Kagoshima Prefecture is a place rich in nature, history, and culture. Each destination in Kagoshima has its own unique charm and story.
Visiting these places not only offers an immersive experience of natural beauty but also an inspiring glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage.
This article will introduce 10 fascinating tourist attractions in Kagoshima that you should visit when traveling to Japan.
1. Sakurajima
Sakurajima is an active volcano that continues to emit smoke to this day. As an iconic landmark of Kagoshima, it has been designated as a prefectural scenic site since 1954.
With a height of 1,117 meters and a circumference of approximately 52 km, Sakurajima attracts many visitors thanks to its stunning volcanic landscape and abundant natural resources.
Despite its potential dangers, the volcano also provides fertile soil due to its volcanic ash. Some of the region’s famous agricultural products include the Sakurajima daikon radish and small Sakurajima mandarin oranges.
Additionally, natural hot springs formed by volcanic activity offer a relaxing retreat for visitors. Observing the volcanic eruptions up close is also a breathtaking experience.
📍 Address: 61-4 Yokoyama-cho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture
🕒 Opening Hours: 24 hours
💰 Admission: Free
2. Yakushima
Recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 1993, Yakushima is a mystical island that has preserved its ancient forests since the Jomon era.
About 90% of the island is covered in dense forests, home to the legendary “Jomon Sugi” tree, estimated to be over 7,200 years old.
With high rainfall throughout the year, Yakushima boasts lush mossy forests like Shiratani Unsuikyo, which is said to have inspired the movie Princess Mononoke.
The island offers various hiking trails, ranging from easy walks for beginners to extreme routes for professional hikers, allowing visitors to explore Yakushima’s natural beauty in multiple ways.
📍 Address: Yakushima Town, Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture
🕒 Opening Hours: 24 hours
💰 Admission: ¥500 for high school students and above, ¥400 for groups of 15+ people
3. Amami Oshima Island
Located between Kagoshima Prefecture and Okinawa, Amami Oshima is nicknamed “The Closest Island to Paradise”.
With its crystal-clear blue waters and rare biodiversity, the island was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2021.
About 80% of its area is covered in forests, home to many unique species. Visitors can explore the island by hiking or simply strolling through its natural wonders.
📍 Address: Amami City, Ryugo-cho, Yamato-mura, Uken-mura, Setouchi-cho, Kagoshima Prefecture
🕒 Opening Hours: 24 hours (Amami Oshima Tourist Information Center: 09:00 – 18:00)
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4. Sengan-en
Sengan-en is a garden villa built by the Shimazu family during the Edo period and is recognized as a Japanese national scenic site.
Spanning 15,000 square meters, the garden is designed with Kinko Bay and Sakurajima as its backdrop, creating an extraordinary natural panorama.
The site includes various attractions such as the main residence, gardens, and the Shoko Shuseikan Museum, which showcases the history of the Shimazu family.
Visitors can stroll leisurely, dress in samurai attire, craft traditional Satsuma glassware, or try botamochi, a delicacy favored by samurai.
📍 Address: 9700-1 Yoshino-cho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture
🕒 Opening Hours: 09:00 – 17:00
💰 Admission: ¥1,600 (Adults), ¥800 (Elementary – High School Students)
5. Kagoshima Prefectural Government Building
Located in central Kagoshima, the government building features an observation deck on the 18th floor, open until 9:00 PM.
🕒 Opening Hours:
From here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Kinko Bay and Sakurajima free of charge, making it a perfect spot to admire the city’s nightscape.
The building also houses an exhibition area showcasing Kagoshima’s history and culture, as well as a shop selling local specialty products.
📍 Address: 10-1 Kamoike Shinmachi, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture
- Weekdays: 07:00 – 21:00
- Weekends & Holidays: 10:00 – 21:00
💰 Admission: Free
6. Kirishima Shrine
Situated at the foot of Mount Kirishima, Kirishima Jingu is a historic shrine closely linked to the Tenson Kōrin myth (the descent of gods to Earth).
It is believed to have been founded in the 6th century and has long been revered by the Japanese people.
Surrounded by majestic nature, the vivid red shrine is designated a national treasure. Within its grounds, visitors can find an 800-year-old sacred tree, mystical stones, and the legendary “Seven Wonders of Kirishima.”
It is said to bring good fortune in relationships, protect families, and grant blessings for abundant harvests.
📍 Address: 2608-5 Kirishima Taguchi, Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture
🕒 Opening Hours: Open anytime (Shrine office: 08:00 – 17:00)
💰 Admission: Free
7. Kirishima Open-Air Museum
Located in the Kirishima Mountains, this outdoor art museum showcases modern sculptures by both Japanese and international artists.
Walking through the lush forest while admiring unique art pieces that harmonize with the changing seasons offers an unforgettable experience.
📍 Address: 6340-220 Koba, Yusui Town, Aira District, Kagoshima Prefecture
🕒 Opening Hours: 09:00 – 17:00
💰 Admission: Adults ¥320, College & High School Students ¥220, Junior High & Elementary Students ¥160
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8. Chiran Tokko Heiwa Kaikan
This museum serves as a reminder of the horrors of war and the value of peace.
It displays letters, photographs, and personal belongings of around 4,000 kamikaze pilots, offering a heartbreaking insight into their inner struggles and longing for their families.
The museum plays a crucial role in preserving history and spreading the message of peace to future generations.
📍 Address: 17881 Chiran-cho Kori, Minamikyushu, Kagoshima Prefecture
🕒 Opening Hours: 09:00 – 17:00
💰 Admission: Adults ¥500, Children ¥300
9. Arahira Tenjin Shrine
Also known as Sugawara Shrine, this shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning.
Believed to have been established between 1532–1555, it has long been revered by locals, especially students praying for success in their studies.
During high tide, the path leading to the shrine is submerged, making it accessible only when the tide recedes.
📍 Address: 4014 Tenjin-cho, Kanoya City, Kagoshima Prefecture
🕒 Opening Hours: Open anytime
💰 Admission: Free
10. Jintoku Inari Shrine
Founded in 1676, this historic shrine is a branch of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Taisha.
It is believed to bring good fortune in agriculture, business success, and family harmony.
Recently, it gained popularity on social media thanks to its unique glass torii gate and striking red torii tunnel, making it a favorite photo spot for visitors.
In recent years, the shrine has become popular on social media thanks to its unique glass torii gates and rows of red torii that create a mystical atmosphere, making it a favorite tourist attractions in Kagoshima.
📍 Address: 1771-4 Shinei-cho, Kanoya City, Kagoshima Prefecture
🕒 Opening Hours: Open anytime (Shrine office: 09:00 – 17:00)
💰 Admission: Free
Those are 10 interesting tourist attractions in Kagoshima for you to visit while traveling in Japan.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning to explore more, Kagoshima will always welcome you with its diverse charms. So, what tourist attractions do you want to visit in Kagoshima?
