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Takamori Saigon was a lower-level official in the Satsuma domain when he was discovered by Satsuma lord Nariakira Shimazu, and he later became a central figure in the move to overthrow the Tokugawa Shogunate. So I started things off by taking a souvenir photo in front of the Takamori Saigon bronze statue to boost the Kagoshima mood! There's even a photo spot in place, so stand by the beloved dog and ... ready, set, "cheese!"
The Kagoshima City Modern Literature Museum introduces the authors of Kagoshima Yukari.How about getting a glimpse of the appeal of Kagoshima through these distinguished authors? And the adjacent "Märchen" Fairy Tale Museum is filled with the stars of the fairy tales everyone knows and loves.It's a place everyone can enjoy, from children to adults. Be sure to check out the marionette clock in the courtyard, too!
If your glimpse of Kagoshima's history and literature leaves you hungry, head over to Kurokatsu-tei for some of Kagoshima's local specialty, kurobuta (black pork). At lunchtime, you can indulge in some kurobuta at an reasonable price! With the "Kurokatsu-tei lunch" (980 yen), you get to try roast filet as well, making it an especially great deal! You'll be won over by the glorious harmony created by the crisp coating and the juicy meat.
Use your SUNQ pass to hop a ferry to Sakurajima island.Riding a ferry is not something I get to do every day, so … I took this opportunity to make my first trip ever to Sakurajima! So how about enjoying a leisurely 15 min. cruise while you gaze at the vast expanse of the ocean and the large island of Sakurajima?
When you get to Sakurajima, come relax your tired feet after walking around all day. Lava Nagisa Park has one of the largest foot baths in Japan, with a total length of 100 m! Sit with your feet in the bath and let your mind wander, or lie down on the grass … spend some time indulging in a touch of luxury -- this is a leisurely trip, after all. As you gaze out at the majestic scenery, your weariness is sure to melt away.
make your way to "Authentic shochu: Satsuma Goju-gura and GALLERIA HOMBO," where you can learn all about shochu, from touring the storehouse to tasting the finished product. Savor to your heart's content the uncompromising, refined shochu of the Hombo sake brewery. Naturally, you're welcome to buy some as a souvenir, too.
From the famous sightseeing spots that symbolize the city of Kagoshima to a somewhat deep, well-kept secret spot, I enjoyed a luxurious 1st day. I had always admired Sakurajima from afar, but I finally got to set foot on it, and it did not disappoint! I was surprised to find that there are so many interesting spots to see on the island. And if you show your SUNQ pass, you don't need to pay for the ferry, so it's a great deal!!
Kareigawa station is an unmanned station located in between mountains of the Kirishima mountain range. Made of wood and built around 100 years ago, the station house is packed with flavor and has a richly nostalgic mood about it. The waiting room has a long wooden bench, and everything in sight is just as it's been for years. It's clear that the station house is very well preserved, and it is a worthwhile place to visit even for folks who are not huge railway fans.
After strolling around the station a while and working up an appetite, head in the direction of the Maruo hot spring. At the Kirishima Onsen Ichiba (hot spring market), located right where you get off the bus, you'll find not only local specialty products being sold but also an adjacent restaurant. Plus, outside you can buy "onsen dango" (hot springs dumplings) steam-cooked with the steam from the hot springs, along with sweet potatoes and steamed kurobuta meat buns. Why not enjoy a refreshing break at this versatile market?
At first glance, it looks like an ordinary waterfall. But actually, this is a hot-water waterfall, where water from the nearby hot spring collects and drops. Supposedly, hot steam rises from it in the wintertime. That's pretty unique, isn't it!? At 23 m tall and 16 m wide, this stunning, dynamic scene is a sight to behold! You can get surprisingly close to the waterfall, so go ahead and soak up the great power of nature to your heart's content.
The largest shrine in southern Kyushu, this place was even visited by Ryoma Sakamoto (a leader of the movement to overthrow the Tokugawa Shogunate) on his honeymoon. The contrast between the surrounding green and the bright red of the main hall is lovely, and the shrine has quite an elegant look. From the observation deck, you can experience a panoramic view of Sakurajima, and the view is outstanding! While you think back upon the days when Sakamoto traveled here, take a leisurely stroll around. It's a spiritual spot where you can quieten your senses.
Did you know there's a great place near Kirishima Jingu? ts name is "Mitarashi Falls." It's small in scale, with a drop of only 4 m, but it's a very quaint waterfall. The scene of water flowing down a mossy rock face is beautiful, and you won't tire of it, no matter how long you look. It has an ample water volume, too, which keeps the surrounding area fresh and cool. It's a good place to gaze blankly in admiration until it's time for the bus.
Barrel Valley Praha & Gen, located near the Kagoshima Airport, is a theme park that faithfully recreates the cityscape of the Czech capital of Prague. And not only that, but since it's located in Kagoshima … not only can you tour the shochu factory, but you can also taste a variety of original shochu brews. Relax in the cafe, buy souvenirs, and indulge yourself in a fun time!
Stretch your legs a bit…Barrel Valley Praha & Gen（IMG_6797） Barrel Valley Praha & Gen, located near the Kagoshima Airport, is a theme park that faithfully recreates the cityscape of the Czech capital of Prague. And not only that, but since it's located in Kagoshima … not only can you tour the shochu factory, but you can also taste a variety of original shochu brews. Relax in the cafe, buy souvenirs, and indulge yourself in a fun time!
A full-scale mock-up of a rocket and a massive planetarium dome mark the Miyazaki Science Center. At this facility, filled with numerous exhibits based on cutting-edge science and technology, you can learn about science through real sensory experiences. With a diameter of 27 m, the planetarium is the 3rd largest in the world, and children and adults alike are sure to enjoy it 120%.
The Miyazaki prefectural office has become one of Miyazaki's most famous sightseeing spots. It turns out, it is the only prefectural office still standing in Kyushu from the pre-war era. Said to be the 4th oldest in the country, it's a structure with a long and distinguished history. This modern building, certainly a conversation starter, is well worth a look. At the Miyazaki Tokusankan (local specialty hall), you can purchase souvenirs unique to Miyazaki.
When it comes to food that's representative of Miyazaki, things like chicken nanban (deep-fried chicken with tartar sauce and peppers) and hiyajiru (cold miso soup) come to mind … but there's also a hidden yet famous shop that's loved by local residents, a kamaage udon (udon noodles with dipping broth served hot or cold) shop called Sigenoi. Its homemade, hand-kneaded noodles have body and go well with the sweet, soy sauce base packed with green onions and fried eggs (regular size shown, 600 yen). Coach Nagashima and lots of athletes come here for its much talked-about taste. Be sure to come give it a try!
As you walk along a street lined with thickly growing camphor, pine, and cedar trees, up ahead in the distance you will see the Miyazaki Jingu. This shrine is said to be dedicated to Japan's first emperor, Emperor Jinmu. A solemn mood encompasses the grounds, giving you a humbled feeling as you walk around. "Please let me return home safely from my trip" … Better late than never to say a little prayer for safe travels!
Located on a hill where it offers a panoramic view of the city of Miyazaki, Heiwadai Park has lots of fun facilities inside, including a clay figurine garden, an athletic ground, and a restaurant. One of the most impressive features is the 37 m Tower of Peace, built nearly 70 years ago. It might be nice to end your visit by relaxing under the clear blue sky and reflecting back on the memories of your trip.
The Kuroki Honten (main shop) is a leading sake maker in Miyazaki prefecture. It produces several excellent shochu brews, including the "Hyaku-nen no kodoku" (100 years of solitude), which is famous nationwide. Kuroki Honten's commitment to carefully preserving tradition while constantly pursuing new possibilities for shochu is demonstrated in great tastes that everyone can agree with. Don't miss the chance to come taste that commitment with your own tongue.
On the 3rd day, I had a blast in Miyazaki prefecture, which ended up being utterly major. I traveled from one edge to the other of Miyazaki city by bus. While also discovering some relatively unknown sightseeing spots, I was able to experience the full extent of Miyazaki's appeal. Thanks to the SUNQ pass, I had fun-filled 3 days, and my belly was full, too! This was a trip with no regrets!
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