things-to-do-in-Kagoshima, Japan

Things to Do in Kagoshima, Japan

Located on the southern island of Kyushu, Kagoshima is a city surrounded by stunning natural beauty and rich history. Here are some things to do in Kagoshima that you shouldn’t miss:

1. Sakurajima

  • Location: An active volcano located near Kagoshima City

  • Must-see attraction: Take a ferry ride around the island for stunning views of the volcano and surrounding sea

  • Other activities:

    • Hike up to the summit of Sakurajima for breathtaking views (free)
    • Visit the Kagoshima City Museum of the Eruption of Aira Caldera (admission: ¥500)
    • See a live eruption at the Kagoshima Volcano Observation Deck (admission: ¥1,000)

2. Kagoshima City Aquarium

  • Location: Near the waterfront in central Kagoshima

  • Must-see attraction: The aquarium features a large tank with over 50 species of fish and a shark tank

  • Other activities:

    • See penguins, sea lions, and other marine animals
    • Visit the outdoor observation deck for stunning views of Sakurajima (free)
    • Take a guided tour of the aquarium (admission: ¥1,000)

3. Kagoshima Chuo Train Station

  • Location: Central Kagoshima

  • Must-see attraction: The station building is an impressive example of modern Japanese architecture and design

  • Other activities:

    • Take a guided tour of the station (admission: ¥500)
    • See a live train display at the Kagoshima Chuo Train Station Museum (free)

4. Kagoshima Prefectural Office

  • Location: Central Kagoshima

  • Must-see attraction: The building features a unique blend of modern and traditional Japanese architecture

  • Other activities:

    • Take a guided tour of the office (admission: ¥500)
    • See a live demonstration of traditional Japanese crafts at the prefectural office (free)

5. Kagoshima City Museum

  • Location: Near the waterfront in central Kagoshima

  • Must-see attraction: The museum features a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of Kagoshima and the surrounding area

  • Other activities:

    • See a live demonstration of traditional Japanese crafts at the museum (free)
    • Take a guided tour of the museum (admission: ¥500)

6. Kagoshima City Botanical Garden

  • Location: Near the waterfront in central Kagoshima

  • Must-see attraction: The garden features over 1,000 species of plants and flowers from around the world

  • Other activities:

    • See a live demonstration of traditional Japanese gardening techniques at the botanical garden (free)
    • Take a guided tour of the garden (admission: ¥500)

7. Kagoshima City Tourist Information Center

  • Location: Central Kagoshima

  • Must-see attraction: The center offers maps, brochures, and other information about Kagoshima and its surroundings

  • Other activities:

    • Get a map or brochure to plan your trip (free)
    • Ask staff for recommendations on what to see and do in Kagoshima (free)

Tips for Visitors:

  • Try local specialties such as kurobuta (black pork) and satsuma imo (Japanese sweet potato)
  • Visit the Kagoshima City Tourist Information Center for a map or brochure
  • Don’t forget to take your camera to capture the stunning views of Sakurajima!

Getting Around:

  • The city has an extensive network of buses, taxis, and trains that make it easy to get around
  • Rent a car if you want to explore the surrounding area

Language:

  • Japanese is the primary language spoken in Kagoshima, but many locals speak some English
  • Don’t hesitate to ask for help or directions from locals