Fresh Travel Adventure: A Volcano-Walking Journey in Kyushu::Kagoshima

Kyushu is the closest part of Japan’s archipelago to Taiwan. Despite the short flight time, you can experience natural and cultural landscapes distinct from those in Taiwan, as well as the charm of both urban and rural sightseeing. That’s why it is the first choice for many Taiwanese travelers visiting Japan.

Surrounded by the sea, Kyushu leaves a deep impression with its delicious food, hot springs, and theme parks. Whether it’s the most famous ramen, black pork, or Satsuma chicken, every carefully selected delicacy is mouthwatering. The popular hot spring towns such as Yufuin, Beppu, and Kurokawa each have their own unique charm. This time, we go deeper into Kyushu’s most spectacular natural wonders. From islands blessed by nature to historic World Heritage Sites, every landscape allows everyone to fully appreciate the rich resources of Kyushu.
 

Day 1
【Itinerary】Taoyuan – Miyazaki – Kagoshima
【Accommodation】Stay at Tokyu Hotel

★★★ Recommended Attraction = Satsuma Glass Craft
Satsuma cut glass is a traditional craft specialty of Kagoshima, originating in 1846 under the Shimazu clan feudal lord. Initially developed for researching colored glass used in medicinal containers, it gave rise to red, blue, purple, and green varieties of Satsuma cut glass. Later, by incorporating glass craftsmanship techniques from China and the West, even more exquisite artworks were created. The Satsuma Glass Craft business is now inherited by descendants of the Shimazu family. The factory seen today has been reconstructed based on historical records, giving it a strong nostalgic feel...Click to view all attraction information

★★★ Recommended Attraction = Shochu Paradise
Located in the liveliest nightlife area of Kagoshima, Shochu Paradise is run by the very talkative and always smiling owner, Ms. Yukiko Hamazono. Nearly 30 years since its opening, the shop has ridden the wave of the growing shochu culture and continues to be beloved, with around 90% of its customers being tourists. Amidst the owner’s cheerful chats, it’s common to see previously unfamiliar guests start chatting with each other...Click to view all attraction information

Day 2
【Itinerary】AMU Plaza – Nichiichi Tenmangu Store – Kagoshima Aquarium
【Accommodation】Tourist Local Inn

★★★ Recommended Attraction = AMU Plaza Kagoshima
The exit of JR Kagoshima-Chuo Station is adjacent to the AMU PLAZA shopping mall. Featuring an iconic 90-meter Ferris wheel, the mall became Kagoshima’s trendiest shopping center after its completion in September 2004, attracting many teenagers. The six-floor retail space focuses on youth-oriented goods, and the Ferris wheel that offers a panoramic view of Kagoshima City is also located here. Riding the eye-catching red Ferris wheel and ascending to its highest point, you’ll see the symbol of Kagoshima—Sakurajima, an active volcano—lying across Kagoshima Bay. Below, trams move through the streets, and the Kyushu Shinkansen stops at the central station...Click to view all attraction information

★★★ Recommended Attraction = Kagoshima Aquarium
Opened in May 1997, Kagoshima Aquarium not only showcases aquatic animals but also offers dynamic activities such as dolphin shows, sea otter feedings, starfish and sea urchin touching experiences for visitors to enjoy. The aquarium is home to nearly 500 species, including colorful jellyfish, the world’s largest freshwater fish—the arapaima, spider crabs, and Satsuma yosoku worms. The collection mainly features fish species from the seas near Kagoshima, along with others exchanged with different aquariums. Special exhibitions are held periodically, and the fish species are rotated every two years to keep the aquarium feeling fresh and ensure visitors never get bored, no matter how many times they come. Among them, the most popular exhibits among tourists are...Click to view all attraction information