A Six-in-One Guide to the Charms of Kagoshima: Explore the Hometown of Tenshōin

Written by TRAVELER Luxe (April issue)

 

When you visit Kagoshima, the dilemma soon arises: how can you fully experience this land, the hometown of Tenshōin and also the honeymoon destination of Sakamoto Ryōma? Fortunately, the map allows us to roughly divide the area into four routes—Kirishima, Chiran, Ibusuki, and Amami.

Kirishima Shrine

Ryōma brought his wife, Oryō, to Kirishima for hot spring therapy and also visited Kirishima Shrine. According to the Kojiki, the grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, Ninigi-no-Mikoto, descended here. It is the second most sacred Shinto site in Japan after Ise Grand Shrine. As you walk along the tree-lined approach flanked by towering cedar trees, even non-Shinto visitors will find their spirits soothed by the tranquil atmosphere. But if you're seeking luck, be sure to visit Kamigata Shrine in Amami Bay. The challenge? Balance a traditional pot lid on your head and walk the 10-meter path from the torii gate to the offering box. Legend says that those who succeed will have their wishes granted—Japan’s women’s soccer captain, Homare Sawa, reportedly prayed here before leading Japan to a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics.

 

◎ Kirishima Shrine

Address: 2608-5 Kirishima-Takiguchi, Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan

Phone: +81-(0)995-57-0001

Sengan-en

With Sakurajima Volcano occasionally puffing smoke from its peak and the shimmering waters of Kinkō Bay, Sengan-en embraces this breathtaking scenery. Built in 1658 as a villa by Shimazu Mitsuhisa, the 19th lord of the Satsuma Domain, this garden—renowned as one of Japan’s most celebrated—takes its name from the immortal peaks of China’s Mount Longhu (Xianyan). A bamboo grove reminiscent of southern China’s Jiangnan region further reflects the deep Chinese cultural influence. Within Sengan-en, there is also a cat shrine believed to bring great wealth. Many flock here to buy cat-themed good-luck charms. Truly, these feline talismans are purring pathways to prosperity.

 

◎ Sengan-en

Address: 9700-1 Yoshinocho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan

Phone: +81-(0)99-247-1551

Sunamushi (sand bath) and Sakura Sakura Onsen

For a more relaxing itinerary with added beauty benefits, the group sand burial experience in Ibusuki is unbeatable. Pile after pile of steaming 50°C sand is shoveled onto your body, and within seconds, you’ll be breaking into a sweat. But knowing that just 10–15 minutes under the sand can leave your skin smooth and radiant—and even help improve circulation caused by rich diets—is reason enough to endure the heat. The effects are said to be three to four times better than a regular hot spring soak. And don’t forget the Sakura Sakura Onsen, where volcanic mud rich in natural hot spring essence is applied to your face and body. Wash off the strong sulfur scent, and you’re left with gloriously smooth, glowing skin. Its beautifying magic earns a big thumbs up.

 

●  Further reading:

Shining Winter: Starry Nights over Fukuoka