Browse attractions and highlights across Kagoshima, and build your itinerary around them.
Kagoshima
A historic landscape of terraced rice fields dating back to the Edo period. Observe the unique 'Mushagaeshi' stone walls and the traditional rural scenery of a premium rice-producing region.
Ibusuki Onsen offers the rare experience of natural sand steam baths. Being wrapped in warm sand and listening to the ocean waves provides a supreme sense of healing that helps you forget daily stresses. Be sure to include this unique experience in your Kagoshima itinerary.
A stunning island in Kagoshima defined by its pristine seas and the welcoming 'Tanegashima DNA.' A perfect escape for nature lovers and culture seekers.
Discover the beauty of modern architecture and Kagoshima's rich artistic heritage at the Kagoshima City Museum of Art. A perfect place for a high-quality art experience in the peaceful, natural setting of Shiroyama.
A historical museum where you can experience the life and spirit of Saigo Takamori. Through dioramas and rare artifacts, you can deeply understand the history of the Meiji Restoration and the Satsuma Rebellion. A must-visit when touring Kagoshima.
A historic shrine in Izumi featuring Japan's largest bell. The massive 4-meter, 5-ton bell with its beautiful crane carvings is a breathtaking sight. Perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful encounter with Japanese tradition and nature.
Explore the Taisho Lava Field at the foot of Sakurajima's Minamidake. This spot offers stunning views of the conical peak, Kinko Bay, and Mt. Kaimon. Walk the 1km trail to find the unique Lion Rock and poetic monuments amidst a dynamic volcanic landscape.
A sacred site in Ibusuki known for its ancient legends, including the 'Tama-no-I' well and the beautiful Honden shrine, all set against the majestic backdrop of Mt. Kaimon.
Hanase Nature Park features a stunning stone riverbed and lush greenery. It is an ideal base for camping and leisure, offering seasonal beauty from spring blossoms to summer music festivals.
Kanosuke Distillery is where traditional craftsmanship meets next-generation whisky-making in Kagoshima. Through their guided tours, you can touch the very essence of Japanese craftsmanship.
A beautiful Japanese-Western fusion building and a component of the UNESCO World Heritage 'Sites of Japan' Industrial Revolution.' Its colonial-style veranda and 1867-built structure offer a captivating glimpse into history.
Experience the awe-inspiring scale of the Giant Banyan Tree of Tejuku-ku. With a 42m canopy and a history of over 100 years, this mystical site is the ultimate spiritual power spot on Kikaijima. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a moment of profound tranquility.
A historic charcoal kiln site part of the UNESCO World Heritage 'Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution.' Experience the 19th-century stone-stacking craftsmanship amidst a serene, nature-filled environment.
A limited-time spectacle! From May to September, the Meiji-era brick ruins emerge from the bottom of the dam, looking like a mysterious European castle. Capture this one-of-a-kind fusion of history and nature with your camera.
Witness the breathtaking view of 'Tenjin-jima' floating on the sea! This photogenic spot, one of the Kanoya Hakkei, offers a mystical sight during high tide. A must-visit stop during your coastal drive.
Tokushige Jinja is a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of nature in Kagoshima. It is a perfect spot for travelers seeking to experience traditional Japanese spirituality and a moment of profound stillness amidst beautiful greenery.
A premier aquarium featuring Kagoshima's unique marine life like Whale Sharks and the Satsuma ribbon worm. Enjoy the massive Kuroshio Grand Tank, dolphin shows, and interactive digital experiences.
Experience the pinnacle of Satsama ware. A special place to witness the profound beauty and tradition of Japanese ceramics in a serene, artistic setting.
A breathtaking site featuring massive boulders with unique textures formed over 110,000 years. Enjoy the stunning mountain views from the hilltop wooden observatory.
A massive rose garden featuring 25,000 rose bushes. Visit around Golden Week in May for the spectacular early-season full bloom. With an observation deck and camping facilities, it is a perfect spot for a nature-filled getaway.
Experience the vivid colors of Ikson Tanaka's art in a space that resonates with the nature of Amami. A serene journey through Japanese art and subtropical beauty.
A majestic 46-meter high waterfall and a famous landmark of the Satsuma region. Recognized as one of the '100 Best Waterfalls in Japan,' it offers a powerful and historic natural experience.
Experience the traditional white-clad rituals of Seppeto-be, an intangible cultural property in Hioki City, Kagoshima, that preserves the region's historical essence.
Explore the beautiful streets of samurai residences and historical sites in Chiran. Enjoy a journey through traditional gardens and significant military heritage.
Ryumonji-zaka is a National Historic Site that preserves the atmosphere of the Edo-period Satsuma Kaido. Walk through the stone-paved slopes and feel the footsteps of history amidst beautiful nature.
A stunning viewpoint overlooking Sakurajima and the Kirishima mountains! With a Ferris wheel, go-karts, and pitter golf, it is a perfect spot for all ages. Experience the beauty of cherry blossoms and azaleas in a lush, natural setting.
A massive cave designated as a National Natural Monument. The sight of the massive arched ceiling and the dynamic geological layers is a must-see. It is a mystical spot in Kagoshima where you can explore both geological wonders and local cultural legends.
Experience a world of light at Tokushige Shrine this October. The Myoenji Mairi event offers a breathtaking view of countless lanterns illuminating the history of the Shimazu clan in a truly magical atmosphere.
Miamiki Jinja in Ibusuki, Kagoshima, is famous for its beautiful vermilion shrine buildings facing Mt. Kaimon. It is a special destination where you can experience Japanese history through the 'Tamatebako' treasure exhibit and the traditional Hozé Festival in October.
A special New Year's ritual held at 12:00 AM and 2:00 AM on January 1st. The powerful Taiko drumming by performers in Kumen masks offers a moving experience that perfectly celebrates the beginning of the year.
桜島自然恐竜公園をお楽しみください。
Explore the beautifully preserved Kaseda Fumoto, a Japan Heritage site in Minamisatsuma. Walk through historic samurai districts with stone walls, water channels, and nearly 100 historic buildings that showcase the transition from the Edo to the Meiji era.
Yobara Kumano Shrine is a historic site with origins in the Nara period. It is a premier destination for witnessing the traditional 'Kamimai' dance in autumn, offering a deep dive into Kagoshima's cultural heritage.
Terukuni Shrine is the guardian deity of Kagoshima City. It is a cultural landmark where you can encounter the National Treasure Tachi 'Kunimune' and the Terukuni Bunko Archives. It is also a significant site for seasonal festivals and traditional life-milestone ceremonies.
丸尾滝をお楽しみください。
Experience the beautiful Nagashi-hina at Sengan-en in late February. Watch colorful dolls and seasonal flowers float gracefully on the water, offering a profound sense of Japanese tradition against the breathtaking backdrop of Sakurajima.
Experience the historic Hatsuuma-sai at Kagoshima Jingu, featuring the mesmerizing 'Suzukake Uma Odori' where horses dance to the sound of bells. This special event takes place on the first Day of the Horse in February.
A premier museum in Kagoshima housing the Important Cultural Properties of the Shimazu clan. Experience the true essence of samurai culture through beautifully restored historical documents and artifacts.
Experience the 1,600-year-old tradition of the Sendai Otsunahiki, featuring a massive 7-ton, 365-meter straw rope. A powerful cultural spectacle in Satsuma-Sendai, Kagoshima.
大隅弥五郎伝説の里をお楽しみください。
Experience the profound beauty of 'Yunoo Jinja Kanmai' on the night of November 23rd. This 500-year-old masked drama from Kagoshima, set to the sounds of traditional flutes and drums, offers a breathtaking glimpse into Japanese mythology.
Experience 'Oni-oi,' a rare traditional ritual held only on the night of January 7th. The sight of the Oni emerging through the illuminated bamboo forest to the beat of the Kishen drums offers a powerful and mystical glimpse into Japan's spiritual traditions.
Experience world-class snorkeling in crystal clear waters. Don't forget your water shoes!
A 300-year-old tradition in Kanoya City. This powerful ritual of intertwining two wooden poles is a unique way to pray for a bountiful harvest. Held every 3rd Sunday of February, it offers a rare glimpse into Japan's deep-rooted cultural heritage.
