Amami Oshima

Amami Ōshima, the largest in the Amami archipelago, lies about 380 km south of Kagoshima City and is part of Kagoshima Prefecture, despite being geographically closer to Okinawa. With an area of 712 km² and a population of around 73,000, the island is mostly covered in lush subtropical forest and coastline.

In July 2021, Amami Ōshima was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site for its magnificent biodiversity—including the second-largest mangrove forest in Japan and endemic species like the Amami rabbit and Amami jay.

Natural Highlights

Beaches & Coral Reefs: With white sandy beaches and crystal-clear emerald waters—especially at Tomori Beach—Amami rivals Okinawa but is far less crowded, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Mangrove Forests: Home to Japan’s second-largest virgin mangrove forest, visitors can canoe or kayak through its serene waterways, guided by experts.

Hiking Trails: Trails like Cape Miyakozaki offer easy hikes with scenic views of subtropical bamboo grasslands and a chance to spot unique wildlife, such as the Amami rabbit.

Culture & History

Oshima Tsumugi: A traditional mud-dyed silk textile made by hand—a craft over 1,300 years old and recognized as one of the world’s top textiles.
Folk Culture: The island preserves endemic traditions such as shima-uta (folk songs) and hachigatsu odori (August dances).
World Heritage Center: Offers immersive exhibits and a model forest to educate visitors on conservation efforts and local species.

Local Flavors

Keihan (Chicken Rice Soup): A flavorful local staple with chicken, rice, mushrooms, egg, and seaweed, topped with savory chicken broth .
Kokuto Shochu & Brown Sugar: Unique brown‑sugar-based shōchū and kokutō (dark sugar) are local specialties praised for their rich flavor and health benefits.

Activities & Logistics

Outdoor Experiences: Snorkeling, diving, mangrove kayaking, night wildlife safaris, and forest hikes offer a variety of ways to enjoy the island.
Access: Direct flights from Tokyo (~2 h 10 m), Osaka (~1 h 30 m), and Kagoshima (~50 m), or an 11‑hour ferry from Kagoshima .
Getting Around: Public buses operate, but renting a car or moped is recommended to explore remote beaches and forests freely .

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2025年6月12日

Nansatsu

Nansatsu—literally “Southern Satsuma”—covers four municipalities along the southern Satsuma Peninsula: Makurazaki, Ibusuki, Minamisatsuma, and Minamikyushu. It’s a region blessed with warm climate, rias coastlines, sand dunes, tea plantations, historic towns, and rich culture.

Natural Highlights

Fukiage-hama Beach & Sand & Flower Festa: One of Japan’s top three sand dunes. Every May, around 100 monumental sand sculptures are displayed in a spectacular international sand-art festival. The adjacent 23.9 km Fukiage Cycling Road links Hioki to Minamisatsuma and offers breathtaking seascapes—especially at sunset.

Rias Coastline & Bonotsu Port: Carved into the southwest tip, the ria shoreline features hidden bays, cliffs, and historic Bonotsu Port—an ancient trading hub where Chinese monk Ganjin landed, shaping early Japanese Buddhism.

Mount Ōno (大野岳): A 466 m volcanic peak with hiking trails, spiral-access road, observatory view overlooking Ikeda Lake, Kaimon-dake, and the Nansatsu plateau. It hosts a natural park and spring marathon.

Tea Plantations: The fertile Nansatsu Plateau is one of Kagoshima’s premier green tea regions. Its first-flush “shincha” tea is world-renowned and enriched by unique cultivars like Yutakamidori and Saemidori.

Cultural & Historical Attractions

Samurai Heritage Trail: The Nansatsu cycling route passes through Minamisatsuma, Hioki, Kagoshima, Ibusuki, and Makurazaki, weaving through former samurai residences, Satsuma-yaki pottery kilns, shochu breweries, and dried-bonito factories.
Chiran Samurai Residences & Peace Museum: Near Kagoshima Airport, Chiran preserves Edo-era samurai gardens and homes, plus a poignant WWII kamikaze memorial .
Bonotsu Port & Ganjin Legacy: Bonotsu served ancient trade and spiritual exchange. The Ganjin Wajo Memorial marks its significance as a religious gateway .
Bonotsu Seahorse House & Kamafuta Shrine: Unique exhibits like seahorse aquaculture and fun rituals—like balancing pot lids at Kamafuta Shrine—add local charm .

Local Delicacies

Bonito (Katsuo): Makurazaki is Japan’s top dried-bonito producer, with katsuo donburi earning regional culinary fame. Ibusuki is known for rich karebushi ramen.
Shrimp and seafood: Minamisatsuma’s sweet takaebi shrimp and varied fresh catch like shirasu are local highlights .
Green tea & sweets: From tea-infused confections in Chiran and Hioki to craft tea experiences, visit local inns to blend your own tea.
Imo shochu: Premium potato liquor with origins in the region—visit Meiji-era breweries in Makurazaki for tours and tastings.

Activities & Itinerary

Cycling Route

Starting at Cycling Terminal “Ring‑Ring”, loop through Hioki → Kagoshima City → Ibusuki → Minamikyushu → Makurazaki → Minamisatsuma (223 km, 4 200 m elevation gain) en.wikipedia.org+7kagoshima-kankou.com+7kagoshima-kankou.com+7.

Recommended 3-Day Trip

Day 1: Arrive in Ibusuki → enjoy suna-mushi hot sand baths → cycle coastal road → sunset at Fukiage-hama.
Day 2: Visit Chiran samurai homes → tea tasting experience → visit Mount Ōno for hiking.
Day 3: Head to Makurazaki for bonito-themed lunch → tour Imo shochu brewery and Bonotsu Port → explore Bonotsu Seahorse House & Kamafuta Shrine.

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2025年6月12日

Osumi

Ōsumi

Tucked away in the southeastern corner of Kyushu, the Ōsumi Peninsula (大隅半島, Ōsumi-hantō) is one of Japan’s best-kept travel secrets. Forming the eastern half of Kagoshima Prefecture, this remote and scenic region offers a rare blend of dramatic coastlines, volcanic landscapes, sacred shrines, peaceful rural life, and rich history. While most tourists flock to nearby Yakushima or Sakurajima, those who venture into Ōsumi are rewarded with untouched nature, spiritual solitude, and authentic cultural experiences.

Geographical Significance

Ōsumi stretches out like a rugged finger into the Pacific Ocean, facing the Satsuma Peninsula across Kagoshima Bay. The peninsula is dominated by rolling hills, rivers, gorges, and hidden waterfalls. Its southern tip—Cape Sata (佐多岬)—is famously known as the southernmost point of mainland Japan, marked by a 19th-century lighthouse perched on cliffs overlooking a vast, wild sea.

This location is symbolic: Cape Sata, along with Cape Sōya in Hokkaido (northernmost point), represents the full north-south axis of Japan’s main islands. For adventurers, this journey is a pilgrimage.

Natural Wonders

Ogawa Falls (雄川の滝): A 46-meter-high cascade with crystal-clear emerald waters, nestled deep in the forest of Kanoya. A gentle walking path (1.2km) leads visitors to an observatory with a breathtaking view. It gained national fame after appearing in the NHK Taiga drama “Segodon.”

Sarugajo Gorge (猿ヶ城渓谷): Ideal for canyoning, swimming, and riverside camping. The gorge is surrounded by giant boulders and lush forest, creating a perfect summer escape.

Mizonokuchi Cave (溝ノ口洞穴): A massive cave formed by ancient spring erosion, it stretches over 200 meters and exudes mystical energy. It has been used as a sacred site for centuries.

Arahira Tenjin Shrine (荒平天神): A picturesque shrine on a rocky outcrop, accessible only at low tide. Popular among students praying for academic success.

Cape Sata (佐多岬): Not only famous for its location, but also for its sheer cliffs, panoramic ocean views, and subtropical vegetation.

Kirishima Forests & Parks: Inland from the coast, you’ll find beautiful highland forests and viewpoint parks like Panorama Park Nishiharadai (西原台), offering stunning views over Kagoshima Bay.

Culture and History

Kanoya Air Base Museum (鹿屋航空基地史料館): A sobering and educational facility detailing Japan’s aviation history, including Kamikaze missions during WWII. The exhibits offer insight into the region’s military role and legacy.

Uchinoura Space Center (内之浦宇宙空間観測所): Operated by JAXA, Japan’s space agency, this center has launched satellites and the famed “Hayabusa” asteroid explorer. Visitors can learn about space missions and view the launch pads overlooking the Pacific.

Kanoya Rose Garden (かのやバラ園): With over 35,000 roses blooming in spring and autumn, this is the largest rose garden in Japan. There’s also a museum, cafe, and rose-themed products.

Local Festivals: Traditional summer festivals, firework displays, and shrine rituals provide a glimpse into local life and customs.

Food and Local Specialties

Ōsumi is known for its agricultural bounty:

Black pork (Kurobuta): Raised in the region, it’s tender and flavorful, often served as tonkatsu or shabu-shabu.
Sweet potatoes: Grown in volcanic soil, they’re rich and sweet, used in tempura, desserts, and local shochu.
Fresh seafood: Caught off the Pacific coast—try sashimi, grilled sazae (turban shells), or local izakaya fare.
Green tea: Grown in the hills near Kanoya and Kimotsuki.

How to Get There & Suggested Itinerary

Access: From Kagoshima City, travelers can either drive around the bay or take a ferry from Yamagawa Port to Nejime Port on Ōsumi’s west coast. Renting a car is highly recommended to explore this large, rural area.
Day 1: Arrive via ferry, visit Arahira Shrine and drive south to Ogawa Falls.
Day 2: Visit Sarugajo Gorge, Mizonokuchi Cave, and continue to Cape Sata.
Day 3: Drive north through forests to Kanoya Rose Garden and Air Base Museum. Optional detour to Uchinoura Space Center.
Overnight options: Guesthouses, onsen ryokan, and rural stays like Iko Terrace in Sakurajima or nearby coastal villages.

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2025年6月12日

Kagoshima City

Located at Kyushu’s southwestern tip, Kagoshima (population ~600,000) spreads along Kinko Bay with the iconic active volcano Sakurajima rising directly across the water—earning its nickname “Naples of the East” for its dramatic scenery, warm climate, and vibrant port life.

Must-See Attractions

Sakurajima Volcano & Ferry
A 15-minute ferry from Kagoshima Port delivers you to Sakurajima, an active volcano-connected island inhabited by ≈5,000 people. Enjoy hot springs, local produce (like Sakurajima daikon), panoramic views, and geological exploration.

Sengan‑en Garden & Shuseikan
The 17th-century Sengan-en villa and its scenic gardens, overlooking the bay, were built by the Shimazu lords and designed for both aesthetics and status. Nearby is the Shuseikan, Japan’s first Western-style industrial complex—now a UNESCO World Heritage testament to the Meiji Industrial Revolution.

Reimeikan & Kagoshima Castle Ruins
Explore the Reimeikan museum on the former Kagoshima Castle grounds. The reconstructed Ōtemon gate anchors a National Historic Site with Edo-period heritage.

Mt. Shiroyama Observatory
A modest 107 m hill offers sweeping views of Kagoshima city and Sakurajima—especially magical at night when the city sparkles and the volcano glows.

Io World Aquarium
This large aquarium highlights marine life of Kagoshima Bay and beyond, featuring a whale shark exhibit, dolphin shows, and environmental “Sea of Silence” display.

Amu Plaza & Amuran Ferris Wheel
Adjacent to Kagoshima-Chūō Station, Amu Plaza combines shopping and dining. The 60 m-high Amuran Ferris wheel rides offer best-in-city views of the bay and volcano—especially enchanting at night.

Tenmonkan Arcade & Local Cuisine
A bustling downtown hub for ramen, kurobuta (black pork), shirokuma shaved ice, and lively nightlife. A real taste of Kagoshima’s local soul.

Nagashima Museum & Kagoshima City Museum of Art
Set on a promontory with lava-bay views, Nagashima Museum houses Western and Japanese art, including Rodin and Satsuma ware. The city museum near Shiroyama Castle grounds covers both local and Western masters like Monet and Cézanne.

Culture, Cuisine & Travel Tips

Local Delights: Try Kurobuta shabu‑shabu, imo-jōchū (sweet potato spirit), and shirokuma dessert.
Transport Pass: The CUTE pass gives unlimited access to trams, buses, and the city-view tour bus—perfect for a day in and around Sakurajima.
Seasonal Best: Mild winters, hot summers—autumn (~Oct–Nov) brings colorful foliage and cooler weather. Connections via flights and Shinkansen make Kagoshima highly accessible.

One-Day Itinerary

Morning: Ferry ride to Sakurajima → enjoy hot springs and trails, return via ferry.
Late Morning: Visit Sengan-en and Shuseikan Historical Complex.
Afternoon: Explore Reimeikan and castle ruins → stroll through Tenmonkan for lunch.
Evening: Ride Amuran Ferris wheel → soak views from Shiroyama Observatory → sample local eats and nightlife.

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2025年6月11日

Ibusuki

Ibusuki (population ~37,600) is situated at the southern tip of Kyushu in Kagoshima Prefecture. It’s famed for its rare natural sunamushi (sand baths), which utilize geothermally heated volcanic sand—and it’s the only place in the world where this experience is fully natural.

The Iconic Steam Sand Baths

What it is: After wearing a cotton yukata, you lie in a shallow pit on the beach, and staff bury you up to your neck in steaming sand heated by underground hot springs (about 50–55 °C).

Health benefits: The warmth and gentle weight improve circulation, detoxify the body, relax muscles, and beautify the skin—claims suggest it’s 3–4× more effective than a regular hot spring bath.

Experience flow: Enjoy ~10 minutes buried while listening to the waves, followed by rinsing off and soaking in conventional hot springs.

Popular Facilities

Sand Bath Hall SARAKU – largest facility, open 8:30–20:30, adult fee ~¥1,500.

Yamakawa Sayuri Natural Sand Bath – near Mount Kaimon; baths heated by 102 °C geothermal source, helps relieve neuralgia, rheumatism, asthma, and more.

Beyond Sand Baths

Traditional Onsen: Coastal open-air onsens with sodium-chloride-rich water, ideal for joint pain and rheumatism relief

Satsuma Denshokan Museum: Exhibits Satsuma-kisch pottery and local history.

Lake Ikeda & Mount Kaimon: Lake Ikeda is Kyushu’s largest crater lake (home to mythical Issie), and Mount Kaimon, sometimes called “Snoopy Mountain,” is a scenic active volcano.

Tōsenkyō Gorge: Known for “nagashi sōmen” flowing noodles and Ryūgū Shrine—brimming with Urashima Taro folklore.

Hirasaki Shrine: Historic Shinto shrine, one of the province’s ichinomiya (first-ranking shrines).

Iwasaki Art Museum: Designed by Fumihiko Maki, showcasing Satsuma ware and Western-style art.

Archaeological Park: Ibusuki Hashimuregawa site reveals Jōmon–Yayoi remains; includes museum and reconstructed pit dwellings.

Getting There

By train: JR Ibusuki-Makurazaki Line from Kagoshima-Chūō (~50 km) to Ibusuki Station.
By bus/train: From Kagoshima Airport, bus to Kagoshima-Chūō (~40 min), then train to Ibusuki (~1 hr)

Suggested One-Day Itinerary

Morning: Arrive and enjoy the sunamushi sand bath.
Late morning: Rinse off and soak in a seaside onsen.
Afternoon: Visit Satsuma Denshokan Museum, then head to Lake Ikeda and/or Mount Kaimon.
Evening: Try nagashi sōmen at Tōsenkyō Gorge, then visit Hirasaki Shrine before a final soak.

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2025年6月11日

Chiran

CHIRAN

Chiran, Kagoshima: Where Samurai Legacy Meets Wartime Reflection

Nestled in the southern tip of Kyushu on the Satsuma Peninsula, Chiran is a town rich in history and cultural depth. Once an independent municipality, it merged into Minamikyūshū City in 2007, yet retains its own unique character and charm.

Samurai Heritage: The “Little Kyoto of Satsuma”

Chiran Samurai District
Stroll along a 700 m stone-lined street once home to over 500 samurai residences from the Edo period. These fortified homes feature strategic alleyways and hedged gardens—designed for both beauty and defense
The preservation society maintains seven exquisite gardens, including five karesansui (dry landscape) gardens, a pond garden, and a trimmed shrub garden, many of which were designed by Kyoto gardeners during the 17th–18th centuries

Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots

Built in 1975 and expanded in 1985, the museum stands on the former WWII airbase. It displays actual aircraft (Ki‑43, Ki‑61, Ki‑84, Mitsubishi Zero) and artifacts—personal letters, poems, and biographies of 1,036 pilots—making it both poignant and deeply reflective.

The site also includes the Tōkkō Kannon statue, which enshrines the names of the fallen pilots—encapsulating the town’s message of remembrance and peace

A Blend of Nature, Tea, and Spiritual Sites

Chiran Tea
Renowned for its award-winning green tea, Chiran cultivates its signature product in terraced fields nourished by the mild climate and rich volcanic soils of nearby Sakurajima.

Magaibutsu Buddhist Cliff Carvings & Castle Ruins
Witness ancient Buddhist images carved into cliffs and explore the hilltop ruins of Chiran Castle, a designated National Historic Site from the Kamakura-Sengoku period.

Top Spots Around Town

Kamafuta Shrine – Known for a quirky ritual involving balanced pot-lids; also offers coastal views

Bandokorobana Nature Park & Sebira Park – Scenic viewpoints ideal for spotting Mt. Kaimondake and nearby islands

Shimizu Magaibutsu – A massive 400 m-long rock face carved with over 200 Buddhist images

When to Visit & Getting There

Opening Hours: Samurai gardens and Peace Museum both operate 9 AM–5 PM year‑round; adult entry to gardens ~¥500.

Access:

Bus from Kagoshima Chūō Station or Yamagataya in ~1h 20m.
Train to Hirakawa Station (Ibusuki‑Makurazaki Line) + bus/taxi.
Car rental is also a good option.

Suggested Itinerary

Morning: Wander the Samurai District and tour the seven signature gardens.
Afternoon: Visit the Peace Museum, take in photographs and letters that humanize wartime history.
Late afternoon/evening: Savor tea at a local plantation, hike to coastal parks, or visit shrines and Buddhist carvings under a setting sun.

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2025年6月11日

Hokusatsu

Hokusatsu, literally “Northern Satsuma”, is a captivating region located in the northwestern part of Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. Nestled between lush mountains and the East China Sea, this area is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, hot springs, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a quiet escape from the city, Hokusatsu offers something truly special.

Nature & Scenic Spots

Sogi Falls

Known as the “Niagara of the East,” this magnificent waterfall stretches over 210 meters wide and drops 12 meters. It’s a perfect spot for photos, picnics, or simply soaking in the power of nature.

Sunset by the Sea

Hokusatsu’s west coast boasts white sandy beaches and panoramic views of the East China Sea, ideal for catching stunning sunsets.

Forests, Lakes & Valleys

With serene spots like Tsuruta Dam Lake, bamboo forests, and untouched valleys, the region is ideal for forest bathing and nature walks.

Outdoor Activities & Cycling Routes

The Hokusatsu Cycling Route (Approx. 183.5 km)

Start from Sendai Station and travel through scenic towns like Akune, Nagashima, and Izumi. The route features ocean views, quaint fishing villages, and plenty of local eateries along the way.

Hokusatsu Wide-Area Park

A Family-Friendly Nature Park

This extensive park is a mix of cherry blossoms, flower gardens, bamboo groves, playgrounds, and even a firefly-viewing area in May.

Facilities & Experiences

From traditional craft workshops and outdoor tea ceremonies to adventure playgrounds and observation decks—it’s a great place for both kids and adults.

Camping & Hot Springs

Stay overnight in cozy bungalows or camp under the stars. The park includes public baths, outdoor hot springs, and foot baths for a complete relaxation experience.

Cultural Heritage & Historical Treasures

Izumi’s Crane Migration Site

Each winter, over 10,000 cranes fly from Russia to roost here. Observation centers and museums offer insights into their habits and history.

Samurai Residences in Izumi

Explore beautifully preserved Edo-period samurai houses, where you can also try on traditional kimono or participate in tea ceremonies.

Temples & Shrines

Don’t miss Kanno-ji Temple (founded in 1194) or the massive bell at Hakozaki Hachiman Shrine—both steeped in history and spiritual significance.

Traditional Armor Workshops

Some local artisans create armor and props used in Japanese films and dramas. You can tour these workshops and even try on a piece of samurai history.

Healing Hot Springs

Famous Onsen Villages

Relax in traditional hot springs such as Ichihono Onsen (with a 400-year-old legacy) or Shibi Onsen, known for its pure and healing waters.

Local Cuisine & Spirits

Seafood, Beef & Produce

With its diverse geography—sea, mountains, and rivers—Hokusatsu is a paradise for fresh fish, Kagoshima Wagyu, and seasonal produce.

Birthplace of Shochu

The area is also known for its role in the birth of Imo Shochu, a traditional Japanese spirit made from sweet potatoes. Local breweries offer tastings and tours.

Access & Accommodation

Access

Easily reachable by train or bus from Kagoshima-Chuo Station. Major towns like Sendai, Izumi, and Satsuma are well-connected.

Where to Stay

Options range from campgrounds inside the park to local inns and traditional ryokan, often with private hot springs.

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2025年6月10日

Category: 17 islands

Amami Oshima

Natural Highlights

Culture & History

Local Flavors

Activities & Logistics

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Nansatsu

Natural Highlights

Cultural & Historical Attractions

Local Delicacies

Activities & Itinerary

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Ōsumi

Geographical Significance

Natural Wonders

Culture and History

Food and Local Specialties

How to Get There & Suggested Itinerary

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Kagoshima City

Must-See Attractions

Culture, Cuisine & Travel Tips

One-Day Itinerary

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Ibusuki

The Iconic Steam Sand Baths

Popular Facilities

Beyond Sand Baths

Getting There

Suggested One-Day Itinerary

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CHIRAN

Samurai Heritage: The “Little Kyoto of Satsuma”

Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots

A Blend of Nature, Tea, and Spiritual Sites

Top Spots Around Town

When to Visit & Getting There

Suggested Itinerary

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Hokusatsu

Nature & Scenic Spots

Sogi Falls

Sunset by the Sea

Forests, Lakes & Valleys

Outdoor Activities & Cycling Routes

The Hokusatsu Cycling Route (Approx. 183.5 km)

Hokusatsu Wide-Area Park

A Family-Friendly Nature Park

Facilities & Experiences

Camping & Hot Springs

Cultural Heritage & Historical Treasures

Izumi’s Crane Migration Site

Samurai Residences in Izumi

Temples & Shrines

Traditional Armor Workshops

Healing Hot Springs

Famous Onsen Villages

Local Cuisine & Spirits

Seafood, Beef & Produce

Birthplace of Shochu

Access & Accommodation

Access

Where to Stay

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