Kagoshima Japan 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Kagoshima Itinerary: Volcanoes, Culture & Relaxation

This itinerary balances exploring the unique natural and cultural attractions of Kagoshima with some time for relaxation. It can be adjusted to fit your personal interests and travel style.

Day 1: Sakurajima & Volcanic Views

  • Morning: Arrive at Kagoshima Airport (KOJ).

  • Afternoon: Travel to Kagoshima City (approx. 30 min by bus or taxi). Visit the Kagoshima Tourist Information Center for maps, brochures and helpful advice. Take a ferry across to Sakurajima Island, home to Japan’s most active volcano. Explore the island, hike up the slopes (if conditions allow), and witness the fiery spectacle of the volcano in action from the Sakurajima Ferry Terminal or climb to the Showa Crater Observatory for breathtaking views and a chance to see volcanic activity.

  • Things to know:

    • Check the status of Sakurajima before your trip as it is an active volcano and access to some areas may be restricted.
    • Stay alert for volcanic ash warnings and adjust your itinerary accordingly.

  • Where to eat: Enjoy fresh seafood and a view of Sakurajima at Sakurajima Seafood Restaurant near the ferry terminal.

  • Transportation: Buses and taxis are readily available from the airport to Kagoshima City. From the island, explore local bus options or ferries to different parts of the island.

Day 2: Volcanic History & Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit the Sakurajima Visitor Center, a great place to learn about the volcano’s history and impressive eruptions.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Sakurajima Volcano Museum for interactive exhibits and insights into volcanic phenomena.
  • Evening: Relax at a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) like the Ibusuki Onsen with its unique sand baths, or enjoy a peaceful stroll through the Sengan-en Garden, a beautiful historical garden with stunning views of Sakurajima.

Day 3: Exploring Kagoshima City

  • Morning: Take a walk through Sakurajima Ferry Park, where you can see the volcanic eruption from a safe distance and learn about the volcano’s impact on the local landscape.
  • Afternoon: Discover the history and culture of Kagoshima City. Visit the Sengan-en Garden, the Museum of the Meiji Restoration to understand the region’s pivotal role in Japan’s modernization, or the Terukuni Shrine, a grand shrine dedicated to the powerful Shimazu clan.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious meal at Kagoshima Ramen Gyozan, known for its unique and flavorful “kagoshima ramen” with pork bone broth.

Day 4: History & Nature

  • Morning: Explore the Sengan-en Garden’s historical significance. Learn about the samurai who once ruled from the top of this beautiful garden.
  • Afternoon: Visit Samurai Museum, a fascinating museum showcasing the history and weaponry of the Shimazu clan, or learn about the local volcanic activity at the Sakurajima Volcano Observatory.

Day 5: Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Experience the vibrant Kagoshima Central Market and enjoy fresh seafood.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the traditional Japanese arts by visiting the Sakurajima Visitor Center, which often hosts workshops and demonstrations.
  • Evening: Savor authentic Kagoshima cuisine at Tsuruda, a local restaurant known for its fresh catches and traditional cooking techniques.

Day 6: Farewell Kagoshima

  • Morning: Explore the Kagoshima City Aquarium, home to diverse marine life and a captivating view of the “volcano aquarium” with its unique focus on creatures that thrive in extreme environments.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a final afternoon at the Tsuruda Sushi Restaurant for a delicious meal.

Transportation:

  • Public transportation: The city boasts a comprehensive public transport system, including buses and trams. Utilize the Sakurajima Ferry to reach the island. For exploring the city itself, the “Kagoshima City Tramway” is a great option with its extensive network and charming stops.

Things to note:

  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially during typhoon season (August-October).
  • Volcanic activity: Check local news and advisories for updates on Sakurajima’s activity before your trip.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel: For a comfortable stay in Kagoshima City, consider the Hotel Southern Cross, which offers stunning views of the city and its iconic volcano.
  • Ryokan: If you want to experience traditional Japanese hospitality, try staying at a ryokan (traditional inn) instead of a hotel. They offer tatami rooms, communal baths, and delicious meals.

Food:

  • Japanese Cuisine: Enjoy local delicacies like “kagami mochi” (round rice cakes) and “shochu” (a traditional Japanese liquor) at the various restaurants in Kagoshima City.
  • Local Specialties: Try “kurobuta” (black pork) dishes, a popular culinary tradition in the region.

Things to do:

  • Explore the active volcano: Visit the Sakurajima Visitor Center, located near the base of the volcano, for information and exhibits on this geological wonder.
  • Visit the Sakurajima Aquarium: This unique attraction showcases the diversity of marine life found around the island’s volcanic surroundings.

Food & Food Experiences:

  • Enjoy a local “shoku-eki” (food market) experience:

    • Sengan-en Garden offers a variety of Japanese dishes and snacks, including some made with fresh ingredients from the local market.

  • Local Cuisine:

    • Terukuni Shrine: Enjoy a traditional “Kagoshima ramen” lunch at one of the many ramen stalls near the Sengan-en visitor center.

  • Discover “shoku” (food) experiences:

  • Take advantage of the “Shoku” (food) culture:

    • “Shoku” is a Japanese word for “food,” and it’s a great idea to explore this theme in Kagoshima.

Here are some ideas for specific activities:

  • Visit a traditional “izakaya” (Japanese pub): These casual pubs are perfect for sampling a range of local dishes and drinks.

Transportation Tips:

  • Public Transportation: The Kagoshima City Tram, a unique historical tram system, is a great way to experience the city and see its many attractions.**

  • Consider a JR Pass: If you plan on doing some train travel while in Japan, a Japan Rail (JR) Pass can be a good option. It gives you unlimited rides on most trains for a set period of time.

Things to Consider:

  • Budget: “Sukiya” restaurants are affordable and offer a variety of set menus.

  • Accommodation:

    • Book in advance: Popular accommodations like hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) can get booked up quickly, especially during peak season.

Timing:

  • Consider the timing of your trip: Volcanoes are active throughout the year, but it’s best to check the local weather forecast for any potential volcanic activity warnings.
  • Travel between islands: You can take a ferry from Kyushu (where Kagoshima is located) to other nearby islands like Yakushima and Tanegashima.

Beyond the Volcano:

  • Explore other attractions: Consider adding activities like “Onsen hopping” (visiting different onsen) or hiking in the beautiful Sakurajima Nature Park.

  • Local Experiences:

    • Consider a guided tour: To experience the best of Kagoshima’s history and culture, a guided tour can be insightful.

Remember:

  • Respect safety guidelines: Always follow the instructions and advice of park rangers and local authorities regarding safety around the volcano.

  • Be prepared for volcanic activity:

    • Check for volcanic activity updates before venturing out to any volcano-related sites.

  • Emergency contact information: Keep a list handy of emergency contacts in case you need assistance.

Transportation:

  • Local bus system: The “Sakurayama” area is easily accessible by bus, but be prepared for delays and schedule changes depending on the weather and volcanic activity.

  • Alternative Transportation:

    • Bus & Train Passes: Purchase a “Japan Rail Pass” or a “Sakurajima City bus pass” for convenient and cost-effective travel around the island.

  • **Explore the “Sengan-en” website:

https://www.pref.kagoshima.jp/english/kanko/senganen.html

Enjoy a variety of local experiences:

  • Explore the “Sakurajima” website:

https://www.kagoshima-city.com/en/spot/1079: This website can provide information on all things “Sakurajima,” including volcanic activity updates, local tour information, and “shoku” (food) recommendations.

  • Immerse yourself in the culture: Many restaurants near the volcano offer delicious “Shoku” (Japanese cuisine experiences), with a focus on fresh seafood.

  • Consider:

  • Visiting the “Shobu-no-ike” pond: The name of the mountain literally means “roasted chestnut” (a type of roasted sweet potato). Enjoy a traditional Japanese meal by the pond at the “Kagami Shrine.”

The “Kagami” website: Offers information on the local “Kagami” area and the Kagami Bunko Museum, which showcases the history of the region.

Enjoy a “traditional” experience:

  • **Try using a local “kagami mochi” (black) shop:
* **Order "Kagami Mochi"**:

This traditional Japanese treat is made from pounded rice and is often eaten during the New Year’s celebration.

  • Enjoy a meal at the “Kagami-en”:

Important Notes:

  • Safety First: Always remember to prioritize safety when visiting an active volcano.

  • Follow the Rules: The “Kagami” website will have local guides and information on how to safely enjoy your visit, which are crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip.

  • Respect Nature:

    • Be mindful of the environment and follow all “leave no trace” guidelines when exploring the outdoors.
    • Follow the instructions of the “Kameyama” (volcano) area and local authorities.

Safety & Respect:

  • Check for any recent volcanic activity warnings before embarking on your adventure.

  • Respect the “Kagami” (volcano):

This is a reminder to stay safe, as it’s important to remember that you are near an active volcano and respect the power of nature.