26 May 2025
The weather in Kyushu has been kind to us so far—cool breezes, not too chilly, with only a few days of rain. But weather is just nature doing its thing, right?
🚍 Collecting Manhole Cards & Hopping on the Sightseeing Bus
This morning’s plan was to visit Sakurajima, the iconic volcanic island. We first stopped by the tourism center to collect (yes!) another manhole card and bought a bus pass that included discounts for some attractions. The sightseeing bus wound slowly through the city, stopping mostly at tourist spots. Since we only had one day in Kagoshima and Sakurajima was our priority, we stayed on board and just enjoyed the views.
⛴️ Ferry to Sakurajima: Sailing Toward the Volcano
About 45 minutes later, we reached the ferry terminal. We hadn’t come across any good breakfast spots earlier, so I just grabbed a coffee before boarding. The ferry ride was soothing, though I noticed Kagoshima felt a little grey. Locals say that when the wind blows inland, volcanic ash from Sakurajima covers the city—maybe that explains the pale colors. Still, the seafront view was lovely.
On the island, we used the bus (covered by our pass) to circle around different observation points. Most stops were quick—just enough time to take in the smoking craters. To be honest, it wasn’t “pretty” in the conventional sense: mostly rugged rock and white smoke. But the thought of standing before one of nature’s most powerful forces was awe-inspiring. And of course, joking with my travel companion about needing to run if it erupted added to the thrill.
🍦 Ice Cream, Souvenirs & Grilled Chicken
After completing the bus loop, we browsed the rest stop for souvenirs (lots of variety, though we didn’t buy any), treated ourselves to ice cream, and enjoyed grilled chicken from a friendly elderly couple outside.
🏛️ Back on the Mainland: The Meiji Restoration Museum
Back on the mainland, hunger finally caught up with us. We wandered around the shopping streets looking for food, grabbed another manhole card, and then visited the Meiji Restoration Museum. I had studied the Meiji Restoration a little back in university, so the exhibits felt familiar. The museum explained the history thoroughly, with shows and displays that highlighted Kagoshima’s central role. It was a turbulent yet fascinating time in Japan’s past, and this museum does justice to the subject. I regret not taking more photos—fatigue was catching up, and I felt a bit sleepy.
🥩 A Yakiniku Feast to End the Day
For our final dinner in Kagoshima, we splurged on yakiniku, featuring Kurobuta pork and wagyu. Pricey, but absolutely worth it.
Maybe because our accommodation was outside the city center, or maybe because Kagoshima is a larger city, I didn’t find it as walkable or easygoing as some smaller towns. Still, it has its own charm—and given the chance, I wouldn’t mind staying a few more days to explore it better.
Transport
For getting around Kagoshima and Sakurajima, we used the CUTE one-day pass. It covers unlimited rides on the city trams, buses (including the City View and Sakurajima Island View routes), and the ferry between the mainland and Sakurajima. The pass costs ¥1,300 for adults and ¥650 for children, and also comes with small discounts for several attractions like Sengan-en, Io World Aquarium, and the Meiji Restoration Museum. You can buy it at tourist information centers around Kagoshima, such as at Kagoshima-Chuo Station, Tenmonkan, or Sakurajima. It’s a convenient option if you’re planning to explore both sides in a day.
👉 A complete 38-day Japan itinerary, including Nakasendo walking, Kumano Kodo hiking, Shimanami Kaido cycling, and a Kyushu road trip.
👉 Guide and tips for collecting Manhole Cards across Japan — click here to read more.
👉 Don’t miss Japan’s postcard-sending experience — read the full guide here.
👉 10 standout food experiences worth seeking out – Japan Foodie Map: My Top 10 Meals Across Japan
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