A Relax 3 day in Kagoshima Itinerary, Japan
Kagoshima is located in Kyushu, Southern Japan. Kyushu is a fantastic region to visit when you’re travelling in Japan. I spent a little less than a month there, and I know I will be back. However, today, we are focusing solely on Kagoshima.
Here is my 3 day in Kagoshima itinerary, which includes all the tips you need to know to plan a perfect getaway in this relaxed area.
This Kagoshima 3 day Itinerary is more on the chill side, allowing more time to soak in the moment and enjoy. If you wish to see more, you could add a few extra activities, but it’s a great starting point for a 3-day itinerary if you don’t know yet what you want to do.
Read more: A Relax 3 day in Kagoshima Itinerary, JapanIf you don’t have three days to spare, I also have a one-day Kagoshima itinerary for you to check out!
Valuable Tips To Visit Kagoshima
Different transportation passes and discounts are available in Kagoshima that you can use to save money.
Another thing to consider if you’re travelling through Kyushu is the JR Kyushu Pass. I planned to use it until I realised it isn’t available for residents of Japan, even if you hold a foreign passport. Some passes are, and some aren’t; it’s tricky.
- There are two types of passes you can use for transportation in Kagoshima: you should either get the “Kagoshima City Tram / Bus / City View Bus 1 or 2-Day Pass” or the “CUTE one or two-day pass”. You get more out of the CUTE pass, as it can also be used in Sakurajima.
- You cannot use your IC card on the tram; however, you can tap your Visa Card or get yourself a Rapica IC Card specifically for the tram; you have to buy it topped up with 3000y, which is not worth it if you’re only staying there for 3 days.
- Also, if you’re travelling around Kyushu, you should consider buying the JR Kyushu to save money on the train and the regional pass for the area. There are different options and durations. You can check all the details of the JR Kyushu Rail Pass here.
Kagoshima in 3-day itinerary overview:
Day 1 in Kagoshima: Exploring the city
- Shiroyama Park & Observatory
- Reimeikan – Kagoshima Museum
- Terukuni Shrine
- Waterpark front walk
- Sengan En Park
- Shoko Shuseikan Museum
- Amu Plaza Kagoshima
Day 2 in Kagoshima: Visiting Sakurajima
- Ferry to Sakurajima
- Tsukiyomi Shrine
- Rent a bike – 1h tour
- Karasujima Observatory
- “Portrait of a Shout” Monument
- Akamizu Observatory Square
- Yunohira Observation Deck
- Sakurajima Visitor Center – Free exhibit
- Relax footbath while admiring the volcano
- Back to Kagoshima, stroll around the Tenmonkan Area in the evening.
Day 3 in Kagoshima: Day Trip to Ibusuki via the Ibusuki No Tamatebako (Ibutama)
- Take the Scenic Ibusuki no Tamatebako train to Ibusuki
- Sandbath
- Check out the Eevee manholes
- Ibusuki Park – Tara Cape
- Chiringashima
- Ibusuki Shrine
- Bonus: Golden Torii at Ikeda Lake
A Relax 3 day in Kagoshima Itinerary, Japan
Day 1 in Kagoshima: Exploring the city
Shiroyama Park & Observatory
Shiroyama Park & Observatory was the start of my three-day Kagoshima Itinerary. You can either walk there from Kagoshima Chuo station or take the bus. I walked to get my steps in, but many stairs exist!
Nestled atop a scenic hill, offers a panoramic perspective of the city’s urban landscape and natural beauty. It’s nice on a clear day, which I wasn’t so lucky to have; it was visible but quite grey when I visited.
As one of Kagoshima’s most iconic landmarks, the park provides a serene retreat from the bustle of city life. Winding paths, lush greenery, and tranquil gardens invite leisurely strolls and peaceful moments of reflection (and warning for vipers).
At the observatory, visitors can ascend to breathtaking heights and enjoy sweeping views of Kagoshima Bay, the surrounding mountains, and the iconic silhouette of Sakurajima volcano.
Whether admiring the sunset, picnicking amidst the cherry blossoms, or simply taking in the expansive vistas, Shiroyama Park & Observatory offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Kagoshima’s scenic splendour.
Reimeikan – Kagoshima Museum & Former Castle
Reimeikan, Kagoshima’s premier museum, journeys through the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. And it’s very English-friendly, so don’t worry if you don’t speak Japanese. Kagoshima Museum has been, so far, one of my favourite museums I have visited in Japan. It has a very interesting collection and all the explanations necessary in English, so it’d be a shame to miss out!
Housed within an architecturally striking building, this three-story museum showcases diverse exhibits, artefacts, and interactive displays illuminating Kagoshima’s past, from ancient to modern times.
And if you’re collecting stamps like me, you can also get stamps!
Terukuni Shrine
Nestled within Kagoshima’s cultural heart, Terukuni Shrine is a timeless testament to the city’s spiritual and historical significance.
Dedicated to the revered Shimazu clan, this sacred sanctuary exudes tranquillity and reverence. The shrine’s majestic Torii gate welcomes visitors and leads to a serene landscape of traditional architecture, sacred ponds, and towering trees.
Steeped in centuries of tradition, Terukuni Shrine offers a glimpse into Kagoshima’s feudal past and the enduring legacy of its noble heritage. Whether seeking blessings for prosperity or simply admiring the beauty of its surroundings, a visit to Terukuni Shrine promises a serene and spiritually enriching experience.
Waterpark front walk
The Waterfront Park Walk in Kagoshima City offers a refreshing escape from the urban landscape. It provides residents and visitors with a scenic retreat along the picturesque waterfront.
Stretching along the bay, this inviting promenade features lush green spaces, meandering paths, and panoramic views of Kagoshima Bay and the surrounding mountains. Stroll leisurely along the water’s edge, enjoy picnics in the shade of swaying palm trees, or relax and enjoy the serene ambience.
With its refreshing sea breeze, stunning vistas, and tranquil atmosphere, the Waterfront Park Walk offers a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, inviting all to unwind and rejuvenate in Kagoshima’s natural beauty.
Sengan En Park & Shoko Shuseikan Museum
Sengan En Park and Shoko Shuseikan Museum offer a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage in Kagoshima. Sengan En, a meticulously landscaped Japanese garden, enchants visitors with its serene ponds, lush vegetation, and stunning views of Sakurajima volcano.
Adjacent to the park, the Shoko Shuseikan Museum provides insight into Kagoshima’s industrial history, showcasing the innovations of the Shimazu clan.
Here are some of the main points of interest in the park:
– Shimadzu Satsuma Kiriko Glassworks
– Cat Shrine
– Shoko Shuseokan Museum
– Site of Reverberatory Furnace
– The House
– Konan Bamboo Groves
– Tea Ceremony Experience
Tickets price:
Garden & Museum: 1000 yen/adult
Garden, Museum & House: 1600 yen/adult
Amu Plaza Kagoshima
Amu Plaza Kagoshima is a vibrant shopping and dining hub close to Kagoshima Chuo.
This modern shopping complex offers diverse shops, from fashion boutiques to electronics stores, catering to every taste and preference.
Amu Plaza Kagoshima provides a one-stop destination for leisure, relaxation, and retail therapy, making it a beloved landmark for residents and tourists alike in Kagoshima. If you like visiting shopping malls and supermarkets, it is a fun part of travelling to a new place, so it’s fun to add to your bucket list and a good place to find souvenirs as well!
Day 2 in Kagoshima: Visiting Sakurajima
Day 2 of this Kagoshima Itinerary is fully dedicated to exploring Sakurajima, the island located 10 minutes of a 10-minute ferry ride, where you can find one of Japan’s most active volcanoes! A must-visit when you’re exploring Kagoshima.
How to get to Sakurajima from Kagoshima?
Accessing Sakurajima is very easy from Kagoshima, and you can also load cars and bikes onto the ferry.
Bonus: if you’re collecting stamps while travelling around Japan, like me, get your stamp from the ferry. There are two different ferries, which means two stamps!
You can check timetables and info about ferries here.
Tsukiyomi Shrine
The first stop on this day trip to Kagoshima is the Tsukiyomi Shrine, a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal. This cute temple offers a view over the bay. You can also get a goshuin to add to your collection!
Tsukiyomi Shrine, nestled amidst the tranquil landscapes of Kagoshima, offers a serene sanctuary for spiritual reflection and cultural exploration. Dedicated to Tsukiyomi-no-Mikoto, the Shinto deity of the moon, this sacred site exudes an aura of tranquillity and reverence.
It’s quite a relatively small place so it’s pretty quick to visit and admire.
Rent A Bike – 1h Tour Of Sakurajima.
After checking the temple, I think it’s a good time to rent a bike to see more of Sakurajima differently.
Initially, I had only seen that you could rent a bike at the Sakurajima Visitor Center, where I read you could rent a bike to tour the island (36km). However, when I went there (in skirt ahah), they advised me to go near the ferry terminal to rent a bike for an hour at a much cheaper rate (500 yen for an hour).
Once your bike and map are ready, you can check a few checkpoints on the list. I loved biking around; I feel like I took my time, but if you want to take a bit more time, then booking for 2 hours might be better.
Here are all the checkpoints to check during your bike ride highlighted on the map above provided by the rental place:
- Follow Super Magma Road to Karasujima Observatory
- Raccoon Rock
- “Portrait of a Shout”
- Akamizu View Square
- Saigo Rock
- Bike along the Lava Nagisa Esplanade
- Lava Nagisa Park
- Sakurajima Rainbow Beach
- Back at the rental place
Karasujima Observatory
This observatory offers panoramic vistas of Kagoshima Bay and the volcanic landscapes below, providing a breathtaking backdrop to take a short break and admire the view. And you can also make friends with the kitties that chill there. It’s not the highest viewpoint of the island, but it’s worth checking out!
On the way to the next spot, you can also see the “Racoon Rock” I almost missed at first. From the photo I took and shared on my Instagram stories, no one thought it looked like a racoon! But I think you can totally see it! It’s nothing major, but it’s still fun to spot during your bike journey.
“Portrait of a Shout” Monument
This striking artwork, set against the backdrop of the island’s volcanic landscapes, offers a poignant reflection on the region’s tumultuous history and resilience.
I tried not to look at the photos on my map to get a “surprise” of everything I was meant to check on my bike ride, and I was quite surprised; it’s quite big and, in a way, not what I would expect to find on this type of island. Created by local artist Takao Tanihata, the sculpture embodies the spirit of Kagoshima, inviting visitors to contemplate the island’s enduring spirit amidst the ever-changing forces of nature.
Akamizu Observatory Square
Another observatory is next to the “Portrait of a Shout” monument. This was my favourite photo spot!
Amidst the lush greenery of Sakurajima, this serene spot offers stunning panoramic views of the island’s volcanic landscapes and Kagoshima Bay. Park your bike, unwind, and soak in the natural splendour. Sit on a bench while enjoying the gentle sea breeze and the captivating sight of Sakurajima’s majestic silhouette, and everyone queues to catch the next bus!
This was one of the highlights of having a bike to check this part of the island. It offers a lot more freedom than being obliged to plan carefully around the bus timetable, as the bus doesn’t run that often.
Yunohira Observation Deck
Once you’re done biking, it is time to access places that are inaccessible by bike via the Sakurajima Bus.
If you don’t have a CUTE Pass, you can also consider getting a Sakurajima View Bus Pass for 500 yen for the day.
The Yunohira Observation Deck, situated atop the picturesque Yunohira Hill on Sakurajima Island, offers an unparalleled perspective of Kagoshima’s volcanic marvels.
From this vantage point, you can witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of Sakurajima’s volcanic activity, including billowing smoke plumes and occasional eruptions. The observation deck also provides panoramic views of Kagoshima Bay, creating a captivating backdrop for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. There is also a small souvenir shop for a short break to get food and drink.
If you travel solo like me, there is a stand for your camera/photo, so you can still take a picture of yourself!
With its natural beauty and geological wonder blend, the Yunohira Observation Deck is a testament to the dynamic forces shaping Kagoshima’s landscape.
Sakurajima Visitor Center – Free exhibit
The Sakurajima Visitor Center’s free exhibit offers an immersive journey into Sakurajima’s geological wonders and cultural heritage.
Visitors can explore interactive displays, informative exhibits (albeit quite small), and multimedia presentations illuminating the island’s volcanic history, eruptions, and ongoing scientific research.
Learn about volcanic activity’s impact on Kagoshima’s landscape and communities and the disaster preparedness and safety measures in place. It’s fun for visitors of all ages!
This is the perfect place for any questions; the staff is helpful and friendly! You can also buy souvenirs and volcanic rocks there.
Relax with a Footbath at Lava Nagisa Park.
Ah, this was my favourite part of my day trip to Sakurajima!
Indulge in a moment of relaxation amidst the natural splendour of Kagoshima at Lava Nagisa Park’s footbath. Situated along the scenic coastline of Sakurajima, this tranquil oasis invites visitors to soothe their tired feet in rejuvenating hot spring waters while soaking in panoramic views of Kagoshima Bay.
The footbath’s therapeutic properties, combined with the serene ambience of the park, offer a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of exploration or simply seeking a moment of tranquillity.
Back to Kagoshima, stroll around the Tenmonkan Area in the evening.
To finish this second day in Kagoshima, I spent my evening in Tenmonkan before calling it a day.
From traditional izakayas serving savoury delights to chic boutiques boasting modern (or not very modern) fashion, Tenmonkan offers a good essence of what Kagoshima nightlife, of course, it feels quite quiet compared to big cities like Tokyo or Osaka, but it’s still quite enjoyable, especially if you’re not big on nightlife.
It’s a good place to unwind, try local foods, browse for souvenirs, or immerse yourself in its lively ambience. It is the perfect place to spend a good evening as there are plenty of restaurants, shops, karaoke, and arcades there, and you need to check them out at least once during your trip!
Day 3 in Kagoshima: Day Trip to Ibusuki via the Ibusuki No Tamatebako (Ibutama)
Taking the Ibusuki no Tamatebako has been the highlight of my day trip to Ibusuki. Don’t get me wrong; Ibusuki is a beautiful, peaceful coastal town. But as a train enthusiast, I find this scenic train ride amazing, and I recommend it to everyone, train enthusiast or not!
Three Ibutama trains commute daily from Kagoshima Station to Ibusuki Station, so booking in advance is a must. I booked the day before but recommend booking as soon as possible.
Take the Scenic Ibusuki no Tamatebako train to Ibusuki
I opted to depart with the first train of the day at 9:56 (arriving at 10:47 at Ibusuki station). The next ones were at 11:56 and 13:56, which was too late for a day trip. Check the timetable here.
You can ride the train for a round trip if you wish to, I decided only to do the way in and take a regular train on the way back to save money.
However, if you have the JR Pass Kyushu, it costs less. However, remember that the last Ibutama leaves at 15h07, so depending on what you want to do and see in Ibusuki, it doesn’t leave you as much time as if you’re taking a regular train.
Relax with a Sandbath
The Ibusuki Sandbath is a unique therapeutic experience in which visitors are buried in naturally heated volcanic sand. This traditional practice, known as “Sunamushi Onsen,” promotes relaxation, improves circulation, and detoxifies the body.
The sand’s warmth and weight create a comforting sensation, and visitors can feel the benefits of the mineral-rich volcanic soil as they relax in the sand for around 10-15 minutes.
The Ibusuki Sandbath is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists seeking a rejuvenating and authentic onsen experience in the midst of Kagoshima’s natural beauty.
Disclaimer: I went to check what it was about while hunting for all the Eevee’s manholes, but I didn’t try this. I know it is what Ibusuki is famous for, but it wasn’t the right time for me, so I decided to skip it!
Check out the adorable Eevees Manholes
Have you ever seen such cute manholes? Ibusuki isn’t famous for its sandbath and lake monsters! It is also famous for its Eevee manholes; there are around 240+ scattered across Japan, and if you’re looking specifically for Eevees, then Ibusuki is the spot you want to check!
While there are buses that round across Ibusuki, very few are apart, so I decided to spend my whole day on foot as it was beautiful. The first few manholes are located relatively close in the distance. The last two were quite a bit of a walk (as you can see on the map below), but that allowed us to uncover more of the area!
Here is the map of all the spots where you can find those adorable Eevee manholes! Click on the image to open it on Google Maps!
Ibusuki Park – Tara Cape
Overlooking the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, this expansive park boasts lush greenery, rugged cliffs, and panoramic vistas that beckon travellers to explore its picturesque surroundings.
Tara Cape, a prominent park feature, is renowned for its stunning coastal views and dramatic rock formations, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Visitors can also stroll along the park’s winding paths, enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst the coastal breeze, or bask in the serenity of this coastal paradise.
Chiringashima
Chiringashima is a small volcanic island off the coast of Kagoshima in Japan. It boasts a rugged landscape and pristine natural beauty. The particularity of this island is that you can only access it on foot at low tides when I visit.
Sadly, the tide wasn’t low enough, and while you could somewhat see the path you’d need to walk on( it’s the white line you can see in the photos above), it was not practicable, which is a shame as I would have loved to go.
We have a similar place in France, with “Le Passage du Gois” or the famous “Mt Saint Michel” islet (although both have bridges for easier access).
Formed by volcanic activity, the island is characterized by cliffs, rocky shores, and lush vegetation, creating a picturesque setting for exploration and adventure.
Visitors can embark on boat tours around the island to marvel at its dramatic coastline and towering sea stacks, including the iconic “Chiringa Rock” that lends the island its name. Chiringashima is also a popular destination for birdwatching, with numerous seabirds and migratory species inhabiting its shores.
Whether admiring the stunning vistas, exploring the island’s geological features, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of its remote location, a visit to Chiringashima offers a memorable escape into the natural wonders of Kagoshima.
Ibusuki Shrine
Before returning to Kagoshima City, this small and quiet Shrine was my last activity.
Dedicated to the Shinto deity Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun, this ancient shrine attracts visitors seeking blessings for prosperity, good health, and success. It had a beautiful Goshuin that I regret not having cash to buy!
Surrounded by towering cedar trees and enveloped in tranquillity, the shrine offers a serene retreat for prayer and contemplation. Visitors can also explore the shrine’s architecture, including its distinctive vermilion torii gates and traditional wooden structures, which reflect the timeless beauty of Japanese religious traditions.
Bonus: Golden Torii at Ikeda Lake
I am adding this as a bonus because I didn’t do it, but it’s an important part of Ibusuki, and it sounds very fun to check out from what I heard. By the end of the afternoon, I was feeling poorly, and the bus schedule was not very convenient, so I opted to go back to Kagoshima and rest.
Where To Stay In Kagoshima?
During my stay in Kagoshima City, I stayed at this Airbnb. It is located away from the centre, but it was the cheapest I found in the area. I stayed four nights for only 87€.
The place is clean and has everything you need; I don’t think you can get a better deal.
Conclusion: Kagoshima 3 day itinerary
This concludes my three-day itinerary in Kagoshima. I hope you find this itinerary helpful in planning your own and that it inspires you to visit new places or put Kagoshima on your travel list if it hasn’t been there yet!
If I had two extra days, I would have visited Yakushima Island in the southern part of Kagoshima overnight. I considered a day trip, but ultimately, it felt too short and rushed.
I had a lot of fun exploring Kagoshima during those 3 days before moving on to Oita, passing by Miyazaki!
Make sure to check out those other Japan travel posts:
- Ride a steam locomotive in Chichibu: SL Paleo Express.
- First Time In Tokyo Complete Travel Guide
- Mt Fuji Tour Review: Check Out Famous Photos Spots
- 11 Things To Know Before Visiting Japan
Also, follow me on Instagram to check out my travel adventures around Europe and more lifestyle content @cpt_lyne!
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A Relax 3 day in Kagoshima Itinerary, Japan
✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip
✈ How To Find Flights?
– Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights.
– Google Flight is also a good help when it comes to comparing flights.
✈ Where To Book Accommodations?
– Booking.com: plenty of options and ways to get discount the more you book.
✈ Best Sites To Book Activities
– GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them.
– Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website or different day trips—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…).
✈ Other helpful travel resources
– Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them.
– TheTrainline: If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe.
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Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!
