Kagoshima was never on our radar until my sister studied abroad there, and we went to visit her. The city is certainly not a tourist hotspot, but we discovered—to our pleasant surprise—it’s still worth a visit. Located at the southernmost tip of Japan, Kagoshima prefecture’s distinct geography and culture make this underrated destination a place worth experiencing.

Explore in Ease

If you’re flying into Kagoshima, the airport is a few hours away from the city center. Luckily, there is a bus that can take you straight there. Exit the airport to find the bus stop. Buy your bus ticket at the cryptic automated ticket machine which, unfortunately for non-native speakers, is only in Japanese. The buttons are all numbered. Insert your money (probably ¥2,000) and, if you’re going to Tenmonkan like I did, press the 1250 button. I took the number two bus to Tenmonkan. If you have a suitcase, let the bus driver know where you’re going. After a few hours drive, get off at your designated stop and enjoy your time in Kagoshima! You can take the same bus back to the airport as well. It’s much easier getting back as you’ll just pay the bus driver directly and the bus-stop signs are translated in English.

Kagoshima offers a tram service that costs ¥170 no matter where you go. You must pay exact change, and they don’t accept Pasmo or Suica. To visit places outside of Kagoshima city, you may want to use the train. Suica and Pasmo are accepted, but plan your trip in advance, and don’t miss the train. They come less often than the trains in Tokyo, so if you’re not careful, you may find yourself waiting over an hour for the next train.

Witness a Volcanic Eruption

Sakurajima is Kagoshima’s iconic landmark and one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. Although not as big as Mount Fuji, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character. Keep your eyes peeled for volcanic eruptions. On especially active days, you’re likely to notice ash falling from the sky.

The volcano is visible almost everywhere in Kagoshima, but for a close-up view of the volcano, take a pleasant and relatively short ferry ride from Kagoshima Port to Sakurajima Ferry Terminal. Ride the bus up to the popular observation point, or enjoy ocean views and lava rocks on the leisurely Nagisa Lava Trail. After walking along the there-and-back Nagisa Trail, dip your tired feet in the free-of-charge Nagisa Park Foot Bath.

Hike Mount Kaimon 

This dormant volcano is not for the faint of heart but a must try for avid hikers and active tourists. Get ready to sweat as you climb rocks, ladders and rope, and be prepared for slips and falls on the way down: loose lava rock and steep declines lead to poor footing. The expansive and dramatic views are certainly worth the challenge, and be on the lookout for wildlife. We saw a bunch of beautiful insects—there were butterflies everywhere—and I even saw a snake! 

Shop Kagoshima City

Visit Tenmonkan Street and Dolphin Port for local trinkets, snacks and trendy fashion boutiques. Or, for something a little more conventional, stop by the Amu Plaza Indoor Mall. All three are worth exploring.

Dine on Local Delicacies

Try Kagoshima’s locally sourced steak, ramen and ice cream for an especially delicious and unique taste. The local seafood, like their sea urchin (or “ume”) and fish, are also must tries. For something unique, check out their trendy flowing ramen and Shirokuma shaved ice.