Kagoshima: Things To Do In The City Center

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In this part, I’d like to introduce 3 things, which I did last time, to do in the city center for you. Kagoshima city is located on almost center of the prefecture and it takes about 1 hour by bus from Kagoshima airport.

Due to the city center, there are many shops and sightseeing spot in this area. If you wanna visit Sakurajima, you can access to a ferry from the city center. From convenience points, Kagoshima city is the best place to trip around.

Following my contents, I’d like to give you my recommendation to enjoy Kagoshima city. If you are thinking about a plan to visit Kagoshima, please read my blog. Also, I wrote another area of Kagoshima so, another contents also help you to visit Kagoshima!

Isa city, Kagoshima
Kirishima city, Kagoshima
Two Jingu in Kirishima city, Kagoshima
Onsen Trip in Kagoshima

***Are you looking for hotel in Kagoshima? Agoda will help you to make your reservation!***

1. Sengan-en

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Senganen(仙巌園), located in Kagoshima City, is a splendid Japanese garden and historic site offering visitors a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Established in 1658 by the powerful Shimadzu clan, the garden features meticulously designed landscapes, including serene ponds, elegant bamboo groves, and a striking view of the active Sakurajima volcano across Kinko Bay.

The site also includes traditional teahouses, charming stone lanterns, and the historic Shoko Shuseikan museum, which showcases artifacts from the Shimadzu family and the region’s rich history. Senganen provides a peaceful retreat where visitors can immerse themselves in the harmonious blend of nature and history, making it a must-visit destination in Kagoshima.

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The garden was designed by Shimadzu Mitsuhisa, the 19th head of the clan, who envisioned a landscape that would showcase the beauty of nature and reflect the clan’s power and prestige. Situated in Kagoshima City, Senganen was originally created as a private villa and garden for the Shimadzu family. The garden’s design incorporates the surrounding natural scenery, including Kinko Bay and the active Sakurajima volcano, using the traditional Japanese technique of “borrowed scenery” to enhance its aesthetic appeal. Over the centuries, Senganen has been carefully maintained and preserved, serving as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

In addition to its natural beauty, Senganen is historically significant for its role in the modernization of Japan during the Meiji Restoration. The adjacent Shoko Shuseikan, established in 1851 by Shimadzu Nariakira, the 28th head of the Shimadzu clan, was one of Japan’s first modern industrial complexes. This site played a crucial role in introducing Western technology and industry to Japan, marking the beginning of the country’s transformation into a modern state. Today, visitors to Senganen can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, traditional teahouses, and historical artifacts in the Shoko Shuseikan museum, gaining a deeper understanding of both the natural and historical significance of this remarkable site.

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To put it simply, Sengan-en is very huge. To walk around this garden, you have to take at least one hour. If you go to the inside of house and walk around all garden, you’ll take like 3 hours. You know, your trip plan is very limited, so please make sure that you are better to decide where you’re gonna visit or not in advance.

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Totally, Sengan-en is the huge Japanese garden. It’s so quiet atmosphere and there are many beautiful views. If you’re interested in, why don’t you visit there!

Business hour: 9am-5pm

2. Tenmonkan Avenue

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Tenmonkan Avenue, located in the bustling city center of Kagoshima, is a lively and dynamic hub that showcases the city’s rich cultural and commercial life. This historic shopping district dates back to the early 20th century and has evolved into one of Kagoshima’s most popular destinations for both locals and tourists. The avenue is lined with a diverse array of shops, from traditional Japanese stores selling local crafts and souvenirs to modern boutiques featuring the latest fashion trends.

Additionally, visitors can find a variety of restaurants and cafes offering both regional delicacies, such as the famous Kagoshima kurobuta (black pork) and sweet potato shochu, as well as international cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere of Tenmonkan Avenue makes it an ideal place to experience the unique blend of old and new that characterizes Kagoshima.

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In addition to its commercial appeal, Tenmonkan Avenue is also a cultural hotspot, hosting numerous events and festivals throughout the year. The avenue’s central location makes it a prime venue for traditional Japanese festivals, parades, and street performances, providing visitors with an immersive cultural experience. Notable landmarks such as the Kagoshima City Museum of Art and the nearby Kagoshima Aquarium add to the area’s attractions, making it a comprehensive destination for entertainment, shopping, and cultural exploration.

Whether strolling through its lively streets during the day or enjoying its vibrant nightlife, Tenmonkan Avenue offers a dynamic and unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Kagoshima’s urban charm.

3. Foods

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As I mentioned the last part, besides Tenmonkan Avenue, there are many kinds of restaurant and cafe. You have many choice to enjoy a dinner.

Here is one of the Kyushu cuisine’s restaurant. It’s Motsunabe(もつ鍋)(Pork tripe hotpot) Tatsu. Have you ever tried pork tripe? I think you’ve never had this food in your country because I heard people don’t eat the part of pork.

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The texture and taste is very unique. Plus, this hotpot is based on miso soup, so the mixed taste of miso and motsu is delicious. This cuisine is famous in Fukuoka prefecture. The owner has been trained at Fukuoka for 15years to make great miso taste motsunabe. After his training, he opened miso taste restaurant in Kagoshima. When you travel Kyushu especially, Fukuoka and Kagoshima, please try pork tripe!

4. Conclusion

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In conclusion, the city center in Kagoshima is very convenient to trip around. There is a city bus for trip around and there are many kinds of restaurant, which means you can enjoy many kinds of Kyushu cuisines.

If you’re interested in Kagoshima city center and you’ve been there, please leave your comments!!!

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