Kagoshima, Japan 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Itinerary for Kagoshima, Japan

Day 1 - Arrival and Sengoku Daitsuuji Temple (仙偶大祠)

  • Arrive at Kagoshima Airport.
  • Check into your hotel in the city center (Recommendation: Hotel Sunroy Kagoshima, a mid-range hotel with good reviews).
  • Visit Sengoku Daitsuuji Temple, one of the most important Shinto shrines in Kyushu. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and architecture.

Day 2 - Sakurajima & Kamishiro Onsen (寒城温泉)

  • Take a ferry to Sakurajima, an active volcanic island with breathtaking views. Don’t miss the lava show at Osumi Observatory.
  • In the afternoon, head to Kamishiro Onsen for a relaxing hot spring experience.

Day 3 - Yakushima Island (屋久島)

  • Take a ferry or flight to Yakushima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient cedar trees and beautiful landscapes.
  • Explore Mikami Bay and the Jomonsugi Tree.
  • Stay overnight at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) on the island.

Day 4 - Return to Kagoshima & Amu Plaza Hands (アムプラザハンズ)

  • Return to Kagoshima and visit Amu Plaza Hands, home to the statue of Saigo Takamori, a famous samurai from Kagoshima.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the city center and shopping for souvenirs.

Day 5 - Ibusuki Sunamushi (いぶすき砂蒸し)

  • Take a day trip to Ibusuki, famous for its sunamushi (hot spring sand bath). It’s a unique experience not to be missed!
  • Return to Kagoshima in the evening.

Day 6 - Kirishima National Park & Satsuma Lunch (薩摩ランチ)

  • Spend the day exploring Kirishima National Park, with its beautiful mountains and hot springs.
  • Enjoy a traditional Satsuma lunch in the park, featuring local dishes like champon noodles and shimofuri tofu.

Day 7 - Departure

  • Spend your last day exploring any sights you missed or revisiting your favorites.
  • Depart from Kagoshima Airport.

Things to Know:

  • Japanese yen is the local currency.
  • English is less commonly spoken than in other parts of Japan, so it may be helpful to have a translation app or phrasebook.
  • The best time to visit is from March to May and from October to November for milder weather.

Transportation:

  • Kagoshima has a comprehensive bus system, as well as a metro line in the city center. Taxis are also widely available.
  • For day trips, consider renting a car or using the local train systems.

Food Recommendations:

  • Satsuma Age (妻瀬揚げ) - deep-fried fish cake from Kagoshima.
  • Kagoshima Ramen (鹿児島ラーメン) - a unique style of ramen with a rich pork broth.
  • Satsuma Imo (薩摩芋) - sweet potato treats, a specialty of the region.