Taylor Henderson
I found my visit to the Sakurajima Volcano a bit intimidating. My only knowledge of active volcanos is that I should be scared of them so I was admittedly nervous to visit this monument, but it is a must-see when you're on the prefecture of Kagoshima. In fact, you can probably see it from many locations in the region. Hop on a ferry and walk up to the volcano (from a safe, tourist-approved distance) and if it finally decides to blow, just grab a helmet from a nearby box! It is awe-inspiring and provides many natural benefits to the town and its residents.
Just outside of the Sakurajima Visitor Center lies a public foot soak where visitors and residents huddle around to dip their toes in the naturally warmed foot soak. Underground hot springs flow into the area, and the baths are the perfect place to chat with the people around you. You can also buy a towel and more souvenirs inside the visitor center.
This stunning garden is a beautiful introduction to the area. According to their website, "Sengan-en was built in 1658 by the 19th head of the Shimazu clan, Mitsuhisa, as a villa for the Shimazu clan. The palace served as the temporary main residence during the reign of the 29th head, Tadayoshi, and also as a 'guest house' for inviting important people from Japan and abroad."
The garden includes stunning sculptures, scenery, a view of Sakurajima, and an attached museum and a glass-blowing house.
Transport yourself back to the past with a drive up to Chiran's Samurai residence settlement. The district is home to more than 500 well-preserved samurai residences from the late Edo period. The area is designated as an "Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings" by the Japanese government." The seven public gardens are officially recognized as a spot of "National Scenic Beauty."
Ibusuki Hakusuikan
For a truly unique experience, Ibusuki is the only place in the world where you can experience a natural sand bath called a sunamushi onsen. Natural minerals from the volcano and underground hot springs provide unique minerals that are very beneficial for health and wellness, so much so that residents would cover each other on the beach. According to Thrillist, "the tradition is said to have been around for over 300 years, dating back to when warriors in Ibusuki used hot springs to cure sword wounds."
Reportedly, "The heat from the hot spring causes blood vessels to dilate, which promotes circulation. And because you’re lying horizontally, blood flows more easily back to the heart, increasing the amount that gets pumped out." The process can "refresh your skin, help your body flush out toxins, and even cure ailments like back pain, neuralgia, and joint pain."
The Mars Tsunuki Whiskey Distillery is located in Tsunuki, Kaseda, Minamisatsuma City, Kagoshima Prefecture. The Hombo family has manufactured alcohol and spirits on the site for hundreds of years, and their latest venture is their award-winning whiskey. Visitors can stop by the whiskey distillation kettle, the stone cellar to see the barrels of whiskey, and can even stop by the store and bar for a tasting. I'd recommend the Hojo Selection malt, a whiskey unlike anything I've tasted before, but it seems to be in high demand as I bought the last bottle on the property. Save your room in your suitcase.
The JR Nishi-Oyama Station is a working train platform but it's a cute stop for passerby as well. It has a beautiful view of the volcano and surrounding area, and you can stop by the ring the platform bell.
You might happen to drive by Kagoshima's random sunflower fields and you should definitely pull over on the side of the road and run through. Well, carefully walk through, because they're not exactly on the beaten road.
Taylor Henderson
Here are a few must-try restaurants to add in to your schedules.
Every dish at this black vinegar specialty restaurant features, well, black vinegar. After a delicious and unique meal, head out back to see the aged vinegar on-site. Hundreds of barrels line the property with vinegar older than your nieces and nephews.
This swirling noodle restaurant transports you back to the 80s down a winding stair path for a fun Japanese experience and a delicious meal. Be sure to stop by the quite affordable surrounding shops after.
You'll need a Japanese lesson or Google Translate on hand to eat at Fishmaster Sakana-chan, a mouthwatering multi-course meal with sushi, sashimi, mussels, an array of fish, and the freshest lobster you've ever had that they later use to make a miso soup. Cap it off with a bowl of matcha ice cream for one of the best meals on the Kagoshima island.
You have quite a few options to chose from when it comes to selecting a Kagoshima hotel, and here are three more.
This hotel sits on the side of a mountain and is absolutely massive, boasting a stunning onsen, a gobsmacking view of the island and its surroundings, and offers one of the most acclaimed Japanese breakfast buffets in the area. The view in the morning is enough for me to book again another stay.
Once deemed Japan's Hawaii, Ibusuki boasts a plethora of unique hotels including the Ibusuki Hakusuikan. It's a traditional ryokan on an expansive property with a massive onsen, natural sand baths, bedrock baths, a bar, stunning traditional eating options, and is just feet away from the ocean and a museum. The rooms are set up traditionally, with a sitting area and two beds, and a stunning view of the ocean. You'll also have your own kimono to wear around the hotel, and the hotel offers a scrumptious morning buffet breakfast.
For visitors preferring more Western-style accommodations, the Sheraton Kagoshima is an easy go-to. It's a new development in the middle of the city's downtown area with a gorgeous morning breakfast. Enjoy the on-site onsen and a modern gym, a unique feature for hotels in the area. And since you're in the middle of the city, make sure to take a morning walk down to the coastline for a stunning view of the Sakurajima Volcano.
Taylor Henderson
For anyone looking for a unique LGBTQ+ scene or nightlife, this is not the island for you. You're much better off in Tokyo! Opening an app and seeing the nearest person to you is 30 miles away on a completely separate island is quite the jarring experience.
But if you're looking for a quiet retreat to an area rich with history, nature, delicious seafood, and stunning views, you've found the spot. The people here are welcoming and warm to tourists, who easily stand out amongst the locals, though it can be a bit awkward: one guy wanted to high-five me in a restaurant. My guess is he hadn't seen too many Black people in person, but I was happy to grant his wish. Respecting each other and nature is a big part of Japanese culture so as long as you keep it cute, you'll receive some amazing energy in return.
Spas and onsens are not for cruising, and I wouldn't recommend even trying. Many times when I entered one, there were kids running around. Be respectful of Japan's traditions, and let the natural minerals heal you.
Homosexuality is legal in Japan but same-gender marriage is illegal in the country. They are making strides to level the playing field though. In 2023, some regions began issuing special same-sex partnership certificates that allow some rights to LGBTQ+ couples, but they are notedly not the same marriage certificates and don't allow 100% of the same rights. Japan's parliament passed the first law addressing anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination in 2023, specifically when it comes to housing. Japan does offer gender-affirming care to transgender people, but legality and acceptance depend on the age of the individual and the region they are in.
And last but not least, bring a bit of cash! Many vendors on this island don't take card and it can be quite disappointing to leave something behind because you don't have the money.
Tipping isn't necessarily part of the culture here like it is in the U.S. and some consider it to be rude or feel like they have to give something back to you in return. Instead, I'd recommend small gifts, preferably nonperishable food. Bonus points if you bring something specific from your home country. I gave out gourmet milk chocolate candy bars to my tour guides and though I wish I could've done more, I'm glad I didn't give them something they would've felt pressured to display in their home.
