Kagoshima Prefecture｜A Land Shaped by Volcanoes, Sea, and Rich History
Kagoshima Prefecture｜A Land Shaped by Volcanoes, Sea, and Rich History
Located in the southern part of Kyushu, Kagoshima Prefecture is a region blessed with dramatic volcanic landscapes and coastal beauty. Dominated by the iconic Sakurajima volcano, the area reflects the resilience and ingenuity of people who have lived alongside an active volcano for generations.
Sakurajima, still emitting smoke today, rises from Kagoshima Bay as a powerful natural presence. Accessible by ferry and observation decks, it offers an up-close view of the raw force of nature, forming an unforgettable part of the local scenery.
Kagoshima also includes island regions such as Yakushima and Amami Oshima. These islands are home to ancient forests, including the famous Jomon Sugi cedar, rich biodiversity, and coral-fringed shores—making them globally recognized natural treasures.
Historically, the area was the seat of the Satsuma Domain, with Kagoshima City at its heart. It played a key role in the Meiji Restoration, producing notable figures like Saigo Takamori. The deep connection between nature and a strong cultural identity remains a source of pride for the people of Kagoshima.
The region is also known for its unique hot springs, especially the sand baths of Ibusuki, where visitors are buried in naturally heated sand—a practice rooted in volcanic wellness traditions.
With its mountains, seas, islands, and volcanic power, Kagoshima stands at the southern tip of Japan as a place of unmatched natural variety and cultural richness.
- Kagoshima City
- Kagoshima city
- Kirishima city
- Kanoya City
- Approximately 1.6 million
- Sakurajima
- Yakushima (World Heritage Site)
- Ibusuki Hot Springs
- Sengan-en Garden
- Fried fish cake made from minced fish and flour, a specialty of Kagoshima.
- Chicken rice soup with shredded chicken, rice, and various toppings, a traditional dish from Amami Islands.
- Satsuma Kiriko – Cut glassware from Kagoshima, known for its delicate patterns and vibrant colored layers.
- Oshima Tsumugi – High-quality silk fabric traditionally woven on Amami Ōshima, famous for its intricate geometric patterns and natural dyeing techniques.
Sakurajima – An iconic, still-active volcano in Kagoshima, standing as a powerful symbol of nature’s force.
The Saigō Takamori Statue at Saigō Park — over 8 m tall, this commanding monument honors the influential hero of the Meiji Restoration.
Kirishima Shrine — an ancient and revered shrine in southern Kyushu, known for its striking vermilion buildings set at the foot of the Kirishima mountains.
The sky and sea of Naze, Amami Ōshima — a tranquil tropical view where clear blue skies meet the emerald waters of the island.
Uchui (Waachi) Beach on Yoronjima, Kagoshima — a hidden tropical paradise with white sands and crystal-clear waters.
Yakushima — a UNESCO World Natural Heritage island, famed for its lush forests and mystical, ancient cedar trees.