JAL staff best picks: top 5 delicacies to buy as a gift at Kagoshima Airport

Flights to Kagoshima Airport from Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya offer views of the Kirishima Mountain Range below and close-up aerial views of Sakurajima over Kinko Bay. This is already a good introduction to the vast natural heritage of Kagoshima. Its history has also fostered an alluring cuisine. Upon arrival at Kagoshima Airport, visitors are faced with a wide range of excellent souvenirs. Here we present five of the best gifts as selected by JAL staff.
*Quotes from OnTripJAL

Kasutadon (Satsuma Jokiya)

This soft, springy sponge filled with custard cream made from Kagoshima eggs is a popular item with fans across Japan, young and old, woman or man. Take one bite to find out why this is one of Kagoshima's most classic souvenirs.

Satsuma Jokiya Karukan Honpo

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JAL staff comments

"Sweet and popular across all generations. When I buy these for my relatives outside Kagoshima they are always delighted" (ground staff, F)

"Lovely" Festivalo Karaimo No-bake Cake

Melts in your mouth like rare cheesecake and surprisingly soft. The rich flavor of karaimo (sweet potato) spreads on the palate. The caramelized finish imparts a delicate aroma, accentuating the flavor of the cake. Eating just one is difficult. You may choose to keep reaching for more.

Festivalo

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JAL staff comments

"The rich sweet potatoes are sweet and very tasty, and in addition to their round and cute appearance, they are easy to eat because they are bite-sized. Not only is this a great souvenir for someone, you will also want to take some for yourself." (ground staff, F)

Satsumadori Sable (Fugetsudo)

A light, crispy texture with slightly sweet flavor: these cookies have been loved in Kagoshima for more than a century. Accented with almonds, their beautiful flavor fills the palate and will appeal to all tastes.

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JAL staff comments

"I always take these as a present for friends outside of Kagoshima. In addition to plain flavor they also have green tea, sesame and various other flavors. The cute packaging also delights the recipient." (ground staff, M)

Segodon no Potato Chip (Honkebontando)

The historical figure Takamori Saigo is depicted on the pack, to outstanding effect! These potato chips come in a package that lets you know at a glance that it is from Kagoshima. The chips have good texture with a wave cut and are fried the old-fashioned way. The use of salt from Amami Oshima island makes the balance of sweet and salty just right! Even better, they don't skimp on the chips - this is a full packet.

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JAL staff comments

"The wave-cut texture and perfect saltiness are delicious, but the package is the most memorable thing. You could even use it as a mask" (Admin, M)

Satsuma-age, one of Kagoshima's most famous foods

Satsuma-age, a flavored fish cake fried in oil, is one of Kagoshima's most famous foods. A range of varieties are offered by souvenir shops at the airport, with ingredients including vegetables, potherbs and seafood, so explore and find the one you like best.