sites connected to matchlock guns, and stunning natural landmarks such as Cape Kadokura and Chikura-no-Iwaya. Its north-south length also offers breathtaking views of both sunrise and sunset.
Name: Tanegashima
Address: Nishinoomote City, Nakatane Town, Minamitane Town (Kumage District)
Access: By ferry from Kagoshima Port, or by plane from Kagoshima Airport to Tanegashima Airport
14. Amami Oshima (Amami City)
Located closer to Okinawa than to mainland Kyushu, Amami Oshima is an island blessed with vibrant blue seas and lush forests, boasting unique culture and nature.
Visitors can explore mangroves and lagoons, enjoy activities like diving and surfing, and indulge in local delicacies like kokuto shochu (brown sugar liquor) and Oshima tsumugi (traditional silk fabric).
Recently, Amami Oshima has gained attention as the island where Saigo Takamori, a prominent historical figure, was once exiled. It also serves as a gateway to the surrounding islands, making it an essential stop for island-hopping tourists.
Name: Amami Oshima
Address: Amami City, Tatsugo Town (Oshima District), and surrounding areas
Access: By plane to Amami Airport or by ferry from Kagoshima Port or Naha Port
15. Yoron Island (Yoron Town)
Located at the southernmost tip of Kagoshima Prefecture, Yoron Island is only 22 km from Okinawa’s main island. On clear days, you can even see Cape Hedo in Okinawa from Yoron’s southern coast.
Surrounded by coral reefs, the island is renowned for its stunningly blue, shallow waters and white sandy beaches. Walking along the crystal-clear water that reaches only to your ankles is an unforgettable experience.
On this small island, interactions with locals are a highlight of the visit. Whether at accommodations, during meals, or just while strolling around, casual conversations and greetings showcase the warmth of Yoron Island’s people.
Name: Yoron Island
Address: Yoron Town, Oshima District
Access: By plane from Kagoshima, Naha, or Amami Oshima to Yoron Airport, or by ferry from Kagoshima Port or Naha Port
16. Kikaijima (Kikai Town)
Kikaijima, located just east of Amami Oshima, is a limestone island formed from uplifted coral reefs. It’s accessible via regular flights from Amami Airport, which take only about five minutes.
The island features gentle rolling hills and is a major producer of sugarcane. The "Sugar Road," a straight path cutting through vast sugarcane fields, is a popular attraction, especially for cycling enthusiasts.
With numerous beautiful beaches and scenic spots, Kikaijima invites visitors to rent bicycles and explore at their own pace.
Name: Kikaijima
Address: Kikai Town, Oshima District
Access: By ferry or plane from Kagoshima or Amami Oshima
17. Okinoerabu Island (Wadomari Town)
North of Yoron Island lies Okinoerabu Island, known for its thriving agriculture, particularly the cultivation of sugarcane and Easter lilies. About a third of the island's residents work in farming.
Tourism here is relaxed, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat rather than a packed itinerary. Although the island has fewer sandy beaches, its diverse and unique terrain makes it a popular destination for diving enthusiasts.
The coral reef waters boast exceptional clarity, and the sunsets are fiery and dramatic. At night, the sky is filled with stars. Strolling around the island, visitors might encounter farmers tending to their fields, goats being walked, people fishing, or others simply napping by the shore. The island’s warm and laid-back atmosphere creates a welcoming environment for tourists.
Name: Okinoerabu Island
Address: Wadomari Town and China Town, Oshima District
Access: By ferry from Kagoshima, Naha, or Amami Oshima, or by plane from Kagoshima or Amami Oshima
18. Tokunoshima (Tokunoshima Town)
Located in the center of the Amami Islands, Tokunoshima is a beautiful island known for its coral reefs, subtropical jungles, and stunning natural landscapes. What sets Tokunoshima apart is its tradition of bullfighting—an intense competition where bulls lock horns and push against each other. The thrilling matches captivate even first-time spectators.
During the bullfighting season, the island comes alive with excitement. Tokunoshima is also known for its passionate residents, who are famous for their enthusiasm, evident even in local elections.
Popular attractions include scenic spots like Inu no Megafuta and Mushirose. The island is home to tropical trees like sago palms and banyan trees, with some being centuries old. With its rich nature and traditions, Tokunoshima is a must-visit among the southwestern islands.
Name: Tokunoshima
Address: Tokunoshima Town, Isen Town, Amagi Town (Oshima District)
Access: By ferry from Kagoshima, Naha, or Amami Oshima, or by plane from Kagoshima or Amami Oshima
19. Cape Sata (Minamiosumi Town)
Cape Sata, located on the Osumi Peninsula, is the southernmost point of Kyushu’s mainland. For those undertaking a journey across Japan, it serves as either the starting or ending point, alongside Cape Soya in Hokkaido. Visitors can obtain a “Certificate of Arrival at Japan’s Southernmost Point” and make a call from the southernmost telephone booth on the mainland.
The walkway to the tip of the cape is well-maintained, and a recently renovated observation deck offers breathtaking views. The combination of the cape, lighthouse, and ocean scenery makes this spot a deeply memorable part of Kagoshima tourism.
Name: Cape Sata
Address: 415ro Sata Makurono, Minamiosumi Town, Kimotsuki District
Access: About 60 minutes by car from Nejime Port
20. Izumi Fumoto Samurai Residences (Izumi City)
In the Edo period, the Satsuma domain established many bases called “Fumoto” throughout its territory. Izumi, located near the border with the Higo domain (modern-day Kumamoto), was one of the most important.
The Izumi Fumoto Samurai Residences still remain, showcasing the distinctive low stone walls and tall hedges characteristic of Kagoshima's samurai districts. Unlike Chiran, the walls here are built with round stones.
Some of the residences are open to tourists, and a popular option is touring the area by ox-drawn carriage. This historic district is a great destination for those looking to extend their sightseeing from Kumamoto Prefecture.
Name: Izumi Fumoto Samurai Residences
Address: Fumoto Town, Izumi City
Access: 15-minute walk from Izumi Station (JR Kyushu Shinkansen and Hisatsu Orange Railway)
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Izumi Historical Museum, Takezoe Residence, Zeisho Residence)
Closed: Third Wednesday of each month (Izumi Historical Museum)
21. Mount Kaimon (Ibusuki City)
Mount Kaimon, located near the southern tip of the Satsuma Peninsula, rises majestically by the sea. Its conical shape has earned it the nickname "Satsuma Fuji." Despite its modest height of 924 meters above sea level, it has been exceptionally selected as one of Japan's "100 Famous Mountains," typically reserved for peaks over 1,500 meters.
The spiral-shaped trail allows even beginners to climb at a comfortable pace. From the summit or along the trail, climbers can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean below.
Even without climbing, simply viewing the mountain from its surroundings is a delightful sightseeing experience. At its eastern base, JR Nishi-Oyama Station, Japan’s southernmost train station, is another popular tourist spot.
Name: Mount Kaimon
Address: Kaimon-Tacho, Ibusuki City
Access: 180-minute walk from JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line Kaimon Station
Official Site: https://www.ibusuki.or.jp/tourism/view/kaimondake/
22. Bandokorobana Nature Park (Minamikyushu City)
Bandokorobana Nature Park is one of the best spots to enjoy stunning views of Mount Kaimon. Surveyed and praised as "a masterpiece of scenic beauty" by Tadataka Ino during his nationwide survey in the late Edo period, the park offers a magnificent view of Satsuma Fuji (Mount Kaimon) rising beyond the rocky coastline and ocean.
The park also features a naturally formed tidal pool called "Umi no Ike" (Sea Pool), which visitors can walk around during low tide. Legend has it that this spot marks the entrance to the undersea Dragon Palace.
Adjacent to the park is the "Seahorse House," a facility dedicated to the artificial breeding of seahorses, which inhabit the surrounding sea. The unique reproductive process, where males carry and hatch eggs, makes it especially popular with couples.
Name: Bandokorobana Nature Park
Address: 5202-2 Beppu, Ei Town, Minamikyushu City
Access: 15-minute walk from JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line Mizunari River Station
Official Site: https://bandpark.jp/
23. Nagasakibana (Ibusuki City)
Nagasakibana, located at the southernmost tip of the Satsuma Peninsula, offers spectacular views of Mount Kaimon. The sight of Satsuma Fuji (Mount Kaimon) across the sea and curved sandy beach resembles a scene straight out of a ukiyo-e painting. On clear days, visitors can even spot Yakushima Island to the south.
This area is also tied to the legend of Urashima Taro, who is said to have departed for the undersea Dragon Palace from this location. The Dragon Palace Shrine, dedicated to Princess Otohime (Toyotama-hime), is a popular attraction among tourists.
The white Satsuma Nagasakibana Lighthouse on the cape is certified as a "Lighthouse of Love" by the Japan Romanticist Association, making it a favorite spot for couples to take photos.
Name: Nagasakibana
Address: 1579 Nagasakibana, Okachiyogamizu, Yamagawa, Ibusuki City
Access: By bus from JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line Ibusuki Station, Yamakawa Station, or Kaimon Station to "Nagasakibana-mae" bus stop
Official Site: https://www.ibusuki.or.jp/tourism/view/nagasakibana/
24. Sogi Falls (Isa City)
As you approach, the thunderous roar of water echoes like the rumbling of the earth. Known as the "Niagara of the East," Sogi Falls is one of Kagoshima Prefecture's most impressive waterfalls. With a width of 210 meters and a height of 12 meters, its breathtaking power has drawn visitors for centuries, including Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who reportedly admired its view during his campaigns against the Shimazu clan.
In spring, the area is adorned with azaleas and cherry blossoms, while autumn brings vibrant foliage, making it a popular seasonal destination. The site offers ample parking, shops, and souvenir stands, providing a complete experience of this majestic natural wonder.
Name: Sogi Falls
Address: 635-11 Miyajin, Okuchi, Isa City
Access: About 25 minutes by car from Kurino IC on the Kyushu Expressway or JR Hisatsu Line Kurino Station
Official Site: https://soginotaki.kagoshima.jp/
25. Ogawa Falls (Minamiosumi Town)
Located in the southern part of the Osumi Peninsula, Ogawa Falls is a hidden gem known for its stunning emerald-green basin. This waterfall has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years.
A well-maintained parking area is available, but it tends to fill up early on weekends. From the parking lot, a 1-kilometer trail leads to the waterfall, which features a height of 46 meters and a width of 60 meters, surrounded by towering cliffs. The clear river water and serene forest along the path make for a refreshing hike.
The vivid emerald-green basin's visibility depends on the day’s water volume. For the best chance of seeing it, visit during periods of lower water levels.
Name: Ogawa Falls
Address: Kawakita, Nejime, Minamiosumi Town, Kimotsuki District
Access: About 10 minutes by car from Nejime Port
Official Site: https://www.kagoshima-kankou.com/guide/51100
26. Ishibashi Memorial Park (Kagoshima City)
The Kotsuki River, which flows through central Kagoshima City, was once spanned by five stone bridges built in the late Edo period. In 1993, heavy rains and floods washed away two of these bridges, and the remaining three were relocated for preservation.
These three bridges now reside at Ishibashi Memorial Park, a unique tourist spot northeast of JR Kagoshima Station. Two of the bridges, Nishida Bridge and Korai Bridge, are set over an artificial stream, creating a curious sight of stone bridges appearing on flat ground. The third, Tamoe Bridge, spans an existing waterway.
Built by order of the feudal lord, the bridges are impressive architectural works. Visitors can walk across them and experience the charm of historical Kagoshima.
Name: Ishibashi Memorial Park
Address: 1-3 Hamacho, Kagoshima City
Access: 10-minute walk from JR Kagoshima Station
Official Site: https://ppp.seika-spc.co.jp/ishi/
27. Koshikijima Islands (Satsumasendai City)
Off the western coast of the Satsuma Peninsula lies the Koshikijima Islands, a quiet and secluded archipelago consisting of three main islands: Kami (Upper), Naka (Middle), and Shimo (Lower) Koshiki. Known to only a few, these islands served as the model for "Koshikijima," the setting of the manga Dr. Koto’s Clinic, with Shimo Koshiki as the specific inspiration.
The islands are home to unique cultural and natural features. For instance, the lily variety Kanoko-yuri, whose bulbs are edible, is said to grow wild only on the Koshikijima Islands in Japan. Additionally, the "Koshiki Four Lakes," a set of lagoons, and the sand spit in the Sato district are iconic landscapes of the islands.
Name: Koshikijima Islands
Address: Sato Town and surrounding areas, Satsumasendai City
Access: About 50 minutes by high-speed boat from Kawauchi Port Terminal or 70 minutes by ferry from Kushikino New Port
Official Site: https://satsumasendai.gr.jp/koshiki-sight-seeing/
28. Imuta Pond (Satsumasendai City)
Imuta Pond, located in Satsumasendai City, is a natural tourist spot registered as a National Natural Monument and designated as a Ramsar Wetland. About one-third of the pond’s western side is a wetland, featuring rare floating peat islands, an uncommon sight in warm regions.
It is home to the endangered Bekko dragonfly and is a popular destination during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Visitors can enjoy cycling or renting boats, as the pond’s circumference is less than 4 kilometers, making it an excellent spot for leisurely outdoor activities.
Name: Imuta Pond
Address: 1993 Imuta, Kedoin Town, Satsumasendai City
Access: About 20 minutes by car from Aira IC on the Kyushu Expressway or about 40 minutes by taxi from JR Kyushu Shinkansen Kawauchi Station
Official Site: https://satsumasendai.gr.jp/spotlist/1694/
29. Kagomma Furusato Yatai Village (Kagoshima City)
ようこそ新しい屋台村の世界へ!
— 【公式】かごっまふるさと屋台村 (@yatai_kagoshima) May 30, 2022
「かごっまふるさと屋台村~バスチカ~」は鹿児島中央ターミナルビルの地下1階にオープン!
熱気と活気がうずまく路地には人と人がつながり、新たな鹿児島の魅力が発見できる観光情報&グルメパーク!
まだ訪れたことのないエリアへ行ってみたくなるかも!? pic.twitter.com/W62IiaOxRL
When it comes to Satsuma cuisine, there’s an abundance of tempting choices, from chicken sashimi and kurobuta pork to kibinago fish and shochu. For those unsure what to try or dining with a large group, the "Kagomma Furusato Yatai Village" is the perfect gourmet destination.
This vibrant yatai (food stall) district features 25 unique stalls, ranging from traditional local dishes to creative bar-style cuisine. Popular with both tourists and locals, it’s bustling every evening. Located a short walk from Kagoshima Chuo Station, it’s also a convenient spot for a quick lunch or dinner upon arrival in the city.
Name: Kagomma Furusato Yatai Village
Address: 6-4 Chuo-cho, Kagoshima City
Access: 5-minute walk from JR Kagoshima Chuo Station
Hours: Generally 12:00 PM–2:00 PM, 5:00 PM–12:00 AM (varies by stall)
Closed: Two full-closure days per month (check the official website for dates)
Official Site: https://www.kagoshima-yataimura.info/
30. Terayama Charcoal Kiln Ruins (Kagoshima City)
The Terayama Charcoal Kiln Ruins are part of the UNESCO World Heritage site associated with the Shuseikan Project, which pioneered Western-style industrialization in Japan. In the late Edo period, high-quality charcoal was essential for strong heat, as petroleum and coal were not yet widely available.
Located in the mountains northeast of Sengan-en, these kilns, unusually large for their time, were used for domain projects. Visitors can still see the sturdy stone walls and arched kiln entrances.
Nearby Terayama Park features an observation deck with stunning views of Kagoshima Bay, Sakurajima, and the Kirishima mountain range. Although the ruins are currently closed due to damage from heavy rains in 2019, the surrounding nature trails remain accessible.
Name: Terayama Charcoal Kiln Ruins
Address: 10710-68 Yoshino-cho, Kagoshima City
Access: 15-minute walk from Sanshu Haragakuen-mae bus stop, reachable via the Miyano-ura Danchi Line bus from JR Kagoshima Chuo Station
Official Site: https://www.kagoshima-yokanavi.jp/spot/10145
31. Makurazaki (Makurazaki City)
Makurazaki, the terminal station of the JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line, is one of Japan’s most renowned fishing ports, especially for bonito. Kagoshima Prefecture leads the nation in bonito flake production, and Makurazaki plays a central role.
Visitors can enjoy freshly caught bonito dishes and delicacies made with bonito stock. The Makurazaki City Katsuo Corporation near the port offers tours where visitors can see frozen bonito being processed.
The city is also home to Satsuma Shuzo, a distillery famous for "Satsuma Shiranami" shochu, where visitors can tour the facilities and enjoy free tastings.
Name: Makurazaki
Access: Get off at JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line Makurazaki Station
Official Site: https://www.city.makurazaki.lg.jp/life/3/
32. Bonotsu (Minamisatsuma City)
Bonotsu, a small port town west of Makurazaki, was historically one of Japan’s three major natural harbors, alongside Hakata and Ano (modern-day Tsu, Mie Prefecture). It played a vital role as a gateway for foreign trade, and even St. Francis Xavier landed here during his missionary work in Japan.
Today, it is a tranquil port town with a rich history. Visitors can explore scenic spots like the Twin Sword Rocks, take sightseeing cruises, or visit cultural landmarks such as the Kiratsukan Museum and Akime Bay, where Ganjin Wajo first arrived in Japan.
Name: Bonotsu
Address: Bonotsu Town, Minamisatsuma City
Access: About 60 minutes by car from Kawabe IC on the Ibusuki Toll Road
Official Site: http://www.synapse.ne.jp/haya/index.html
33. Fukiagehama Beach (Hioki City)
Fukiagehama Beach, stretching in a gentle arc along the western Satsuma Peninsula, is one of Japan’s three major sand dunes alongside the Tottori Sand Dunes. Spanning approximately 47 kilometers, it is the longest beach in Japan.
Its endless white sand and serene atmosphere are perfect for relaxing walks, and its west-facing location offers breathtaking sunsets. Visitors can also enjoy the 21-kilometer cycling road, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely ride.
Name: Fukiagehama Beach
Address: Nakahara, Fukiage Town, Hioki City, and surrounding areas
Access: About 20 minutes on foot from Fukiagehama bus stop, reachable via the "Nantetsu-go" bus from JR Kagoshima Main Line Ijūin Station
Official Site: https://kanko-minamisatsuma.jp/spot/7560/
34. Kamo Giant Camphor Tree (Aira City)
Located in the grounds of Kamo Hachiman Shrine in Aira City, the Kamo Giant Camphor Tree stands approximately 30 meters tall and is recognized as Japan’s largest tree. A nationwide survey conducted in 1988 officially identified it as the country’s largest tree.
Believed to have already been a giant when the shrine was founded in 1123, the tree is a popular power spot in Kagoshima Prefecture, attracting numerous visitors who come to feel its sacred presence. The tree’s circumference at its base measures an impressive 33.5 meters.
35. Maruike Spring (Yusui Town)
Located near the Kirishima mountain range, Maruike Spring in Yusui Town is renowned for its high-quality water, selected as one of Japan's "100 Famous Waters." The spring produces an impressive 59,000 tons of water per day, forming a pond that serves as both a tourist attraction and an essential water source for the local community.
This pristine water, filtered through the mountains over 30 years, is remarkably clear and refreshing. Conveniently situated right in front of JR Kurino Station, the spring is easily accessible. Visitors are encouraged to bring containers such as jerry cans or empty bottles to take home this exceptional water.
Name: Maruike Spring
Address: 589 Koba, Yusui Town, Aira District
Access: 1-minute walk from JR Hisatsu Line Kurino Station
Official Site: https://www.town.yusui.kagoshima.jp/site/kanko/898.html
36. Tosenkyo Somen Nagashi (Ibusuki City)
"Somen nagashi," a local specialty of Kagoshima, is a unique twist on traditional flowing somen noodles. Instead of flowing through bamboo channels, the noodles circulate endlessly in a water-filled, donut-shaped rotating container.
Tosenkyo, located near Lake Ikeda in southern Satsuma Peninsula, is the birthplace of this tradition. Originally invented by an individual, it has since become a city-operated facility popular with tourists.
With abundant, cool spring water and the soothing sounds of flowing streams, enjoying somen nagashi at Tosenkyo, especially in summer, offers a delightful and refreshing experience.
Name: Tosenkyo Somen Nagashi
Address: 5967 Kaimon-Tacho, Ibusuki City
Access: Bus from JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line Ibusuki or Kaimon Station to "Tosenkyo" stop
Official Site: https://www.ibusuki.or.jp/eat/somen/ibusukicity/
37. Barrel Valley PRAHA & GEN (Kirishima City)
Located near Kagoshima Airport, Barrel Valley PRAHA & GEN is a theme park dedicated to koji (fermentation starters) and alcohol, operated by a century-old koji maker. Visitors are greeted by a giant sake bottle-shaped gate and can explore distilleries producing shochu and craft beer.
The park offers a variety of koji-based products, including amazake (sweet sake), pickles, and black koji pork products. The on-site restaurant, "Little Prague," serves authentic Czech cuisine paired with beer.
A tasting corner for shochu and black vinegar makes it a perfect spot to visit while waiting for a flight.
Name: Barrel Valley PRAHA & GEN
Address: 876-15 Fumoto, Mizobe-cho, Kirishima City
Access: Bus from JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line Ibusuki or Kaimon Station to "Tosenkyo" stop
Official Site: https://praha-gen.com/
38. Kanoya Rose Garden (Kanoya City)
The Kanoya Rose Garden boasts approximately 35,000 roses from around the world, making it one of Japan's largest rose gardens. Located in Kanoya City, the central city of the Osumi Peninsula, it also offers a stunning viewpoint overlooking Kagoshima Bay and Mount Kaimon in the distance.
The garden is divided into themed sections, such as the "Fragrance Garden" and the "Royal Garden," and features original varieties like the "Princess Kanoya." A visit typically takes 30 minutes to an hour.
The garden is particularly vibrant during the "Rose Festival" held in spring and early summer, attracting numerous visitors. Unique rose-themed dishes, such as "Rose Curry" and "Rose Soft Serve," are highly recommended.
Name: Kanoya Rose Garden
Address: 1250 Hamada Town, Kanoya City
Access: 30 minutes by car from Kanoya-Kushira IC on the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway
Closed: Mondays (except holidays) and New Year holidays (open daily during the Rose Festival)
Official Site: http://www.baranomachi.jp/
39. Imaizumi Shimazu Residence Site (Ibusuki City)
The birthplace of Atsuhime (Princess Atsu), wife of the 13th Tokugawa shogun Iesada, Imaizumi was part of the Imaizumi Shimazu family's domain in present-day Ibusuki City.
Around JR Satsuma-Imaizumi Station, visitors can explore remnants of the era, such as stone walls and pine-lined roads. The site includes the remains of the residence and a statue of young Atsuhime, evoking the atmosphere of the late Edo period.
Local guides are available at the station to provide tours upon request.
Name: Imaizumi Shimazu Residence Site
Address: Iwamoto, Ibusuki City
Access: Get off at JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line Satsuma-Imaizumi Station
Official Site: https://www.ibusuki.or.jp/tourism/view/atsuhime/
40. Sekiyoshi Sluice Gate of Yoshino Leat (Kagoshima City)
The Sekiyoshi Sluice Gate is part of the "Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution" UNESCO World Heritage designation. Originally built as a water channel to supply water to Sengan-en, it was later redesigned for use in the Shuseikan industrial projects.
The water channel stretches 8 km from the Inari River intake upstream to Sengan-en, with an elevation difference of just 8 meters, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of the Satsuma domain.
Today, about 3 km of the sluice remains, some of which is still used for agricultural irrigation. Near the intake, a walkway between the river and the channel offers a pleasant route for strolling. Though lesser-known as a World Heritage site, it is a hidden gem for history enthusiasts visiting Kagoshima.
Name: Sekiyoshi Sluice Gate of Yoshino Leat
Address: 1263 Shimoda Town, Kagoshima City
Access: 15-minute walk from Shimoda bus stop, reachable by bus from JR Kagoshima Chuo Station
Official Site: https://www.kagoshima-yokanavi.jp/spot/10146
Enjoy Kagoshima’s History, Hot Springs, and Gourmet Delights
From spots rich in historical significance to relaxing hot springs and the breathtaking natural beauty of its islands, Kagoshima offers a wealth of attractions. With improved accessibility thanks to the Kyushu Shinkansen and LCC flights to Kagoshima Airport, visiting this culturally vibrant and scenic prefecture has never been easier. Be sure to explore the unique culture and charm of Kagoshima.
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