Location: Kagoshima
Top Things to do in Kagoshima
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10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Kagoshima That You Shouldn't Miss
Take a quick ferry ride to Mount Sakurajima, a smoldering volcano, Or, if you prefer to view active volcanoes from a more comfortable distance, stop at one of the many lookout points around the city. (Siroyama Observatory is a good choice.) Finally, if there’s anything better than a foot bath after a long day of sightseeing, it’s a free foot bath after a long day of sightseeing… and you can enjoy one at Sakurajima Nagisa Foot Bath Park.
Restaurants in Kagoshima
1. Mount Sakurajima
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,855 reviews
A 15-minute ferry ride takes you to this smoking volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in Japan.
Reviewed By 111gedk - London, United Kingdom
This is an active volcano. It's perpetually smoking and people live on the lower slopes. There's an observation platform in Kagoshima that you can get to by bus for a fantastic view of this natural wonder. It's a live volcano, of course you want to make the effort to see it!
2. Sengan-en
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,276 reviews
Sengan-en is a traditional Japanese garden and stately home that has been passed down in the Shimadzu family for over 350 years. The garden boasts spectacular views of active volcano Sakurajima, and the house provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of a powerful feudal lord. Sengan-en and the surrounding area was fundamentally important in the modernization of Japan. It was here that Western industrial technology was introduced to Japan, studied and used in the creation of modern factories. Shoko Shuseikan is a museum set in a 150 year old stone building originally used as a machine factory. Learn about the 800 year history and culture of the Shimadzu family, and the first steps towards the industrialization of Japan. In July, 2015 Sengan-en and Shoko Shuseikan were recognized as World Cultural Heritage Sites related to Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution.
Reviewed By 1760022 - Tokyo Prefecture, Japan
Driving down from Kumamoto, I chose Sengan-en to view Sakurajima, rather than go to the observatory or the prefectural building and I am glad I did. The gardens were constructed in the 1650's by the Shimazu family, which ruled the area for a considerable time. They couldn't have picked a better spot with its stunning views of Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay. The residence, which was rebuilt in the late 1800's and the rooms show life at it was in those days. There are two restaurants and a matcha cafe, gift shops with local crafts of wood and satsuma kiriko (cut-glass crystal), and snacks, sweets and delicacies. Entrance is 1300 yen for the garden, museum and house (recommended) or just 1000 yen for the garden and museum. My wife and I spent about 3 hours there. This is one place that shouldn't be missed.
3. Sakura Jima Ferry
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,057 reviews
Reviewed By minxdragon - Melbourne, Australia
Beautiful vintage looking ferries with plenty of seating and even a ramen shop! There is a lift for people with disabilities but it is slow. Very fast and comfortable ride to the island
4. Kagoshima City Aquarium
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 389 reviews
A fascinating array of fish, crabs, squid, octopi and other creatures from Japanese waters, including the world’s largest eel, is viewable at this impressive aquarium.
Reviewed By hokenyu - Hong Kong, China
An exceptional aquarium experience with very well-designed exhibits. A great variety of aquatic life, with an especially big tank full of many fish upon entry (and a ride up an escalator). Dolphin shows for kids and adults alike, and many education displays as well. Part of the museum has seawater intake from the bay - fascinating!
5. Museum of the Meiji Restoration
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 430 reviews
Reviewed By rpver
This is a very interesting museum showing the importance of the people from Kagoshima at the end of the Shogunate era. The Restoration Experience Hall has two performances throughout the day with robots explaining the Satsuma history from the end of the Shogunate era to the Meiji Restoration and of the Satsuma students going abroad to study in the UK. You can request headsets to follow the dialogue in English (and probably other languages). You can follow many displays throughout the museum using an app that provides an explanation in English. The entrance fee is reasonable- 300 Yen for adults, 150 yen for children. It is about a 650 meter walk from the Kagoshima Chuo Station.
6. AMU PLAZA KAGOSHIMA
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 396 reviews
We are a shopping center AMU PLAZA KAGOSHIMA . We locate in Kagoshima city. You can enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment found only at AMU PLAZA KAGOSHIMA. There are about 200 shops in AMU PLAZA KAGOSHIMA, and about 90 shops are taxs free.
Reviewed By BetsyHK - Hong Kong, China
We had a wonderful time exploring the stores and people watching one afternoon. You can find everything from kitchen items to everything Pickachu and a range of styles and prices if you are looking for clothing. Save time to wander in the basement through the grocery store and many food outlets. I wish that we had planned for a picnic dinner as there were so many delicious items to choose from.
7. Shiroyama Observatory
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 611 reviews
Reviewed By WMGCasm - Kagoshima, Japan
I visit this site frequently just to relax and view the city and Mt. Sakurajima. Hands down, the best view of Kagoshima City and Mt. Sakurajima, Kinko Bay, and on a clear day, all the way to Mt. Kaimon. Friendly English guides are on hand to answer questions. The illumination is still up and beautiful.
