What to know
Kagoshima (鹿児島) is the southernmost major city on Kyushu and the capital of Kagoshima Prefecture. Often compared to its Italian sister city Naples, Kagoshima shares a similarly mild climate, palm-lined streets, lively locals, and the ever-present Mount Sakurajima—its own Vesuvius.
The city boasts a rich history as the former stronghold of the Shimazu clan, one of Japan's most powerful feudal families, who played a key role in the Meiji Restoration. Beyond its own attractions, Kagoshima serves as a perfect base for day trips to the Kirishima Mountains and Satsuma Peninsula, and as a gateway to southern islands like Yakushima and Amami Oshima.
Activities and attractions
SakurajimaActive volcano in the bay off Kagoshima
Senganen GardenJapanese-style landscape garden
Kagoshima AquariumInteresting aquarium in the Kagoshima Port area
Shiroyama ParkHilltop park with a panoramic view over the city
Reimeikan MuseumLarge museum about local history and culture
YakushimaSubtropical island with ancient cedar forest
KirishimaNational Park with volcanic mountain range
Satsuma PeninsulaRural peninsula with hot springs in southern Kyushu