Kagoshima, Japan-2-day-itinerary

August 5, 2024

Day 1:

Start your day at Hotel Kintetsu Kagoshima, a convenient hotel located near the city center. Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet featuring local specialties.
Address: 2-12-20, Chuo, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima Prefecture

Visit Sengan-en Garden, a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with stunning views of Sakurajima volcano. Explore the gardens and learn about the history of the Satsuma domain.
Address: 2-15, Shimocho, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima Prefecture

Take a Kagoshima City Tram (Yobuko Line) to the Tsurumaru Castle Ruins. The tram ride offers a great view of the city.
Get off at the Tsurumaru-machi stop and walk to the castle ruins.

Have lunch at Sakurajima Sushi, a local restaurant serving fresh sushi made with ingredients from Sakurajima island. Try their special “Sakurajima-style” sushi.
Address: 4-12, Shimocho, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima Prefecture

Visit Kagoshima City Aquarium, one of Japan’s largest aquariums. See a variety of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and penguins.
Address: 1-1, Shimocho, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima Prefecture

Enjoy dinner at Kagoshima Ramen, a popular ramen restaurant serving rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth. Try their signature “Torigara” ramen.
Address: 3-12, Chuo, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima Prefecture

Day 2:

Take a Kagoshima City Bus (No. 15) to the Sakurajima Lava Park. The bus ride offers stunning views of Sakurajima volcano.
Get off at the Sakurajima-ko stop and visit the lava park.

Take a Sakurajima Island Cruise, which offers breathtaking views of the island and its crater. You can also see the island’s famous “hiking trails” (note: hiking is not allowed due to volcanic activity).
Depart from the Kagoshima Port.

Visit Kagoshima City Museum, which features exhibits on the history and culture of the city. See a collection of Satsuma domain artifacts and learn about the city’s development.
Address: 2-15, Shimocho, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima Prefecture

Enjoy dinner at Kagoshima Yakitori, a popular yakitori restaurant serving grilled chicken skewers. Try their signature “torikawa” (grilled chicken with salt and pepper).
Address: 4-12, Shimocho, Kagoshima-shi, Kagoshima Prefecture

Things to Know:

Language: Japanese is the primary language spoken in Kagoshima. Some locals may speak basic English, but it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Japanese phrases.
Currency: The Japanese yen (JPY) is the official currency of Japan.
Weather: Kagoshima has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for sudden rain showers in the summer months.
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan, but it’s appreciated if you receive good service.

Transportation:

Kagoshima City Tram (Yobuko Line): A convenient way to travel around the city, with a flat fare of 200 JPY for adults.
Kagoshima City Bus: A comprehensive bus network covering most areas of the city. Fares range from 200-400 JPY.
Taxis: Available throughout the city, but can be expensive.

Tips:

Respect local customs: Remove your shoes before entering traditional Japanese homes or gardens.
Try local specialties: Kagoshima is famous for its delicious seafood and local cuisine. Try to sample as many dishes as you can!
Explore on foot: Kagoshima has a compact city center, making it easy to explore on foot.

Other Things of Interest:

Kagoshima Castle: A historic castle that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1758. The current castle is a replica built in 1993.
Tsurumaru Jizo: A historic statue located near the Tsurumaru Castle Ruins, said to be over 1,000 years old.
Sakurajima Volcano Museum: A museum located at the Sakurajima Lava Park, featuring exhibits on the volcano’s history and geology.