Kirishima Itinerary - A Travel Guide Blog

Kirishima Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Kyushu Japan | 0

Last updated on March 23rd, 2024

Whether you’re planning a day trip or spending more days in Kirishima, there are some incredible things to do in Kirishima that you should check out to get the best experience of your Kirishima itinerary.

Kirishima (霧島) is an active volcanic mountain range that lies on the border between Miyazaki and Kagoshima Prefectures. It is well-known for its natural beauty (stunning mountains, highlands, volcanic lakes, and onsen). There are a variety of indoor and outdoor onsens where you can enjoy and relax. It is also a top-rated onsen paradise for locals. While most travelers visit Kirishima as a day trip or as a short 2-day trip, some visitors opt to spend more days and explore the mountainous region.

During our exploration of South Kyushu Japan, Kirishima stood out as one of the unique places to visit. Since we traveled to Kagoshima, we decided to spend one day in Kirishima. We were not expecting much from Kirishima at first. But by the end of my trip, we were quite impressed by how amazing this place is! It has a similar vibe to Hakone but with way less crowd.

Below I’m going to share all the possibilities you could fill one day in Kirishima. This Kirishima Travel Guide blog includes my recommended Kirishima day trip itinerary, how to get from Kagoshima to Kirishima, how to get around in Kirishima, and recommendations for Kirishima accommodation.

How To Get to Kirishima

How To Get to Kirishima
Kirishima-Jingu Station

By Plane – The nearest airport is Kagoshima Airport. It is a small yet important airport that serves domestic flights from all over Japan and some international flights from Hong Kong, Korea, China, and Taiwan. Once you reach Kagoshima Airport, you can choose to travel to Kirishima by bus or by rental car.

By Train – Kirishima can be reached using public transportation. From Fukuoka, take the Shinkansen to Kagoshima Chuo (鹿児島中央) Station and then take a JR limited express train (50 minutes) or JR local train (60 minutes) to Kirishima-Jingu (霧島神宮) Station.

All rail journeys are covered by the Japan Rail Pass and JR All Kyushu Rail Pass.

By Bus – From Kagoshima Chuo Station, Kirishima is reachable by several buses. If your itinerary involves many bus rides, consider getting the SunQ Pass for unlimited bus rides.

 Rent a car – Although several companies offer bus service within Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park, infrequent service makes renting a car the better option. If you have an international driver’s license and are comfortable with driving in a foreign country, this is the most convenient and easy option since you won’t have to be dependent on public transport when you get to Kirishima. This is the best option if you don’t want to waste time with public transport.

Book a car rental from RentalCar.com, which you can pick up from the Kagoshima airport or in the city.

Getting Around in Kirishima by Bus

Getting Around in Kirishima

Once in the Kirishima area, you can travel to your desired destination, such as Kirishima Onsen using a Kagoshima Kotsu bus. There are six different bus routes that cover different areas of Kirishima.

Most of the time, travelers will be using Kirishima Bus route #1 to visit the major attractions in Kirishima. The bus (Route#1) operates from the station to the Kirishima shrine (15 minutes), and continues on to Maruo Onsen (30 minutes) and lastly the Kirishima Iwasaki Hotel (35 minutes).

If you are visiting Kirishima from Kagoshima Airport, bus route #3 will take you from the airport to Maruo Onsen (35 minutes), and end at Kirishima Iwasaki Hotel (42 minutes).

Infrequent buses run in the Kirishima area. It is even less during the weekend (3 buses per day) compared to weekdays (6 buses per day). It is advised to plan your Kirishima itinerary if you are using public transport.

Kirishima Kotsu Bus official website: http://www.city-kirishima.jp/kirikan/kanko/leisure/busmap.html

You can purchase the Kirishima bus pass or pay per ride. If you are taking the bus to more than 2 attractions, it is advised to get the bus pass. Besides, SunQ Pass is covered for the bus ride.

Where To Stay

Kirishima Hotel

The Kirishima area is doable as a day trip, but if you want to spend more time enjoying the onsen, you’ll have to make it at least a 2-days trip. Even if you are not doing a day trip, staying in Kirishima is a nice getaway from the city!

We stayed in Kirishima Hotel, one of the popular onsen resorts in Kirishima. Staying at Kirishima hotel you can enjoy the giant, theme-park-like hot springs. The Large Garden Bath is 25 meters deep, and gushes out 50 drums of hot water per minute. Truly an extremely impressive bath and amazing stay!

Check for room availability at Kirishima Hotel here (Booking.com | Agoda.com)

For more accommodation option, read on: Where To Stay in Kirishima: Best Onsen Hotel and Resort

What to do for Kirishima itinerary

Kirishima Itinerary - What to do in Kirishima

There’s so much to see and surround yourself with nature while visiting the Kirishima. Here are what to do and see in the Kirishima area.

What to do and see for Kirishima itinerary:

  • Kirishima Jingu Shrine
  • Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park
  • Enjoy Hot Spring Bath and stay in Onsen hotel
  • Kirishima Onsen Market
  • Maruo Falls

Note that transport arrangement is the most important part of your Kirishima itinerary. We were using public transport during our visit to Kirishima. So our Kirishima itinerary is based on the best attractions that can be reached by bus. If you are self-driving, you can explore more areas with a more relaxing vibe.

Kirishima Jingu Shrine

Kirishima Jingu Shrine

The main attraction that most visitors come to see is the Kirishima-Jingu Shrine.

Situated amidst a dense forest, Kirishima-Jingu Shrine is a traditional Shinto shrine with stunning lacquered columns and architecture. It is also one of Kagoshima’s best spiritual spots.

Kirishima itinerary - Pray at Kirishima Jingu Shrine

Kirishima Jingu Shrine (霧島神宮) was established in the sixth century and has a rich history.

It is dedicated to Ninigi-no-Mikoto, a deity who is considered to be one of the country’s founding fathers in Japanese mythology. Its current main building was re-constructed in 1715 and has remained there ever since.

Kirishima Itinerary - Enjoy Kirishima Mountains View

The shrine offers breathtaking views of nature’s beauty combined with a refreshing chill due to its mountain location. Strolling around the shrine, the atmosphere is quiet and peaceful.

Kirishima Jingu Shrine (霧島神宮)
Address: 2608-5 Kirishimataguchi, Kirishima, Kagoshima 899-4201
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Admission Fee: Free
Recommended Length of Stay: 1 Hour

Getting to Kirishima Jingu Shrine: Take the Kagoshima Kotsu bus (Route#1) from JR Kirishima Jingu Station (霧島神宮駅) and get off at Kirishima Jingu (霧島神宮). The bus journey takes about 12 minutes.

Kirishima Travel Tip: Note that JR Kirishima Jingu Station is located more than five kilometers away from the shrine. You will need to take a bus ride or drive to get to the shrine.

Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park

Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park

Our next stop is Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park, also known as Kirishima Roadside Station. Located at an altitude of 670 m, this park is located in the Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park.

From the bus stop, we walked 3 minutes to the uphill car park area.

Choo Choo train Kirishima at Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park

Our sightseeing trip started with a fun little choo choo train which goes from the car park area to the top of the hill. You can also choose to hike up the hill.

Chair Lift at Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park

Next, take the chair lift up to the hillside to enjoy the view. The views are spectacular, you can see all the way to the sea and even the volcano Sakurajima from there.

Lunge slider at Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park

Lastly, take the lunge slider down. It is super play and easily controls the speed with a stick at the front part of it. The slider is so fun and a must-try!

Enjoy View at Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park

At the top of the hill, there is a resting area with a bench and table for a quick break. There is nothing much to do on the hill, but the marvelous view.

We spend some time enjoying the view at Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park.

Glass Sliding at Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park

There are also many family-friendly fun activities such as grass sliding, miniature golf, rabbit-feeding, and a roadside restaurant where you can spend half a day. All the activities are very reasonable price. It will be worth your time, especially for those with small kids.

Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park (霧島神話の里公園)
Address: 2583-22 Kirishimataguchi, Kirishima City, Kagoshima.
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 to 17:00.
Admission Fee: Free. Only pay for the rides
Official Website (Japanese): https://www.shinwanosato.jp/
Recommended Length of Stay: 1 – 2 Hours

Getting to Kirishima Shinwa no Sato Park: Take the Kagoshima Kotsu bus (Route#1) from Kirishima Jingu (霧島神宮) and get off at Shinwa no Sato Entrance (神話の里入口). The bus journey takes about 4 minutes.

Enjoy Hot Spring Bath

Kirishima Hotel Onsen
Photo from Kirishima Hotel

What is Kirishima without a visit to the onsen? The most popular activities of Kirishima remained to be enjoyed: its famous hot springs.

Kagoshima is the country’s leading hot spring region with many of these hot springs found in the Kirishima area. There are plenty of hot springs in the Kirishima region, and various types of hot springs as well. Traveling around Kirishima will give you a great chance to experience different types of hot springs easily.

End your Kirishima itinerary by soaking into the onsen or staying in the hot spring hotel.

Enjoy Half Board Stay in Kirishima Hotel
Enjoy Half Board Stay in Kirishima Hotel

After the fun day in Kirishima, we were heading to our onsen hotel to enjoy the hot spring bath. We choose to spend the night at Kirishima Hotel for the ultimate onsen experience.

Our stay included a hearty dinner and breakfast. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring Kirishima. See my Kirishima Hotel Review to know more details about our amazing stay!

Read Read: Kirishima Hotel Review: Ultimate Onsen Experience

Getting to Kirishima Hotel: Depending on your direction, take the Kagoshima Kotsu bus (Route #1, #2, #3) and get off at Sulfur Valley (硫磺谷).

Kirishima Onsen Market

Kirishima Onsen Market

The next morning on Kirishima itinerary, we took the bus from the Kirishima hotel to Kirishima Onsen Market.

Located in the center of Kirishima Onsen town, Kirishima Onsen Market (霧島温泉市場) is the central spot for the Maruo Onsen with restaurants, souvenir shops, a tourist information center, and footbath facilities.

The market is also the main public transport hub in the area. The intersection has a few bus stops in different directions. Many accommodations offering onsen day visit also can be found in the area.

Eat hot spring steam food at Kirishima Onsen Market

At the market square, you can also try the volcanic hot spring steam food including eggs, sweetcorn, and mochi rice cakes here. A perfect spot to take a break.

Getting to Kirishima Onsen Market: Take the Kagoshima Kotsu bus and get off at Maruo (丸尾) or Maruo Onsen (丸尾温泉).

Maruo Falls

Maruo Falls

After the quick break, we walked to the nearby Maruo Falls. The waterfall is located right along the road and you’ll see road signs prominently marked for Maruo Falls.

The Maruo Falls (丸尾滝) is a picturesque 23-m tall waterfall of hot spring water. Despite being smaller in size compared to other falls in Japan, Maruo Falls is a gorgeous waterfall. It is more impressive when seeing it in person.

Viewing Platform at Maruo Falls

There is a viewing platform where you can enjoy the beautiful view. Noted that Maruo Falls is not for those who are looking for hiking or to be closer to nature.

The beautiful falls and the blue pond below makes for great photo opportunities. Not very spectacular but worth it for a short detour.

Getting to Maruo Falls: Maruo Falls is easily accessible to reach by car and even by foot if you are in the area. From Kirishima Onsen market, walked for 10 minutes to the Maruo Falls. 

Overall: A Visit to Kirishima

All in all, we truly enjoy our visit to Kirishima. Our visit to Kirishima bring us a various of highlights including a beautiful view, sacred Shinto shrines, hot springs to soothe your travel fatigue, and more. The area is hard to get there due to infrequent public transport. Still, it is doable with the well-plan itinerary.

In short, Kirishima is definitely a must-visit and highly recommended.

Related Kirishima and Kagoshima Travel Blog:

Visiting Kyushu and looking for some inspiration for what to do in Kyushu then be sure to read our Kyushu travel blog here:

Where To Stay in Kagoshima

Where To Stay in Kagoshima: Best Areas and Hotels

posted in: Kyushu Japan | 0

Last updated on March 23rd, 2024

Looking for where to stay in Kagoshima? Read our accommodation guide to the best areas and hotels, from luxurious high-range resorts to mid-budget hotels.

Kagoshima is the southernmost city on Kyushu Island. Compared to other bustling city in Japan, Kagoshima is one of the quieter and less touristy cities. But it’s quite refreshing to visit an off-the-beaten area that doesn’t have as many crowds, yet still has its charm. This beautiful seaside city is known for its Sakurajima, Sengan-en Garden, and its mouthwatering local cuisine.

Kagoshima is quite large, so it is important to know where to stay in Kagoshima to suit your ideal travel experience. There are plenty of excellent budget and mid-range accommodations for travelers to visit Kagoshima. Most of them are centrally located in an area that is easily accessible by public transport. The best part of the accommodation in Kagoshima is the cheaper and the price is also reasonable.

Whether you plan on exploring Kagoshima for a short trip or a long one, knowing the best places to stay is key to a successful trip. Below are some of these areas with recommendation hotels that you may want to consider when looking for where to stay in Kagoshima.

Where To Stay in Kagoshima

Generally, we recommended staying in the centrally located areas of Kagoshima: near Kagoshima Chuo Station and in the Tenmonkan area.

Staying near the Kagoshima-Chuo Station area for travelers who looking for convenient access by rail network. The station is connected with the Shinkansen, trains, trams, and bus services.

Staying in the Tenmonkan district for travelers interested in food, shopping, or wanting a travel experience of convenience. The accommodation is also cheaper compared to other areas.

Kagoshima-Chuo Station area

Stay at Kagoshima-Chuo Station area

For travelers who looking for convenient access by rail network, the Kagoshima-Chuo Station area is the best place to stay in Kagoshima.

This station is an important transport hub for travelers serviced by the Shinkansen service running from Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and other cities. Access to the downtown area is also very easy by using the trams and buses well connected.

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kagoshima

Kagoshima Best Hotel - Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kagoshima

High-Range: Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kagoshima is a popular pick when travelers looking for where to stay in Kagoshima. Its modern rooms impress with a 4-star decor and a spacious shower room with a bathtub. Some rooms are even featured with an excellent view of Sakurajima which is fantastic.

The location is excellent about a 2-minute walk from JR Kagoshima-Chuo Train Station. Many shops, restaurants, and eateries nearby. Great location, reasonable price, and excellent service from the staff. Highly recommended.

FAV Hotel KagoshimaChuo

Where To Stay in Kagoshima - FAV Hotel Kagoshima Chuo

High-Range: FAV Hotel KagoshimaChuo is our pick for one of the best hostels in Kagoshima. This spacious, modern hotel is located near central Kagoshima and is a short walk from the station. It offers clean rooms with comfortable beds and has good facilities. It also has family rooms which can be fit for larger travel groups.

JR Kyushu Hotel Kagoshima

Room View - JR Kyushu Hotel Kagoshima

High-Mid Range: JR Kyushu Hotel Kagoshima is directly connected to JR Kagoshima Chuo Shinkansen (bullet train) Station, making it a very convenient base to explore southern Kyushu. The property is surrounded by restaurants and shops, perfect for getting around quickly. It provides spacious rooms with comfortable beds and air-conditioning. The staff is super polite and helpful.

Toyoko Inn Kagoshima Chuo eki Nishi guchi

Best Kagoshima Hotel - Toyoko Inn Kagoshima chuo eki Nishi guchi

Mid-Budget: Toyoko Inn Kagoshima Chuo eki Nishi guchi is the best value accommodation if you choose to stay near the Kagoshima-Chuo Station. The location is perfect, it is easy to access anywhere. The room is simple and nothing fancy, but it is very clean and comfortable. The price is also very reasonable and can be considered the cheapest in the area for 3-star accommodation in the area. Your stay is included with a simple yet delicious Japanese-style buffet breakfast which is a great plus!

Tenmonkan Area

Stay at Tenmonkan Area

Tenmonkan is the main district in the center of the city and this is the best place to stay in Kagoshima for anyone interested in shopping or wanting a travel experience of convenience. You will have everything you need at just a stone’s throw away.

There are numerous cafes, restaurants, entertainment, and souvenir stores. The accommodation in the Tenmonkan area is also cheaper compared to the Kagoshima-Chuo Station area.

Dormy Inn Kagoshima

Where To Stay in Kagoshima - Dormy Inn Kagoshima

High Range: Dormy Inn Kagoshima is an excellent value hotel and is highly recommended to travelers who looking for where to stay in Kagoshima. The property is located in a great location in the downtown area. It is near many restaurants, and eateries, can close to the ferry port for Sakurajima. It offers modern accommodations with a clean and comfortable bed.

Free access to the hot-spring baths located on the top floor for freshening up after a long day. Complimentary snacks are another great plus for staying here.

Remm Kagoshima

Where To Stay in Kagoshima - remm Kagoshima

High Range: Remm Kagoshima is a minimalist contemporary hotel with Japanese-inspired interiors in the Tenmokan area of Kagoshima City. This modern 3-star hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern features. The property is located at the heart of the city. It is close to well-known tourist attractions and is within walking distance of great restaurants, bars, and shops.

Hotel Mystays Tenmonkan

Room View - Hotel Mystays Kagoshima Tenmonkan

Mid-Range: Hotel Mystays Kagoshima Tenmonkan offers affordable comfortable stays in the Tenmonkan area. The downtown Tenmonkan area is a 5-minute walk away from the hotel and only a minute’s walk from Takami-Baba Tram Station. The room is clean and comfortable. A convenient base for exploring the city and is close to shopping, dining, and sightseeing options.

Quintessa Hotel Kagoshima Tenmonkan

Best mid Budget Hotel - Quintessa Hotel Kagoshima Tenmonkan

Mid-Range: Quintessa Hotel Kagoshima Tenmonkan – this new 3-star hotel offers affordable guest rooms in the heart of Kagoshima City. The hotel is in a great location where restaurants and attractions can be easily reached.

The room is clean and comfortable with great amenities. Stalls are friendly and ready to help. It also offers luggage storage for guests if you want to store your luggage. All this combined makes this our pick for where to stay in the Kagoshima Tenmonkan area.

Overall: A Best Stay in Kagoshima

With all the suggestions on where to stay in Kagoshima, we hope you will be able to pick the one that sounds best to you.

In short, if you are looking for a convenient base when visiting the area, stay near the Kagoshima-Chuo Station area.The Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kagoshima is our recommendation. But for a slightly cheaper option, consider the Quintessa Hotel Kagoshima Tenmonkan. Staying. It is also convenient for touring around the city.

Traveling to Kagoshima? Here is our travel strories to Kagoshima Prefecture:

Visiting Kyushu and looking for some inspiration for what to do in Kyushu then be sure to read our Kyushu travel blog here:

Sakurajima itinerary - A Travel Guide blog

Day Trip Sakurajima Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Kyushu Japan | 0

Last updated on March 23rd, 2024

Visiting Sakurajima? Here is all the information you need to plan your Sakurajima itinerary as first-time visitors: What to do, see, and eat!

Sakurajima (櫻島) is a beautiful island indeed. It is a magnificent sight and might be the number one reason to come to prefecture. The island is one of the most active volcanoes on planet earth erupting on average 1 to 2 times each day in the last couple of decades. You can see the active volcano is ever present, around every corner in the city. But of course, the best way to get closer to the island is to feel the power of nature.

In this Sakurajima Travel Guide blog, we’re sharing our tips on how to plan your visit to Sakurajima including how to get there, the best things to do there, and some useful travel information.

How To Get to Sakurajima

How To Get to Sakurajima
Take Kagoshima city tram Suizokukan-guchi (水族館口)

Depending on where is your starting point, you will need to travel to Kagoshima if you plan to visit the Sakurajima. From Fukuoka, the easiest starting point is getting to Kagoshima-Chuo Station by using the Shinkansen which takes you about 1.5 hours ride.

Consider getting the JR Pass or JR All Kyushu Pass to save some money.

Ferry Ride to Sakurajima

By city tram: From Kagoshima-Chuo, take the Kagoshima city tram from Kagoshima-eki Mae (east exit) to Suizokukan-guchi (水族館口) station. Next, from the Kagoshima station, it is a 7-minute walk to the pier.

From the pier, take the ferry to Sakurajima which runs every 15 minutes.

Getting Around in Sakurajima

Getting Around in Sakurajima

There are a few options to travel around the Sakurajima:

Sightseeing Bus: It is very convenient to go to Sakurajima by public transport. There’s a sightseeing loop bus called Sakurajima Island View that runs the Sakurajima Island on every 30 minutes intervals. The sightseeing bus will take you to the interesting tourist spots for a short break for photo-taking.

Bike: Cycling is one of the options for travelers who love to experience the Sakurajima at a relaxed pace. You can rent bicycles for ¥300 an hour at the car rental shop located right across the street from the ferry terminal. The full route of the cycling tour could take you about 4 to 5 hours.

On Foot: There are some nature trails to walk along and admire the volcano.

Self-Driving: Travelers also can drive in their car when touring around the island. There is a fee to bring your car from the mainland to Sakurajima Island by ferry.

Sakurajima Transport Pass

The Sakurajima Island View Bus Tour costs ¥500 and you can hop on and hop off the sightseeing bus on Sakurajima Island.

We recommend buying the Kagoshima CUTE Pass (One day at ¥1,200 or 2-day at ¥1,800) if you are also visiting the Kagoshima city. With the Cute Pass, you may enjoy traveling in most of the public transportation in Kagoshima operated by the city council, like a street car (tram), bus, sightseeing bus, and ferry service between Kagoshima Chuo and Sakurajima. Do your smart calculation!

Things to do for Sakurajima itinerary

Visit Mt Sakurajima

When visiting Sakurajima, travelers can experience volcanic eruptions on this island almost every day and also experience how humans interact and co-exist with nature.

There’s so much to do in Sakurajima when touring around the volcanoes:

  • Scenic Ferry Ride to Sakurajima
  • Tour the Sakurajima with Sightseeing Bus
  • Enjoy the Volcano View at the Observatory
  • Get Closer to An Active Volcano
  • Sakurajima Visitor Center
  • Footbath at Sakurajima
  • Lava Trail Walk
  • Eat Satsuma mandarins
  • Optional: Buried Torii Gate

Scenic Ferry Ride to Sakurajima

Scenic Ferry Ride to Sakurajima

The Sakurajima itinerary starts with an enjoyable ferry ride that takes you cross-over from Kagoshima to Sakurajima Island. This pleasant and short 20-minute will bring you closer and closer to this stunning island. The ferry ride costs ¥200 for one way and the Cute Pass is included for the ferry ride.

The ferries are huge and have room for cars on the lower levels.

Go out to the outer deck and enjoy the scenic view of the volcano. You can also witness seagulls feeding on the ferry. Some visitors bought the crackers from the ferry to feed the seagulls. A lovely experience.

Kaku Udon at Sakurajima Ferry Ride

If you’re feeling a little hungry, then try the Kaku Udon, a famous dish offered at the udon shop Yabukin located inside the ferry when getting to Sakurajima.

Tour the Sakurajima with Sightseeing Bus

Sakurajima Island View Bus

Once you reach Sakurajima Island, most of the tourists will hop on the Sakurajima Island View bus that takes a circular route around the island. The sightseeing bus runs about every hour and it brings you to every tourist spot for a short break of photo-taking.

The Bus Terminal is about 5 minutes’ walk on the right side of the ferry Terminal. Try to arrive early before departure to be sure to have a seat because the bus fills rapidly!

Tour the Sakurajima with Sightseeing Bus

We hopped on the bus and enjoyed the full route of the sightseeing trip.

Sakurajima Travel Tip: You can buy the bus ticket at ¥500 from the Tourist Information Centre which is located within a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal. Here you can get informed about what Sakurajima has to offer and how best to explore the island itself.

If you are having the Welcome Cute Pass, the Sakurajima Island View bus tour is included!

Enjoy the Volcano View at the Observatory

There are several stops along the route and the bus tour stopped at each one. It will allocate some time for visitors to view the volcano and take photos. One full route of the Sakurajima Island bus tour takes about 1 hour.

The Karasujima Observatory, Akamizu Observatory, and Yunohira Observatory are the recommended stop along the tour.

Karasujima Observatory

Karasujima Observatory (鳥取展望所) is the first observatory stop for the Sakurajima Island View Bus tour. This observatory offers a stunning view of both Sakurajima Mountain and Kinko Bay. The area features the rocky sea formed by the Taisho lava flow.

Allocated time: 5 minutes.

Akamizu Observatory

Akamizu Observatory Square (赤水展望広場) is another stop along the Sakurajima tour. The square has the “Portrait of a Scream” Monument”. It was placed to commemorate Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s All Night Concert, held in 2004. Made from Sakurajima lava rock used in the concert arena.

Yunohira Observatory

Yunohira Observatory (湯之平展望所) is the highest point on Mt. Sakurajima. It has the best views and the view is spectacular. One of the must-see spots in Sakurajima!

Your opportunity to get close to an active volcano is a truly exciting experience. The views were stunning of the whole area and we even witnessed an eruption.

Allocated time: 15 minutes.

Get Closer to An Active Volcano

Sakurajima itinerary - Stunning View at Yunohira Observatory

When we arrived at the Yunohira Observatory (the last stop for the sightseeing tour), we heard some “rumbling noises” from the volcano and were surprised by how loud it was. Some mini eruptions were happening and it was certainly an amazing experience.

We came on the perfect day as the sky was blue and the volcano was not full of clouds.

A magnificent view of the active volcano that erupts quite regularly. Great photos were taken from the lookout. The views of the sea and the surroundings are truly stunning A highlight of our trip. Just beautiful!

Sakurajima Visitor Center

Our last stop was the foot bath before we headed back to the ferry terminal. We took a short walk in the beautiful park (got off at the Visitor’s center). You can spend some time exploring the area such as visiting Sakurajima Visitor Center, taking a lava trail walk, or taking a hot footbath with a nice view.

Sakurajima Visitor Center

Visitors also can spend some time at Sakurajima Visitor Center. It has a small museum where you can learn about Sakurajima.

Learning Volcano at Sakurajima Visitor Center

Sakurajima is an active volcano, erupting about 1000 times per year. Local people are used to the daily eruptions, using a special umbrella against the ashes. There are still some tiny particles of lava dropped on our heads.

The island is covered all over the place with grey volcanic sand which is continuously collected into yellow bags which you will see everywhere in rather huge amounts. Very organized indeed.

Footbath at Sakurajima

Kirishima Kinkowan National Park

Sakurajima is part of the Kirishima Kinkowan National Park. 

Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park

The Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park Footbath is the longest foot bath in Japan with 100-m long. The footbath is fed by a natural hot spring from 1,000 m underground is in the park.

Foot bath at Sakurajima

Soak your tired feet in a hot spring foot bath while enjoying the sscenic volcano activity. Do not miss the foot bath with a great view!

Lava Trail Walk

If time is permitted, you can also take a nature hike along the coast with a few kilometers long.

We didn’t take the full route but did the 3km lava trail walk which takes you through hardened lava as well as crops of vegetation that have grown since the last major explosion.

Eat Satsuma mandarins

Eat Satsuma mandarins

At Visitor Center, there is souvenir shop selling fruits and souvenirs on the island. We recommended to try the Satsuma mandarin, one of the famous fruits here. It is very delicious!

You can also see the giant radish in the souvenir shop.

Optional: Buried Torii Gate

If you have time, don’t miss the buried Torii Gate, that was a site to see. Unfortunately, it is hard to access using public transport.

The top of Torii Gate is stuck a meter above the ground after the town was created in about 1914.

More Sakurajima Travel Tips

How long should I spend in Sakurajima?
You could spend 2 hours or an entire day here. It is good to spend half a day on tour around the island.

Is Sakurajima worth visiting?
Definitely Yes! It’s a great half-day excursion to visit the active volcano and is highly recommended.

When is the best time to visit Sakurajima?
We suggest starting your trip early in the morning. It becomes crowded at noon, even in the off-season.

What should I bring or wear when visiting Sakurajima?
It was rather cold there during our visit to Sakurajima. Wear warmly dressed and get yourself a warm drink along the way there. Beware of some ash falling and probably bring a hat or umbrella. Consider wearing a mask too, it was rough on my lungs.

Overall: A Trip To Sakurajima

All in all, a visit to Sakurajima is highly recommended.

Touring around Sakurajima Island and enjoy the impressive volcano erupted. The observatory is very beautiful with many great angles for viewing. There are also other lovely sights as well along the trip. A must-visit place for your trip to Kagoshima.

Traveling to Kagoshima? Here is our travel strories to Kagoshima Prefecture:

Visiting Kyushu and looking for some inspiration for what to do in Kyushu then be sure to read our Kyushu travel blog here:

Kagoshima Itinerary - A Travel Guide Blog

Kagoshima Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Kyushu Japan | 0

Last updated on March 23rd, 2024

Wondering what to do in Kagoshima? Check out this Kagoshima travel guide blog introduce some of the best things to do in the city and create your ultimate Kagoshima itinerary!

Known for the smoking volcano of Sakurajima in South Kyushu, Kagoshima (鹿児島) is one of the popular places to visit. This prefecture is incredibly active geologically and is home to the great volcanoes of Mt. Kirishima and Mt. Sakurajima. It is an ideal place to visit for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or learning about the volcano.

Kagoshima has plenty to offer. This charming city is undeniably the slowly moving island time. Take your time strolling along the rural and town areas, mesmerizing the active volcano in Mt. Sakurajima, exploring the Sengan-en Garden, soaking into the unique hot springs, and tasting the local cuisine. That’s so many things to do for your 1, 2, or even 3 days of Kagoshima itinerary.

In this Kagoshima Travel Guide blog, we’re sharing what to do in Kagoshima, how to get there, what to eat, and other helpful travel tips. Continue reading this Kagoshima itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this charming city.

How Many Days for Kagoshima

Kagoshima Travel Guide

Some travelers visit Kagoshima as a day trip from Fukuoka by using the Shinkansen. The one-way journey will take you about 1.5 hours. But if you’re exploring the area leisurely, we recommend that you spend 2 to 3 days.

Spend one day visiting the city’s major attractions like Sakurajima, and Sengan-en Garden. Next, spend another day visiting the Kirishima or the Ibusuki. The charming Kagoshima is worth more than a day trip.

Best time to visit Kagoshima

Kagoshima is in Southernmost Japan so the weather here is relatively mild year-round. It doesn’t experience extreme weather changes and is unlikely to snow even in winter.

If you’re looking for the absolute best time to go weather-wise, then visit Kagoshima from October to November. The temperature is at its most ideal and there are few rainy days.

How To Get to Kagoshima

Kagoshima is easy to reach by Shinkansen (bullet train) or JR Train. It is also served by highway buses and has an airport close by. 

Getting to Kagoshima by plane: Kagoshima Airport is the closest airport to Kagoshima city. The airport serves a handful of domestic destinations in addition to several international flights from Seoul, Shanghai, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The easiest way to travel from Kagoshima Airport to the city is by taking the direct airport limousine bus into Kagoshima City.

How To Get to Kagoshima from Fukuoka

Getting to Kagoshima by rail: Thanks to excellent rail connections, it is easy to get to Kagoshima from many of Japan’s major cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Kumamoto. Most travelers will probably be arriving via Fukuoka Airport or through some other major city in Japan, then continuing to Kagoshima by train or by bus. The Kagoshima-chuo Station is the terminus of the Kyushu Shinkansen line making it quick and easy to reach.

All rail journeys are covered by the Japan Rail Pass and JR All Kyushu Rail Pass are covered for your journey from Fukuoka to Kagoshima. Travel smart as one return journey of a Shinkansen ride is already worth the price of the pass.

Take note that Kagoshima-Chuo Station (鹿児島中央駅) and Kagoshima Station (鹿児島駅) are not the same! Shinkansen riders should get to Kagoshima-Chuo Station station.

Getting to Kagoshima by bus: Highway buses are running between big cities and small towns in Kyushu. If you’re visiting multiple cities in Kyushu, consider getting the SunQ Pass. This valuable pass will give you unlimited bus rides on consecutive days.

Self-Driving in Kagoshima

Self-driving to Kagoshima: Kagoshima is a very good place for self-driving itineraries in Kyushu. Even though the rail and bus are well-connected to most of the attractions, you can plan your Kagoshima itinerary more flexibly by self-driving. You will have more freedom with your time and you can also stop at various scenic places along the trip.

Check for rental car price from RentalCar.com.

Getting Around in Kagoshima

Getting Around Kagoshima City

Although Kagoshima does not have a subway system, its excellent tram and bus services make navigating the city a breeze.

By Bus: Bus is one of the popular option for getting around in Kagoshima. There are efficient and take you on loops around the city. The buses run every half hour from 8:00 until 17:00. To save money, buy the day pass which costs ¥600 if you plan to take more than 4 rides., this allows you to explore the metropolis regardless of the distance. Another option is boarding a sightseeing bus.

Two types of buses are of most use to visitors to Kagoshima:

  • Machi Meguri Bus is ¥500 for a one-day pass
  • Kagoshima City View Bus is ¥600 for a one-day pass.

These two routes can be used to go in the direction of the seaward area and Shiroyama Observatory. Both buses will stop at major sightseeing spots in the city, including Tenmonkan, Shiroyama Observatory, and Sengan-en Garden.

The Kagoshima City View Bus is located at E-4 Station (East Exit Bus Stop).

Visit Kagoshima Using Tram

By Tram: The best way to see the sites of Kagoshima city is by riding the tram. The Kagoshima City Tram (鹿児島市電) is one of the few remaining streetcar lines in Japan. In addition to being a cool alternative to a bus on a hot day, the flat rate of ¥170 for riding and the frequency of trams make this an excellent way to get around Kagoshima City. Trams run from 6:00 morning until around 23:00 at night.

Most of the time, we are taking the red line when traveling around the Kagoshima’s major attraction.

  • Number 1 (Blue) Line – Taniyama, Korimoto, Kotsukyoku, Takamibaba, Tenmonkan, Kagoshima Station
  • Number 2 (Red) Line – Korimoto, Kagoshima Chuo Station, Takamibaba, Tenmonkan, Kagoshima Station

Kagoshima tram map: https://www.kotsu-city-kagoshima.jp/en/kagoshima-city-tram-routes/

Kagoshima Travel Tip: CUTE Pass

If you plan to visit Kagoshima and Sakurajima on the same day, consider getting the CUTE Pass (One day at ¥1,200 or 2-day at ¥1,800).

Kagoshima Travel Tips

Kagoshima CUTE Pass is a great value transport pass where you may enjoy unlimited rides in most of the public transportation in Kagoshima operated by the city council, like a street car (tram), transit bus, sightseeing buses (Kagoshima City View buses, Sakurajima Island View buses), and ferry service between Kagoshima Chuo and Sakurajima. You’ll receive discounts on the attractions and some shops in the area.

Kagoshima Tourist Information Center

The pass can be purchased at the Tourist Information Center in the Kagoshima-Chuo Station. Please note that Machi Meguri Bus is not included for CUTE pass.

Best Area to Stay in Kagoshima

Staying nearby Kagoshima-chuo, the main station in Kagoshima served with Shinkansen. This place is a good choice if you want to stay close to the transportation hub.

The Tenmonkan area is the best area to stay for first-time visitors to Kagoshima. It’ll put you close to the city’s top tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops, or if you want a travel experience of convenience. The accommodation is also cheaper compared to other areas.

Things to do for Kagoshima itinerary

Kagoshima Itinerary

Next, we will share some of the best things to do in the city in this section of the Kagoshima Travel Guide. It’s best to plan ahead and get the most out of your time there. Follow the Kagoshima itinerary to plan your trip!

Things to do for Kagoshima itinerary:

  • Get closer to the active volcano at Mt Sakurajima
  • Take an Aerial View of Kagoshima from the Shiroyama Observatory
  • Shopping at the Tenmonkan
  • Taste Local Cuisine
  • Explore the Kagoshima Sengan-en Garden
  • Side Trip to Kirishima / Ibusuki

Please note that Sakurajima is the major attraction in the Kagoshima and you might see it at different places at different angles. If you’re on limited time, you’ll need to decide which places to visit to best suit your interests.

Get closer to the active volcano at Mt Sakurajima

Kagoshima Itinerary - Visit Mt Sakurajima

If you’re visiting Kagoshima, consider allowing at least half a day to visit the Sakurajima.

Sakurajima (櫻島) is a magnificent sight and might be the number one reason to come to Kagoshima. It used to be an island until the active volcano erupted in 1914 and connected the island to the Osumi Peninsula. Still, it is one of the most active volcanoes on planet earth erupting on average 1 to 2 times each day in the last couple of decades.

Tour around Sakurajima

From Kagoshima, you can see this active volcano is ever present, around every corner of the city which is very photogenic. But of course, the best way to get closer to the island is to feel the power of nature.

We recommend starting your Kagoshima itinerary with a visit to Sakurajima in the morning. It is one of the major highlights Kagoshima has to offer and make sure to visit it on a clear day.

Kagoshima Itinerary - Visit Sakurajima

Take the ferry to Sakurajima Island and tour around the island to enjoy the impressive volcano erupting. You will have the opportunity to see nature in action with very little effort. There are multiple walking trails, an observatory to view the stunning sights, onsen to spend your day here.

Pro Tips: Get the CUTE Pass or Sakurajima Island View Bus one-day pass to see attractions in Sakurajima. We will share more details during our visit to Sakurajima.

Getting there: From Kagoshima Chuoeki-mae station, board the red line tram toward Kagoshimaeki-mae and get off at Suizokukan-guchi station. This is the closest station to board the ferry to Sakurajima.

Take an Aerial View of Kagoshima from the Shiroyama Observatory

Kagoshima Aerial View from Shiroyama Observatory

On a clear day, get to Mt Shiroyama and see an unobstructed view of Kagoshima from the Shiroyama Observatory. This place has the best scenic view of downtown Kagoshima, Kagoshima Bay, and Sakurajima from aerial.

Bring a snack or drink and enjoy the scenery from the park. It is a really nice spot for a break.

Night View from Shiroyama Observatory

From the mountain, the view towards the Sakurajima volcano is truly magnificent. It is particularly beautiful during the day as you can see the whole city together with the Sakurajima from above. The view is quite spectacular at night as well.

Getting there: From Kagoshima Chuo Station, board the Kagoshima City View bus and get off at Shiroyama. The journey takes about 30 minutes.

Taste Local Cuisine

Kagoshima Itinerary - Taste Local Cuisine

There are a variety of food options to try in Kagoshima and local cuisine is something you should definitely try in Kagoshima. This prefecture is not only blessed with the bountiful sea and nature but is also a treasure trove of delicious food that can only be found here.

There are many places to eat in Kagoshima to try local cuisine.

One of must-eat food to eat in Kagoshima is the Berkshire pork. The Berkshire pork is a Kagoshima specialty. The Berkshire pigs raised in Kagoshima are sweet and have a strong, juicy flavor. Because the heritage breed’s fat melts at a high temperature, it also has a refreshing taste without being sticky.

Try unique Kagoshima food like Kagoshima Ramen and Kagoshima Kurobuta Pork!

Shopping at the Tenmonkan

Kagoshima Travel Blog - Shopping at Tenmonkan

Tenmonkan is a lively shopping district that spans several blocks of the city. It has an old-style covered shopping street where you can find many boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and pubs.

Depending on how you plan your Kagoshima itinerary, you can save this place towards the end of your trip. There are plenty of shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and products.

Kagoshima Itinerary - Shopping at the Tenmonkan

Besides, Tenmonkan is also the best place to try some of Kagoshima’s local cuisine. There are many restaurants and eateries at this local street market where you can stop by for lunch, snack time, dinner, and even supper. At night, the area lights up with crowded bars and pubs where you can chill with a drink.

Explore the Kagoshima Sengan-en Garden

Built in 658, Sengan-en Garden (仙巖園) is a traditional Japanese Garden passed down by the Shimazu Clan who ruled Satsuma (now Kagoshima) during the Japanese Edo Period (1603-1867). It was once used as a villa for the Shimazu family and is open to public view for visit.

The 50,000 sq meters grounds are beautifully crafted with Japanese gardens with ponds, bridges, trees, plants, and a great walking area. The garden is very beautiful and it known as features an unobstructed view of Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay. Many Japanese films even used the garden for filming. Absolutely stunning!

Senganen is located around 35 minutes by bus from Kagoshima-chuo Station. It is open daily from 9:00 to 17:00. Admission to Sengan-en Garden costs JP¥1,000. Entry to the garden museum is included, but some residence houses inside the garden require an extra fee. Allow a couple of hours minimum to wander this beautiful place.

There are also some shops selling souvenirs as well as some local snacks. You can also stop by the trendy Starbucks next to the gardens as well. This location, a remodeling of a building owned by the Shimazu family, is officially registered as a Tangible Cultural Property. You can even see Sakurajima from the cafe windows on clear days!

As we spend too much time in Sakurajima, we have to take out Senganen from our Kagoshima itinerary. If you have more time to spend in Kagoshima, consider visiting this beautiful cultural garden in the city.

Getting there: From Kagoshima Chuo Station, board the Kagoshima City View bus and get off at Sengan-en Mae. The journey takes about 50 minutes.

More time for the Kagoshima itinerary?

If you have extra days, there are also some options for side trips from Kagoshima where you’ll find the marvelous hot spring at Kirishima, Ibusuki area known for the sand bath, and Satsuma Penisula.

Enjoy the Hot Spring at Kirishima

Frpm Kagoshima to Kirishima

The neighborhood Kirishima is one of the popular places to couple with the Kagoshima itinerary. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including volcanic lakes and scenic hiking trails. Plus, there is an expansive area of Kirishima that is blessed and boasted with some fantastic natural hot springs. Many onsen accommodations are available for you to experience and enjoy the natural hot spring in Kirishima.

To get there, take the JR train from Kagoshima Station to Kirishima-Jingu Station. The journey takes about 50 – 60 minutes.

Read More: Kirishima Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Experience Sand Bath at Ibusuki

Another popular place to pair the Kagoshima itinerary with a visit to Ibusuki. It is a popular place to experience the unique sand bath here. Your entire body will be buried in the sand that has been heated by an underground hot spring. It is said to have a detoxing effect and is good for health.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to visit the Ibusuki. So, we’re focusing on Kagoshima and Kirishima with a snapshot of the top highlights.

More Kagoshima Travel Tips

Can we visit Kagoshima from Fukuoka on a day trip?
A day trip to Kagoshima from Fukuoka is doable. But we recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days to visit all the major attractions and nearby neighborhoods like Kirishima and Ibusuki. Kagoshima is worth more than a day trip!

Is Kagoshima worth a visit?
While Kagoshima is not on a typical itinerary for Japan, the city does have some charm with fewer tourists and sightseeing activities. We truly enjoyed our visit to Kagoshima and highly recommend it.

Why is Kagoshima so popular?
Kagoshima is incredibly active geologically and is home to the great volcanoes of Mt. Sakurajima and the hot spring paradise Kirishima. An ideal place to visit for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or learning about the volcano.

Overview: A Visit To Kagoshima

All in all, we hope this Kagoshima Travel Guide blog is able to inspire you to include this place on your Kagoshima itinerary. We truly enjoyed our visit and highly recommended it. It is worth the long journey there to see all the breathtaking natural attractions. If you have the chance to stop by Kagoshima, go for it!

Traveling to Kyushu and looking for more travel inspiration? Check out other Kyushu blog articles on my site or if you have any questions don’t hesitate to drop us an email if you need any information and help on the Kagoshima travel guide.

Traveling to Kagoshima? Here is our travel strories to Kagoshima Prefecture:

Visiting Kyushu and looking for some inspiration for what to do in Kyushu then be sure to read our Kyushu travel blog here: