Kagoshima tours

Things to do in Kagoshima

In Kagoshima, where the mighty Sakurajima volcano stands as a sentinel over the city, you're invited to explore a landscape of fiery beauty and gentle charm. Feel the pulse of Kagoshima as you meander through its vibrant markets and soak in its hot spring baths, each moment echoing with warmth and hospitality. With your local guide, step beyond the ordinary and into the heart of Kagoshima's rich heritage. Engage in private tours that reveal the city's hidden wonders: take a walking tour through historic samurai districts or indulge in a food and wine tour tasting Kagoshima's renowned black pork. Skip the line to panoramic vistas, where the volcano's majesty takes your breath away. Your guide's stories and insights transform your visit into a personal journey through Kagoshima's dynamic landscape, where every encounter is filled with the spirit of adventure. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Kagoshima. Explore Kagoshima your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Kagoshima tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Kagoshima for every interest, including: History tours: Trace Satsuma heritage at Sengan-en and the Shoko Shuseikan (a World Heritage site), then stand by the statue of Saigō Takamori and hear the last-stand story at Nanshū Cemetery. If you want more, add the Museum of the Meiji Restoration or the preserved homes and gardens in the Chiran Samurai District. Nature and Wildlife tours: Ride the ferry to Sakurajima for an easy walk on the Nagisa Lava Trail and big views from Yunohira Observatory, finishing with a soak at the free Nagisa footbath. In winter, head to Izumi to see thousands of cranes at the observation centre, or go to Ibusuki for a natural sand-bath on the beach. Food and Drink tours: Eat kurobuta pork shabu-shabu, satsuma-age, and kibinago sashimi at local spots in the Tenmonkan neighbourhood while your guide lines up an imo shochu tasting. Visit a black vinegar brewery such as Sakamoto Kurozu Tsubobatake for tastings with a bay view, then cool off with a Shirokuma shaved ice at Tenmonkan Mujaki. Getting around: The city centre is walkable, and trams plus the City View bus connect major sights; the Sakurajima ferry runs frequently. For Chiran, Izumi, Kirishima, or the vinegar fields in Fukuyama, distances are longer, so tours with private transportation or fully chauffeured tours are practical—ask your local guide about arranging a vehicle. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Kagoshima inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Experience Kagoshima's diverse neighborhoods on a private walking tour, guided by a local who knows the ins and outs of this exciting city. There's no better way to get to know a place than with someone who lives there. - Tenmonkan: This lively shopping district is the go-to spot for those who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of local shops and eateries to explore. - Sakurajima: For adventure seekers, a visit to this active volcano offers hiking trails and hot springs, making it a thrilling experience for families and nature lovers alike. - Sengan-en: This traditional Japanese garden provides a serene escape with stunning views of Sakurajima. It's an ideal location for cultural tourists looking to appreciate Japan's garden design and history. Day trip ideas from Kagoshima Use Kagoshima as your base, then branch out to nearby volcanoes, onsen towns, and old samurai streets that make easy day trips and fit well into your private tours. - Sakurajima: Hop the short ferry for lava fields, seaside foot baths, and lookout points like Yunohira with wide views of the active crater, and shape your tour around short walks, quiet coastal roads, and small shrines between scenic stops. - Ibusuki: Head south for natural sand baths warmed by the earth, sea views along the Satsuma Peninsula, and Cape Nagasakibana’s lighthouse facing Kaimondake, and add a simple onsen soak or a beach stroll if you want to keep things low key. - Chiran: Step into a preserved samurai district with stone walls and compact gardens, visit small museums and tea fields on nearby hills, and focus your time on architecture, local history, or green tea tasting depending on your interests. - Kirishima: Go inland for cedar forests, volcanic trails, and Kirishima Jingu Shrine, with options for light hikes around Takachiho-gawara and a relaxed hot spring stop to round out the day. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Kagoshima most travellers miss.