Spots List

Nishihira Shuzo Co., Ltd.

Nishihira Shuzo Co., Ltd.

Situated in the heart of Naze in Amami City on Amami Oshima, "Nishihira Shuzo" is a prestigious, historic brown sugar shochu craft distillery founded in 1925, beautifully preserving old-world mashing methods while implementing unique, creative styles like playing classical music to mature spirits. Nurtured by the island's natural bounty, the authentic shochu crafted from pure local sugarcane and clear spring water radiates a rich, rum-like aroma and a mellow, gentle sweetness. Led by a highly skilled female master artisan (Toji), the tour allowing visitors to closely observe the meticulous traditional "Kametsubo" clay pot mashing is highly acclaimed by international visitors....

Kagoshima
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Satsuma Shuzo Hanawatari-gawa Distillery Meijigura

Satsuma Shuzo Hanawatari-gawa Distillery Meijigura

Situated in Makurazaki City, "Satsuma Shuzo Meijigura" is a beautiful, prestigious historic distillery using a现役 traditional black-plastered wooden architecture preserved since the Meiji period, revered globally as the sacred home of authentic sweet potato shochu. Breaking away from mechanized modern factories, skilled master artisans (Toji) here utilize 100-year-old traditional methods—including handmade koji preparation and robust fermentation inside massive "Kametsubo" clay pots—allowing international tourists to observe historic craftsmanship at close range. The air inside the distillery is filled with the sweet aroma of peak-season sweet potatoes, and after the tour, visitors can luxuriously taste and purchase exceptional, distillery-exclusive raw spirits. It...

Kagoshima
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shochu Kura Satsuma Kinzangura

Shochu Kura Satsuma Kinzangura

Situated in Ichikikushikino City, "Shochu Gura Satsuma Kinzangura" is an exceptionally unique, creative historical attraction globally where a real gold mine (gold mine pit) that once supported the prosperity of Satsuma was boldly renovated to craft authentic sweet potato shochu. The absolute marvel for international tourists is an adventurous experience boarding a real mining trolley train that takes passengers deep underground into a pleasantly cool, dim mine tunnel. Maintained at a perfectly constant temperature year-round, visitors can observe traditional handmade koji preparation and robust mashing methods inside massive "Kametsubo" clay pots, highlighting Japan's superb fermentation culture. It stands as an...

Kagoshima
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Mars Tsunuki Distillery

Mars Tsunuki Distillery

Cradled within a deep, nature-rich mountain basin in Minamisatsuma City, the "Mars Tsunuki Distillery" is mainland Japan's southernmost whisky distillery, standing as a legendary sanctuary for global whisky hobbyists worldwide who gather to touch premium Japanese whisky matured in a rich basin climate and aged using pure mountain spring water. The photogenic grounds beautifully interlace historic red-brick aging cellars built during the Taisho era, ancient stone storehouses, and state-of-the-art distillation facilities, allowing visitors to thoroughly observe the meticulous mashing and artisan crafting methods. The adjacent "Hombo Jozo Former Residence," a gorgeous traditional Japanese mansion turned vintage cafe, allows visitors to...

Kagoshima
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kanosuke Distillery

Kanosuke Distillery

Standing along the scenic coastal dunes of Fukiagehama in Hioki City, the "Kanosuke Distillery" is a cutting-edge, world-classジャパニーズ・クラフトウイスキー destination facing the grand East China Sea, heavily drawing hot attention from global whisky connoisseurs. Inside the beautifully designed, modern wooden architecture, international visitors can closely observe the skilled distillation craftsmanship where artisans utilize three distinct copper pot stills to create premium single malt whisky boasting a rich aroma and deep flavor. The absolute highlight of the facility is "THE MELLOW BAR," a premium tasting bar featuring a massive, all-glass wall. Gaze through the window at dusk as a stunning sunset quietly...

Kagoshima
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tonmy Market

Situated in Nishinoomote City on Tanegashima Island, the "Tonmy Market" is a highly popular, energetic local street market (direct sales office) where all the delicious ingredients nurtured by the island's rich southern nature and its vibrant, warm atmosphere are compactly condensed. Inside the lively facility, premium regional products are stacked in abundance, including freshly harvested, intensely sweet brand-name "Anno-imo" sweet potatoes, tropical citrus fruits, ocean-fresh seafood caught in nearby waters, and handmade regional confectionery. Its standout draw is that visitors can directly touch the island's deep, friendly culture through casual, warm conversations with the local people ("Tonmy" means friend in...

Kagoshima
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Nishinoomote City

Nishinoomote City

Situated on the northern part of Tanegashima Island, "Nishinoomote City" is the island's vibrant cultural and administrative hub, functioning as a bustling harbor town where high-speed hydrofoil liners and ferries regularly traverse. Internationally renowned as the historical site where Portuguese voyagers introduced firearms to Japan in 1543, deep historical samurai romance breathes throughout the city, from the stately "Gessotei" samurai villa to the "Teppokan" gun museum. Simultaneously, the city boasts exceptional natural settings like the crystal-clear emerald-green waters of "Urata Beach" which continuously captivates beach lovers worldwide. Packed with regional delicacies including contract-fresh seafood and specialty frog crabs, it is...

Kagoshima
Area Info
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Yakushima Kayak Tour KAZE

Yakushima Kayak Tour KAZE

Based on the island of Yakushima, "Yakushima Kayak Tour KAZE" is an outdoor professional organization providing top-tier, authentic canoeing and kayaking adventures along the crystal-clear "Anbo River"—fed by the World Natural Heritage mountains—and the grand waters of the Pacific Ocean. Paddling along a lush green V-shaped valley while absorbing the soothing murmur of the river and the chirping of wild birds amidst outstanding clarity—where you can clearly see every stone on the riverbed—is pure thrill. Backed by highly experienced, friendly international guides providing attentive assistance in English, active global visitors can explore safely and securely, revered as a premier adventure...

Kagoshima
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tanegashima Mangrove Park

Tanegashima Mangrove Park

Flowing through Minamitane Town on Tanegashima Island, the "Tanegashima Mangrove Park" is situated along the mouth of the Oura River, boasting one of Japan's largest native habitats for Kandelia obovata (Mehirgi mangrove trees) and serving as a highly popular ecotourism destination to delightfully learn about the pristine coastal marine ecosystem through all five senses. The signature appeal here is a river kayaking or canoeing exploration tour quietly navigated through mysterious jungle waterways that continuously alter their expressions based on the tide, immensely popular among international visitors. Floating over peaceful, pure waters allows you to safely observe lush tropical flora, rare...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

sankara hotel&spa Yakushima

sankara hotel&spa Yakushima

Perched on a lush green hill in the southeastern part of Yakushima Island, "sankara hotel & spa 屋久島" is a world-class luxury asian-french eco-resort highly acclaimed by global high-end travelers, offering magnificent, unobstructed views of the vast Pacific Ocean. Sprawling across an area surrounded by deep subtropical primeval forests, premium and sophisticated luxury villas are scattered to provide the ultimate relaxation and private sanctuary. The infinity pool landscape seamlessly connecting to the ocean and top-tier Ayurveda spa treatments offer blissful, restorative healing. Celebrating local bounty, the exquisite French fine dining prepared with fresh, peak-season ingredients is spectacular, serving as an...

Kagoshima
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Seibu Rindo Forest Path

Seibu Rindo Forest Path

Situated in the western part of Yakushima, the "Seibu Line Forest Road (Seibu Rindo)" is a globally rare, dynamic scenic drive where visitors can pass through an untouched, dense subtropical primeval forest that stretches vertically from the coastline to the mountain peaks within the core World Natural Heritage registered zone. There are zero artificial utility poles or buildings here, revealing an extraordinary, peerless panoramic landscape that looks entirely like a magnificent green tunnel. Its standout highlight is that wild Yaku deer and Yaku monkeys—endemic species unique to the island—can be observed closely on a daily basis as they peacefully groom...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Yakushima Airport

Yakushima Airport

Situated on the eastern coast of Yakushima Island, "Yakushima Airport" is a remarkably peaceful, cozy, and welcoming marine gateway welcoming domestic and international travelers visiting the mysterious island. Arriving at the compact, rustic passenger terminal building—which echoes a beautifully nostalgic wooden architectural charm—instantly rewards you with a refreshing tropical breeze and a grand view of the World Natural Heritage emerald mountains towering in the background. The facility hosts a cozy gift shop packed with regional specialty products alongside a friendly tourist information desk offering the latest trail updates. Free from the clutter of urban noise, a tranquil island pace flows...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Jomon Sugi

Standing strictly and majestically deep within the pristine, primitive forests of Yakushima, the "Jomon Sugi" is a world-class giant cedar tree estimated to be over 3,000 years old (with some theories stretching to 7,000 years), serving as the ultimate symbol of the World Natural Heritage island's overwhelming life force. Rising to a height of about 25 meters with a trunk circumference exceeding 16 meters, its rugged yet sacred presence exudes a god-like dignity, wrapping anyone who stands before it in absolute awe and deep silence. The arduous yet beautiful full-scale hiking and trekking journey—taking about 10 hours round-trip over 22...

Kagoshima
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tanegashima Space Center Space Science and Technology Museum

Tanegashima Space Center Space Science and Technology Museum

Situated within the expansive grounds of the Tanegashima Space Center on Tanegashima Island, acclaimed as the world's most beautiful rocket launch site, the "Space Science Museum" is a cutting-edge, experiential museum where visitors can touch the absolute forefront of Japan's space exploration. The museum features highly popular futuristic exhibits for international tourists looking to experience cosmic historical romance, including full-scale rocket models and an incredibly detailed, actual-size model of the International Space Station. It also hosts a mini-theater showing powerful rocket launch videos on a large screen, alongside a well-curated gift shop packed with unique cosmic goods like real space...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Yakushima Tourism Center

Yakushima Tourism Center

Located within walking distance from Miyanoura Port on Yakushima Island, the "Yakushima Sightseeing Center" is a highly popular, expansive comprehensive travel hub where all tourist conveniences and deep local charms are pleasantly condensed. The vast facility features a stylish souvenir section brimming with traditional Yakusugi cedar wood crafts, regional Tankan citrus sweets, and authentic sweet potato shochu. Additionally, the onsite restaurant is highly acclaimed by international foodies for its exquisite local gourmet dishes, including a signature presentation where fresh, locally caught flying fish is deeply fried whole. Offering friendly travel guidance alongside high-level rental gear for hiking and trekking, it...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Onoaida Onsen

Boasting a rich history spanning over 350 years, "Onoaida Onsen" is a rustic, historic communal natural hot spring nestled at the foot of the majestic Mt. Mochomu in the southern part of Yakushima, deeply loved by locals since ancient times. Its standout gemstone quality is that the 100% pure, free-flowing hot sulfur spring water emerges dynamically right from between the stones at the bottom of the bath, highly captivating international spa enthusiasts with its authentic mineral richness. The retro, nostalgic wooden structure exudes an incredible old-world charm, filled with the warm, friendly daily conversations of the islanders. Serving as a...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Yakusugi Land

Sprawling across a high-altitude area reaching 1,000 to 1,300 meters in the eastern part of Yakushima, "Yakusugi Land" is a vast, natural recreation forest wilderness where everyone from beginners to seasoned hikers can safely and easily trek through the island's World Natural Heritage forest ecosystem. The expansive grounds are dotted with massive, ancient Yakusugi cedar trees radiating an overwhelming presence—such as the "Buddha Sugi" and the "Kuguri Sugi"—walking through which wraps visitors in deep emotion, as if stepping into the mystical world of a fantasy film. Beautiful wooden suspension bridges and clean walking paths are excellently developed, letting visitors fully...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Nishinoomote Port

Nishinoomote Port

Situated on the northern part of Tanegashima Island, "Nishinoomote Port" is the island's vibrant marine gateway, dynamically bustling with high-speed hydrofoil liners and ferries arriving from Kagoshima Port and Yakushima Island. The moment visitors land, a refreshing, tropical southern sea breeze and an endlessly spreading blue sky and sea warmly welcome travelers. The surrounding area compactly gathers a stylish tourist information center, car rental shops, and retro local restaurants serving fresh caught seafood, offering extreme convenience as a base for starting and ending island travels. At dusk, a magnificent panorama opens up where you can gaze over a beautiful sunset...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Urata Beach

Situated at the northernmost tip of Tanegashima Island in Nishinoomote City, "Urata Beach" (Urata Kaisuyokujo) is a gorgeous, hidden resort beach nestled inside a deeply indented bay, selected among Japan's Top 100 Swimming Beaches. The defining appeal of this beach is its emerald-green sea, boasting an outstanding transparency akin to crystal glass. Because it is surrounded by lush green capes forming a shape like a natural, calm harbor, the waves are remarkably peaceful, allowing international beach lovers to safely and securely enjoy marine activities like snorkeling, SUP, and sea kayaking. Excellently equipped with stylish camping grounds and clean shower facilities,...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shima no Kaori Lab Yawaraka

Shima no Kaori Lab Yawaraka

Situated on Yakushima Island, "Shima no Kaori Lab Yawarako" is a highly creative, experiential atelier boutique that carefully distills 100% pure, natural organic essential oils using clear spring water, utilizing locally sourced materials like "Jisugi" (cedar wood reflecting the bounty of Yakushima cedar) and regional citrus peels. Entering the stylish interior wraps visitors in an aromatic, refreshing scent of cedar that coaxes a deep breath. International tourists can closely observe the delicate distillation process and enjoy highly popular workshops to craft their own customized, original aroma sprays. It serves as an excellent cultural spot where you can carry home Yakushima's...

Kagoshima
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ota Hego Forest

Ota Hego Forest

Situated in Setouchi Town on Amami Oshima, the "Ota Tree-Fern Cluster (Ota Hego Jisei Gunraku)" is one of Japan's largest native habitats of "Hikagehego" (giant flying spider-monkey tree ferns), sprawling inside a deep mountain valley that formed the core of the World Natural Heritage site. Living fossils reaching heights of several meters form a multi-layered canopy that blocks out the sunlight, opening up a dynamic, extraordinary panorama the moment you step inside—as if you have strayed into a prehistoric dinosaur era or a deep jungle. Ecotours strolling through the quiet space while listening to the wild chirping of birds are...

Kagoshima
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ajidokoro Imoto

Ajidokoro Imoto

Situated in Nishinoomote City on Tanegashima Island, "Ajidokoro Imoto" is a highly popular traditional Japanese restaurant where contract foodies and locals gather, allowing visitors to luxuriously indulge in regional dishes nurtured by rich nature and fresh seafood caught in the nearby waters of Tanegashima. Its high-level local gourmet delicacies—including famed fresh Mizuika (broadclub cuttlefish) sashimi, specialty local "Asahi-gani" red frogs crabs, and perfectly deep-fried "Nagarame" (small abalone)—are highly praised by international travelers. The wooden, calm Japanese interior is exceptionally comfortable, pairing excellently with authentic sweet potato shochu unique to the island. Embraced by friendly, warm local hospitality, it is an...

Kagoshima
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tanegashima Development Center Teppo-kan

Tanegashima Development Center Teppo-kan

Situated in Nishinoomote City on Tanegashima Island, the "Tanegashima Development Comprehensive Center Teppokan" is a comprehensive historical museum showcasing the island's rich history and culture, featuring a beautiful architecture styled after a Portuguese passenger ship. Its absolute cornerstone is its well-curated exhibits displaying actual, authentic matchlock muskets (Tanegashima guns) that arrived on the island in 1543 and drastically altered the turbulent history of Japanese samurai, alongside a valuable collection of ancient firearms from around the globe. Offering clear explanations in English for international visitors, it stands as a highly rated destination to spark intellectual curiosity. Visitors can directly touch the...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tanegashima-Yakushima High-speed Boat Toppy & Rocket

Tanegashima-Yakushima High-speed Boat Toppy & Rocket

Connecting Kagoshima Port, Tanegashima Island, and Yakushima Island dynamically, the "Tane-Yaku Jetfoil Toppy & Rocket" is a high-speed hydrofoil liner that darts across the open sea like skimming water at an astonishing speed of about 80 kilometers per hour. The greatest marvel of this vessel is that the entire hull lifts completely above the sea surface during navigation, allowing passengers to travel across the emerald-green ocean in extreme comfort and safety with almost zero wave-induced swaying. Looking out from the large windows rewards you with wide panoramas of the vast Pacific, and luckier travelers might even spot wild dolphins swimming...

Kagoshima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter