Situated at the southwestern tip of Kyushu, Kagoshima Prefecture encompasses vibrancy and tranquillity, all within 3,500 square miles.

This seaside region is home to healing hot springs, fresh local cuisine and heaps of fascinating heritage and history. This picture-perfect location is perfect for those looking for insight into traditional Japanese culture and nature. From its varied wellness offering to delectable cuisine, discover the best of Kagoshima.

A WELLNESS HOTSPOT
Ibusuki Onsen
Ibusuki Onsen, located at the southern tip of Kagoshima, is home to natural hot springs and is famous for its sunamashi, or sandbathing. Volcanic hot springs line the coast of Ibusuki, warming the sands to 50-55 degrees Celsius.

To experience a sand bath, guests wear a light cotton yukata, and lie in a shallow depression on the beach. An attendant will protect guests’ faces with a towel and shovel warm sand over them until they are buried up to the neck This allows the body to eliminate toxins and impurities from the skin, stimulates blood circulation and enables the body to absorb minerals that are present in the sand, providing the ultimate R&R experience.

CAPTIVATING CULTURE
Kirishima Jingu Shrine
The Kirishima Jingu Shrine is renowned for its colourful, carved exterior, which contrasts with the deep green tones of the cedar forest that surrounds it. The original shrine suffered damage from volcanic eruptions, was rebuilt at the current site in 1715 and is roughly an hour from Kagoshima city by train. This grand vermillion shrine is rich in mythology, as it’s believed this is where the Japanese imperial family can trace its heritage to the sun goddess Amaterasu.

IN TOUCH WITH NATURE
Yakushima National Park
Kagoshima is well-known for Yakushima National Park. This island off the southern coast of Kagoshima has a unique ecosystem which led to its designation as a World Heritage site in 1993. The island has the highest mountain in Kyushu, dense forests home to Japan’s oldest living trees, as well as quiet beaches. Visitors can take a gentle stroll through the ancient forests or simply forest bathe – an ancient Japanese relaxation technique known as shinrin yoku.

LOCAL DELICACIES
Regional Cuisine
Kagoshima Prefecture is a major food hub in Japan. Its satsuma ryori (satsuma cuisine) is famous for bold flavours that highlight the richness of the landscape, from the farmland to the sea. Satsuma-age is a fried fish cake which is made from the local catch, served with wasabi soy sauce. A classic satsuma-age is golden brown on the outside and white on the inside with a light saltiness and sweetness from the natural flavours of fish. Tobiou (flying fish) is another common dish in Kagoshima’s restaurants. Often enjoyed as mild-flavoured sashimi or fried in their entirety, when prepared in the latter way, the whole fish, from head to wings, can be consumed.