Things To Do
in Kagoshima
Kagoshima is a coastal city in southern Kyushu known for its scenic bay, active volcano, and warm hospitality. Its skyline is framed by Mount Sakurajima, a live volcano that can be seen from most of the city. The area blends samurai heritage, hot springs towns, and vibrant markets with a laid‑back island vibe.
Nearby nature and gardens like Sengan-en offer easy day trips with impressive bay views.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the iconic Kagoshima Aquarium, where you can marvel at the diverse marine life native to the region. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Shiroyama Park, enjoying panoramic views of Sakurajima volcano and the surrounding bay. Don't forget to stop by the historic Sengan-en Garden, where traditional Japanese landscapes meet stunning views of the volcano.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Reimeikan Museum to learn about Kagoshima's rich history and culture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, savoring Kagoshima's famous black pork dishes. Explore the bustling streets of Tenmonkan, filled with shops and cafes, perfect for picking up souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront for a relaxing walk along the promenade, where you can catch glimpses of the Sakurajima volcano lit up against the night sky. Stop at a local izakaya to experience Kagoshima's nightlife and indulge in delicious local dishes. Finish your evening with a soak in one of the nearby onsen, allowing the warmth to melt away the day’s adventures.
Take a ferry to Sakurajima, the active volcano that looms over Kagoshima, and start your adventure with a visit to the Sakurajima Visitor Center. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the center's observation deck, where you can learn about the volcano's geology and history. Spend some time exploring the scenic walking trails that lead you closer to the outer rim.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy lunch at a local café on the island, where you can taste regional specialties such as Sakurajima daikon. Post-lunch, embark on a guided hike to the summit of the volcano for unforgettable views of Kagoshima Bay and the surrounding area. Capture stunning photographs of the volcanic landscape and unique flora native to this region.
As the day winds down, return to Kagoshima and take a moment to reflect on your adventure over a casual dinner at a local restaurant. Opt for a meal featuring fresh seafood, a staple of Kagoshima's culinary scene. End your evening with a leisurely stroll along the bay, enjoying the cool breeze and the twinkling lights of the city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍣Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich volcanic scenery and bay views
- Excellent access to nature and onsen towns
- Can be hot and humid in summer
- Some areas are touristy and can feel quiet at night outside the Tenmonkan district
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "おはようございます" - Good morning
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "これはいくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the toilet?
- "注文をお願いします" - I would like to order, please
- "助けてください" - Please help me
- "いいえ、結構です" - No, thank you
Places to Visit in Kagoshima
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic city views with Sakurajima on the horizon, especially striking at sunset.
Lush gardens with traditional architecture and bay views framed by volcanic scenery.
Dramatic volcanic silhouette across the water; best from the port or from the island's viewpoints.
Colorful evening light over the water and silhouettes of the volcano.
Vibrant street photography with neon signs, stalls, and lively crowds.
Food in Kagoshima
Kagoshima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Signature pork prepared as tonkatsu, shabu-shabu, or yakiniku; widely available in Kagoshima city, especially around Tenmonkan.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried fish cakes often served as a snack or with tea; commonly found at markets and casual eateries.
Rich pork and niboshi broth with thin noodles; a comforting staple in city ramen shops.
Fresh local seafood served over rice; try it at market stalls or seaside restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling streets with casual eateries offering small plates of local favorites like Satsuma-age and kurobuta skewers.
A hub for fresh seafood and produce; sample small bites from market stalls along the aisles.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional inns; slippers are typically provided.
Shower before entering; no towels in the bath; tattoos can be a barrier in some onsen; check policy beforehand.
Speak softly in public; bow slightly as a greeting; use 'sumimasen' to excuse yourself.
Safety
Tipping in Kagoshima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is expected without extra tipping; if you wish, small tips may be appreciated at very touristy establishments.
Cash is widely accepted; major credit cards are common in hotels and larger shops; some smaller eateries may be cash-only; IC cards like Suica/SUGOCA are convenient for transit in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Comfortable temperatures and blooming plum and cherry trees; great for city walks and gardens.
Warm to hot with high humidity; typhoon season can bring rain; stay hydrated and plan island trips early.
Mild weather and colorful foliage in parks and gardens; ideal for photography and hiking.
Mild winter compared with mainland Japan; occasional chilly mornings but many sunny days; hot springs are very appealing.
Kagoshima at Night
Hiking in Kagoshima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible coastal hikes with volcanic landscapes and sea views.
Crater ridge hikes in Kirishima National Park, with panoramic viewpoints.
World-renowned mossy forests and cedar trails, including Shiratani Unsuikyo and the Jomon Sugi route.
Airports
How to reach Kagoshima by plane.
Main gateway to Kagoshima Prefecture; domestic and limited international flights; about 40-60 minutes from central Kagoshima by bus or car.
Major Kyushu hub with frequent domestic flights to Kagoshima; about 1 hour by air and good rail connections via Shinkansen.
East of Kagoshima; alternative gateway for regional travel with train connections to Kagoshima area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, students, and long-time residents; a sizable elderly population and a growing influx of domestic travelers.
Visitors drawn by Sakurajima, onsen towns, and natural landscapes; many are eager to experience traditional culture with modern comfort.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local pastime with school teams and regional leagues; some parks host games in season.
Kagoshima United FC and local clubs participate in regional competitions and enjoy supporter culture.
Active community events with scenic routes along the coast and in the mountains.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kagoshima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adjusted to be vegetarian by avoiding dashi (fish stock). Look for tofu, vegetable tempura, seaweed salads, and rice bowls; consider visiting Buddhist‑run eateries for plant‑based options.