Resting at the south of the island of Kyushu, Kagoshima is a wonderful mix of subtropical weather, a melting pot of Asian cultures, and the site of key historical Japanese events. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, and as such, being used to many visitors, it is a spot that is open and friendly to LGBTQ+ visitors. Here are a few of the fun and fascinating things you can see and do if you visit Kagoshima.
Sakurajima
The symbol of Kagoshima, Sakurajima is an island just off of the coast of the city, and is home to one of the most active volcanos in the country. The volcano is constantly giving off smoke, and while it is illegal to go within two kilometers of the craters and their churning magma (though I can’t imagine why you would want to) there are several observation decks you can view the geological wonder from.
There are also tour buses and hiking paths, but the place that most people want to experience is the Sakurajima Magma Onsen. A small onsen that is only a few short minutes from the ferry port, it nevertheless is very popular for its wide windows that offer views of Kagoshima, as well as the hot waters themselves, infused with minerals from the volcano itself, and said to help keep skin healthy, as well as relax the bathing guests.
Sengan-en
A treasure of Japanese history, this garden was once a part of the residence of the Shimazu Clan, the ruling clan of much of southern Kyushu until the end of the Edo period in 1868.
Like much of Kagoshima, the garden itself boasts a history of cross-culture influences. It takes its name from a landmark in China, its moso bamboo comes from Okinawa (then the Ryukyu Kingdom) and it played host to a number of visiting Western dignitaries as Japan opened itself to the world around it following the end of the isolationist Sakoku era.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors can explore the grounds and get some sense of what it must have been like to be a feudal lord — even moreso if you take the opportunity to don some samurai armor, and get a shot of yourself in warrior-mode with Sakurajima in the background. Nearby, the Shoko Shuseikan Museum details this history of the Shimazu Clan, and you can also see how traditional Japanese glasswork is made at Shimadzu Satsuma Kiriko Glassworks.
The Museum of the Meiji Restoration
Kagoshima, known in the Edo period as Satsuma, was at one point both the greatest champion of the Meiji Restoration, a period when under the eponymous Emperor Meiji Japan transformed from a feudalistic hermit kingdom into a global power in the space of a few decades.
This museum covers the history of the Shimazu Clan and its role in the restoration of the Emperor as the de facto as well as de jure head of state of the newly organized Empire of Japan, as well as its defiance of laws at the time that barred non-governmental Japanese citizens to leave Japan, by dispatching students to the United Kingdom in order to obtain knowledge from abroad.
The museum has a great deal of information and exhibits dedicated to Takamori Saigo, one of the iconic heroes of this period. He was a supporter of the restoration of the Emperor, then a member of government, and finally a rebel who sought to protect the traditional Japanese society and way of life. Here, you can learn a lot about the man known as one of the most influential samurai in all of Japan.
It is perhaps best known for its theater shows, which last 25 minutes each, covering both the road to restoration and the student expedition. The shows are performed multiple times daily, and seats can be reserved.
Delicious Local Delicacies
Being as it is at a crossroads between many Asian countries, and with the Satsuma domain having developed close relations with the British after the nation opened up, the cuisine of Kagoshima is both varied and distinctive. It is perhaps best known for its “black meat trio” of black pork, black beef, and black chicken. Black pork in particular is renowned for its juicy, tender textures, and is said to have come about through the breeding of local swine with pigs brought over by the English as a gift.
For those who prefer seafood, tobiuo flying fish are a favorite among locals, and Kagoshima alone provides 20% of all the tobiuo consumed in Japan. And for those who want a sweet yet filling snack, look no further than the humble sweet potato. Known as “Satsuma Imo” in Japanese, Kagoshima is the largest producer of the popular food, and it is almost synonymous with Kagoshima. Gane is a popular way to cook sweet potato in Kagoshima, where the root vegetable is cut julienne and dipped in tempura batter before being fried. Make sure you give it a try!
LGBTQ+ Bars
Kagoshima has a smaller LGBTQ+ scene than some other cities, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t one. One of the best-known bars is Buzz-R, created by the owner, Shou, after he had gained years of experience working in gay bars in Osaka’s Doyama LGBTQ+ district. This men-only bar gets rave reviews from visitors for its friendly staff and varied drinks menu.
Bar Lollipop is a mixed- LGBTQ+ bar prides itself on being a fun space for people to recharge their mental energy. Whether you come alone or in a group, if its your first time or your hundredth, you can expect a warm welcome from the moment you walk in the door.
In Summary
Kagoshima is rich in history and in friendliness, and although it’s a popular tourist spot for many Japanese people, it’s thought of as a little off the beaten track for foreign visitors. If you get a chance, come and discover the kind people, swaying palm trees, and good food and drink that make it a haven for anyone.
