Kagoshima Japan 3 Day Itinerary

Kagoshima 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Kagoshima City

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day at Tenmonkan, a historic shopping street lined with traditional shops and restaurants. Try some local snacks and drinks to get energized for the day!
  • 10:30 AM: Visit Kagoshima City Museum of Art to learn about the city’s history, art, and culture.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Take a short walk to Sengan-en Garden, a beautiful Japanese garden with a stunning view of Kagoshima Bay.
  • 2:30 PM: Head to Kagoshima Central Market for a fresh seafood lunch at one of the many restaurants.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Yakiniku Jumbo Han no Daidokoro, a popular yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurant.
  • 8:00 PM: Take a stroll around Kagoshima Port, where you can enjoy the sunset and sea views.

Accommodation

  • Stay at Hotel Gasthof or similar, a comfortable hotel with easy access to Kagoshima Station.

Day 2: Sakurajima Island and Kagoshima Bay

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Take a ferry from Kagoshima Port to Sakurajima Island, an active volcano with stunning views of the city.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the Sakurajima Visitor Center to learn about the island’s geology and history.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the island, such as Sakurajima Kurobuta, which serves delicious black pork dishes.
  • 2:30 PM: Take a bus or taxi to ** Yunohira Lookout Point** for breathtaking views of Kagoshima Bay.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Return to Kagoshima City and enjoy dinner at Kagoshima Kurobuta Yokocho, a popular restaurant serving black pork dishes.
  • 8:00 PM: Explore the lively Tenmonkan Night Market for some evening shopping and snacks.

Day 3: Chiran and Ibusuki

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Take a train to Chiran Station (about 30 minutes) and visit Chiran Samurai District, a well-preserved samurai town.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the beautiful Chiran Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Head to Ibusuki Station (about 20 minutes by train) and visit Ibusuki Onsen, a hot spring resort with stunning ocean views.
  • 3:30 PM: Enjoy some relaxation time at the onsen, or explore the nearby Ibusuki Beach.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Return to Kagoshima City and enjoy a farewell dinner at Kagoshima Kagomma, a popular restaurant serving local specialties.
  • 8:00 PM: End your trip with some souvenir shopping at Tenmonkan or around Kagoshima Station.

Things to Know

  • Kagoshima has a subtropical climate, so be prepared for warm weather and occasional rain showers.
  • Many restaurants in Kagoshima serve kurobuta (black pork), which is a local specialty.
  • Sakurajima Island may have restricted access due to volcanic activity; check the latest information before visiting.

Transportation

  • Kagoshima has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trains. You can also take taxis or ride-hailing services.
  • Renting a car is not recommended, as parking spaces are limited and traffic in the city can be challenging.

Tips

  • Learn some basic Japanese phrases to communicate with locals.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak travel seasons (e.g., cherry blossom season) for smaller crowds and lower prices.
  • Don’t forget to try some of Kagoshima’s local specialties, such as shochu (a type of spirit), black pork, and fresh seafood!

Other Things of Interest

  • Kagoshima Botanical Garden: A beautiful garden featuring various plant species from around the world.
  • Mount Sakurajima Observation Deck: For a panoramic view of Kagoshima Bay and the city.
  • Kagoshima Museum of Natural History: To learn about the region’s natural history, including its unique volcanic features.