Kagoshima, Japan-4-day-itinerary

Kagoshima, Japan Itinerary (4 Days)

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Kagoshima City

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Arrive at Kagoshima Airport.
  • 10:00 AM: Check-in at your hotel. Recommended hotels include:
    • Hotel Kintetsu Kagoshima: A comfortable place to stay with a great location for exploring the city.
    • Hotel JAL City Dian: Offers modern amenities and is within walking distance of public transportation.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Visit the Kagoshima City Museum (, open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM). This museum showcases the natural history of Kyushu and features exhibits on local folklore.
  • 2:00 PM: Have lunch at a nearby restaurant. Recommendations include:
    • Kagoshima Tonkatsu: Known for their high-quality tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet).
    • Ganko: Offers traditional Japanese cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Take a stroll along the waterfront, exploring the shops and restaurants.
  • 8:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at one of Kagoshima’s seafood restaurants. The city is famous for its fresh seafood.
  • 10:00 PM: Return to your hotel for rest.

Day 2: Sakurajima Island and Sengan-en Garden

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Take a ferry from Kagoshima Port to Sakurajima Island (, approximately 20 minutes). Note: Check the ferry schedule in advance.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the crater of Mt. Sakurajima (, open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, subject to volcanic activity conditions). This is a unique experience where you can see up close the effects of volcanic eruptions.
  • 1:00 PM: Have lunch at one of the restaurants on the island.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit Sengan-en Garden (, open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM), a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with stunning views of Sakurajima Island.
  • 5:00 PM: Return to Kagoshima City by ferry and bus.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in the city that serve local specialties.
  • 9:00 PM: You can take a scenic drive along the coastal route or simply enjoy your hotel’s amenities.

Day 3: Ibusuki Beach and Onsen

Morning

  • 8:30 AM: Drive to Ibusuki Beach (approximately 1 hour), known for its unique sand sculptures made by volcanic ash.
  • 10:00 AM: Take a sand bath at the beach, a unique experience where you can enjoy the benefits of warm black sand.

Afternoon

  • 12:30 PM: Have lunch at one of the local restaurants in Ibusuki town.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit an onsen (hot spring) such as Yunomoto Onsen (open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM). Relax and rejuvenate in this natural hot spring.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Return to Kagoshima City for dinner.
  • 8:00 PM: Visit the famous Kagoshima Churashima Aquarium (, open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM) or take a stroll along the waterfront if you prefer not to enter.

Day 4: Explore More of Kagoshima

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the former residence of Saigō Takamori, a key figure in the Meiji Restoration (, open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM).
  • 11:30 AM: Have lunch at a nearby restaurant.
  • 12:30 PM: Explore the nearby Kagoshima Castle (, open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM), which was once the seat of the powerful Shimazu clan.

Afternoon

  • 3:00 PM: If you have time and are interested, visit the Kagoshima Museum of Art (, open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM) for a look at its collection.
  • 4:00 PM: Begin preparations to depart Kagoshima.

Transportation

  • Airport Access: The most convenient way to get around is by taxi. There are also buses available that can take you to your destination within the city limits.
  • Ferry Service: Use the ferry service between Kagoshima Port and Sakurajima Island for a unique experience of traveling on volcanic ash-covered waters.

Tips

  • Weather Conditions: Be prepared for sudden changes in weather due to volcanic activity. Always check forecasts before heading out.
  • Volcanic Activity: If there’s an eruption, do not go close to the volcano as it can be dangerous.
  • Respect Local Customs: Kagoshima is a place where tradition and modernity blend together nicely. Be respectful of local customs, especially in temples or shrines you visit.

Other Information

  • Emergency Contact Numbers:
    • Police: 110
    • Fire Department: 119
  • Language Support: Most locals speak basic English, but it’s helpful to learn some Japanese phrases for a more authentic experience.
  • Currency: Japanese yen is the local currency. Major credit cards are widely accepted in most places.
  • Health and Safety: Always follow instructions from authorities if there’s an emergency or volcanic activity.

Enjoy your time in Kagoshima!