Kagoshima
Roam the tropical fairytale landscape of Japan's south.
Earth, water, and fire - nowhere in Japan are these elemental forces more keenly felt than in Kagoshima Prefecture. At the country’s southern tip, this horseshoe-shaped prefecture is home to both geological and ecological wonders. From active volcanoes and natural hot springs to tropical islands and ancient fairytale forests, this is Japan at its most untamed. For adventurous travelers, Kagoshima is a thrilling playground of vertiginous vistas and immense forests, while for the more casual explorer, it is a place of luxury spa hotels, white-sand beaches and a wide range of outdoor activities suitable for all fitness levels.

Volcano Discovery Tour: Available year-round
Island Tours: Best enjoyed from May to October
In the shadow of Kagoshima’s many volcanoes, local residents have adapted to life alongside these titanic forces of nature, regarding them with respect and awe.
Get lost on the fairytale island of Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to picturesque moss forests and to the legendary ‘yakusugi’ cedar trees.
Far to the south, Amami Island offers a secluded tropical retreat with sandy beaches, unhurried island culture, and excellent snorkeling and scuba diving.
In the shadow of Kagoshima’s many volcanoes, local residents have adapted to life alongside these titanic forces of nature, regarding them with respect and awe.
Get lost on the fairytale island of Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to picturesque moss forests and to the legendary ‘yakusugi’ cedar trees.
Far to the south, Amami Island offers a secluded tropical retreat with sandy beaches, unhurried island culture, and excellent snorkeling and scuba diving.
2 days / 3 nights
Witness the raw power of Kagoshima's volcanoes
Discover Kagoshima's fascinating volcanic scenery and history on a tour of the Sakurajima area.
•
Relax in one of Kagoshima's many natural ‘onsen’ hot springs.
•
Hike to the top of an active volcano to discover stunning views and learn about the area's unique nature.
4 days / 3 nights
Journey deep into the forests of Yakushima
Hike along a secret trail through untouched forest to search for the area's monkeys and deer.
•
Experience the otherwordly nature that inspired the Studio Ghibli animated film ‘Princess Mononoke’.
•
Unwind at a luxury spa set against the dramatic backdrop of Yakushima's soaring mountaintops.
4 days / 3 nights
Lose yourself among the turquoise waters of Amami Island
Relax on the white sand beaches of Amami Island.
•
Taste delicious, fresh seafood and even experience fishing it yourself with some local fishermen.
•
Get your hands dirty during a traditional mud dyeing experience.
2 days / 3 nights
Witness the raw power of Kagoshima's volcanoes
Discover Kagoshima's fascinating volcanic scenery and history on a tour of the Sakurajima area.
•
Relax in one of Kagoshima's many natural ‘onsen’ hot springs.
•
Hike to the top of an active volcano to discover stunning views and learn about the area's unique nature.
4 days / 3 nights
Journey deep into the forests of Yakushima
Hike along a secret trail through untouched forest to search for the area's monkeys and deer.
•
Experience the otherwordly nature that inspired the Studio Ghibli animated film ‘Princess Mononoke’.
•
Unwind at a luxury spa set against the dramatic backdrop of Yakushima's soaring mountaintops.
4 days / 3 nights
Lose yourself among the turquoise waters of Amami Island
Relax on the white sand beaches of Amami Island.
•
Taste delicious, fresh seafood and even experience fishing it yourself with some local fishermen.
•
Get your hands dirty during a traditional mud dyeing experience.