Naka-Satsuma

Located in the inland northwest of Kagoshima Prefecture, Naka‑Satsuma (Satsuma Town) spreads across 303.9 km² with about 18,400 residents. Facing the East China Sea, it serves as a gateway to Kagoshima, blending coastal panoramas with a rich inland heritage .

Natural Beauty & Outdoors

Scenic landscapes: rolling hills, emerald-green rivers (like Sendai River), plus lush Satoyama countryside and firefly habitats near Mt. Shibi .
Hot springs: enjoy unique baths like Myoken Onsen and other local hot spring sites.
Cherry blossoms: Hanami spots such as Yoshino Park offer views of 234 m hilltop vistas with sakura and Sakurajima in the distance.

Culture & Experiences

Pottery (Satsuma-yaki): Originating in nearby Miyama, with clay from this region and Korean potter influence. Local kilns offer workshops & sales of white, black, and porcelain-style ware.
Traditional crafts: ash painting (using Sakurajima volcanic ash), bamboo crafts, paper-cutting, even making artisanal ball‑pens from Oshima pongee.
Dolphin watching: Boat tours in Kinko Bay spot local dolphins against Sakurajima’s backdrop.
Herb & wild edible workshops: Learn about local medicinal plants and their uses .

Attractions & Landmarks

Yunohira Observatory at Mars Tsunuki Distillery: Offers scenic views and insight into Kagoshima’s whisky heritage.
Terukuni Shrine and Sengan‑en Garden: Part of broader Kagoshima sightseeing, easily accessible from Naka‑Satsuma.
Sogi Falls Park: A spiritual retreat surrounded by verdant nature.

Local Flavors

Kagoshima Kurobuta pork: Enjoy shabu‑shabu, tonkatsu, kakuni, and more at local farm-to-table venues.
Fresh seafood: Coastal location ensures an abundance of fish and kampachi from Kinko Bay.

Convenient Access

It’s centrally positioned on routes leading into Kagoshima City, with easy access by regional roads and JR/local rail lines. The City View bus in Kagoshima also connects to local attractions.