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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Kagoshima City.
Nestled in the heart of Kyushu, lies a vibrant city bursting with cultural wonders and natural beauty.
Kagoshima City offers a myriad of experiences ranging from indulging in local cuisine to exploring smoking volcanoes that paint the skyline a rosy sunset.
Join us on a journey through this enchanting city, where every street corner leads to a new adventure.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kagoshima City:
1. Sakurajima
An active volcano located in Kagoshima Bay, Japan.
What to see or do: Witness the volcanic activity up close, take a ferry ride around the island, hike to the summit for panoramic views, visit the Sakurajima Visitor Center to learn about the volcano’s history and geology.
Don’t miss: The Yogan Nagisa Park, where you can witness lava flowing into the ocean, the Sakurajima Onsen hot springs, and the stunning views of Kagoshima Bay from the ferry.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the volcano’s activity level before visiting and wear appropriate gear for hiking. It’s also recommended to bring a facemask due to volcanic ash in the air.
If you have time, explore the nearby city of Kagoshima, famous for its black pork, shochu, and historical sites such as Sengan-en Garden and the Reimeikan Museum.
2. Sengan-en
A Japanese garden with a pond, traditional buildings, and a view of Sakurajima volcano.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and appreciate the carefully designed landscape, including the unique volcanic rock formations. Visit the Shoko Shuseikan Museum to learn about the history and cultural heritage of Kagoshima.
Enjoy a cup of green tea and a traditional Japanese sweet at one of the tea rooms on the grounds.
Don’t miss: The view of Sakurajima volcano from the garden is truly spectacular, especially on a clear day. Also, don’t miss the elaborate koi fish in the pond which are fed daily by the garden staff.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning when the garden is quiet and peaceful. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as the garden paths are mostly unpaved.
Take a guided tour of the Shoko Shuseikan Museum to fully appreciate the exhibits and artifacts.
3. Shiroyama Observatory
Shiroyama Observatory is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kagoshima City, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kagoshima City, Kinko Bay, and Sakurajima volcano from the top of the Shiroyama Mountain.
Explore the nearby Shiroyama Park, which boasts stunning natural scenery and historical landmarks, including the Reimeikan Museum and the Iso Garden.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the observation deck at night for a spectacular view of the city lights and starry sky.
It’s also worth checking out the Shiroyama Shrine, located near the observatory, and the memorial statue for Saigo Takamori, a prominent leader in the Meiji Restoration.
Insider travel tips: Be prepared for a hike up to the observatory, as there are several stairways and steep slopes.
The best time to visit is during the cherry blossom season in late March to early April, when the park is covered in beautiful pink blooms.
Don’t forget your camera and binoculars for amazing photo opportunities!
4. Iso Beach
A serene and secluded beach located in Kagoshima City in Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning view of the ocean and the Kagoshima Bay while relaxing on the sandy shore. Visitors can also go for a swim or enjoy various water activities like snorkeling and diving.
Don’t miss: Take a stroll along the beach during the sunset and watch the beautiful colors of the sky reflecting on the ocean.
Keep an eye out for sea turtles that often frequent the area.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own food and drinks as there are limited options available nearby.
The beach can be accessed by car or bus, and visitors are advised to check the tide schedule before planning their visit.
5. Dolphin Port
Dolphin Port is a popular leisure complex located in Kagoshima City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of fun activities and attractions at Dolphin Port, including shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
There is an aquarium within the complex, where visitors can view a diverse range of marine life, from dolphins and turtles to colorful fish and sea creatures.
The complex also features a cinema, a bowling alley, and a game center. Visitors can also take a stroll around the marina and enjoy views of Kagoshima Bay.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Dolphin Port is the dolphin show, where visitors can watch the playful mammals perform acrobatic tricks and jumps in a large pool.
The show takes place several times a day and is a must-see for families with kids.
Insider travel tips: Dolphin Port is easily accessible by bus or train from central Kagoshima City. We recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds and to secure a good spot for the dolphin show.
If you’re interested in trying local cuisine, head to the Kagomma Furusato Yataimura food village within the complex, where you can sample a variety of traditional dishes from Kagoshima.
6. Kagoshima City Aquarium
The Kagoshima City Aquarium is a popular attraction located in Kagoshima City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a wide variety of marine life including dolphins, seals, sea turtles, and various species of fish. The aquarium also features a large outdoor pool where visitors can watch dolphins jump and perform tricks.
In addition to the animal exhibits, there are also educational displays explaining the marine ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts.
Don’t miss: The dolphin show is a must-see attraction at the Kagoshima City Aquarium. Visitors can watch as the dolphins jump, spin, and interact with their trainers in a high-energy performance.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and book tickets in advance if possible. There are also discounts available for groups, so consider visiting with friends or family.
Be sure to check the daily schedule to plan your visit around the dolphin show times.
Lastly, don’t forget to visit the gift shop on your way out for a unique souvenir of your visit to the Kagoshima City Aquarium.
7. Kagoshima City Museum of Art
The Kagoshima City Museum of Art is a modern and contemporary art museum located in Kagoshima, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a diverse collection of art from both Japanese and international artists. The museum also houses temporary exhibitions and installations throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The museum’s rooftop garden offers stunning views of Kagoshima City and Sakurajima, the city’s iconic active volcano.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is conveniently located near the Kagoshima Chuo Station, making it easily accessible by train.
8. Terukuni Shrine
Terukuni Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kagoshima City, established in the 14th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the impressive architecture of the shrine, which is characterized by its bright vermillion color. The grounds are also home to several impressive wooden torii gates and other decorative structures.
Don’t miss: One of the most popular attractions at Terukuni Shrine is the rare black-crested crane, which is kept in a small enclosure on the shrine grounds.
Visitors can see the bird up close and learn about its significance to Japanese culture.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during one of the shrine’s many festivals to experience traditional Japanese customs and see the grounds decorated with colorful banners.
9. Kagoshima Castle
Kagoshima Castle was built in the 17th century and served as the seat of the Shimazu clan, one of the most powerful feudal clans in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the reconstructed castle tower, which houses a museum with exhibits about the castle’s history and the Shimazu clan.
The castle’s grounds also feature various traditional Japanese gardens and parks.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning views of Sakurajima, an active volcano, from the castle grounds.
Additionally, be sure to check out the Tombs of the Saigō Family, which are located nearby and offer further insight into the history of the Shimazu clan.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the spring to see the cherry blossom trees in full bloom around the castle grounds. It’s also recommended to take a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history and significance.
10. Tsurumaru Castle Ruins
Tsurumaru Castle Ruins, a historical landmark located in Kagoshima City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy exploring the ruins of the castle, which was constructed in the 16th century.
The site provides a glimpse into the history of the Shimazu family, a prominent samurai clan, and the political and military climate of feudal Japan.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the stone walls and gates that remain from the original castle, as well as the observation deck, which offers breathtaking views of Kagoshima City and the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking required to explore the ruins. Additionally, be sure to bring a camera for capturing the picturesque scenery.
Finally, consider visiting during cherry blossom season or in the fall for optimal viewing of the beautiful foliage.
11. Reimeikan
A fascinating museum dedicated to the history and culture of Kagoshima.
What to see or do: Marvel at the collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the local history, including the Satsuma Rebellion and the Meiji Restoration.
Explore the life and legacy of famous figures from Kagoshima like Saigo Takamori and Shimazu Nariakira.
Don’t miss: The interactive displays that allow you to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Kagoshima. Also, don’t forget to check out the beautiful Japanese garden outside the museum.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning to avoid the crowds. Take advantage of the English audio guide to learn more about the exhibits.
Combine your visit to Reimeikan with a trip to nearby Sengan-en, a stunning traditional Japanese garden and villa complex.
12. Kagoshima Botanical Garden
The Kagoshima Botanical Garden is a beautiful garden located in the heart of the city of Kagoshima. Home to over 5,000 species of plants, the garden is a heaven for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the various gardens and greenhouses of the botanical garden, which has a vast collection of plants from tropical, subtropical and temperate regions of the world.
The garden is divided into several zones like the Japanese garden, South American garden, African garden, and many more! There are also several small ponds and streams that add to the natural beauty of the garden.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the botanical garden is the Tropical and Subtropical Greenhouse, which features plants from Southeast Asia, Oceania, and South America.
Visitors can spot exotic plants like the famous carnivorous Nepenthes plant, pitcher plants, and the giant Amazon water lily.
Other highlights include the Japanese garden, which features beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring, and the Tropical Orchid and Bromeliad Greenhouse.
Insider travel tips: – The botanical garden can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.
13. Kinko Bay Cruise
A scenic boat ride through Kinko Bay in Kagoshima City, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and nearby Sakurajima volcano.
What to see or do: Enjoy the breathtaking views of Kagoshima’s coastline, including lush green mountains and the vibrant blue sea. Observe the active Sakurajima volcano and experience the unique geography of Kagoshima Bay.
Don’t miss: Capture stunning photos of the picturesque scenery of the bay and the volcano. Get a chance to see dolphins and turtles swimming alongside the boat.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to take the cruise is in the morning when the weather is clearer and offers better visibility.
14. Museum of the Meiji Restoration
The Museum of the Meiji Restoration is a museum that showcases the events and history of the Meiji Restoration, a significant period in Japan’s history that saw the end of the Tokugawa shogunate and the beginning of a new era of modernization.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibits that feature various artifacts, documents, and multimedia displays that illustrate the events leading up to, during, and after the restoration.
Learn about the key figures who played a role in this pivotal moment in Japan’s history and how their actions continue to influence Japan today.
Don’t miss: The large-scale diorama that recreates the Battle of Tabaruzaka, one of the key events of the Meiji Restoration.
The detailed model shows the battle in action and is accompanied by an audio commentary that brings the scene to life.
Insider travel tips: – Take advantage of the museum’s audio guide in English to learn even more about the exhibits and history of the Meiji Restoration.
15. Amuran Ferris Wheel
A towering Ferris wheel in Kagoshima City, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a ride on the Amuran Ferris Wheel and enjoy stunning views of the city, Sakurajima volcano, and the bay. The ride takes about 15 minutes and offers a bird’s-eye view of the city.
Don’t miss: The evening illumination of the Ferris wheel. The LED lights on the wheel change colors, making for a beautiful and romantic sight.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the evening to see the city and volcano lit up. Additionally, going to the Ferris wheel during sunset can offer breathtaking views.
Be sure to get your camera ready!