The Ultimate Guide to Spring Blossoms in Kagoshima City! Find Your Next Cherry Blossom Viewing Spot!

Cherry blossoms are a timeless favorite in Japan, and Kagoshima City has its fair share of stunning spots to enjoy them! But wait - there’s more! Did you know that there are plenty of other must-see floral spring spots scattered throughout the area? Plus, make your journey even sweeter with a stop at chic cafes, cozy restaurants, and nearby attractions along the way. Read on to find out more!

Experience the Charm of Cherry Blossoms in a Historic 17th Century Garden: Sengan-en

Step into history at Sengan-en, a villa built in 1658 by Mitsuhisa, the 19th head of the Shimadzu family, offering breathtaking views of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay. From early February to April, around 150 cherry trees, including Kanhi-zakura and Gantan-zakura, bloom in a scenic display.

Stores within the Park

Sengan-en Saryo

Experience Kagoshima’s finest teas and sweets at a traditional Japanese cafe nestled within Sengan-en. Delight in local specialties such as matcha and sencha, sweet potato treats, the iconic Karukan confectionary, and the famous Shirokuma frozen dessert, all while enjoying the serene view of the cafe’s secret miniature garden.
Sengan-en Saryo (Official Website)
Jambo Mochi Shop

If you visit Sengan-en, don’t miss the chance to indulge in Kagoshima’s local specialties. The Jambo Mochi is a simple yet delicious bite-sized treat consisting of sweet and salty rice cakes skewered on two sticks. This simple yet tasty snack has been a beloved staple of Satsuma samurai since the Edo period in the 17th century.
Jambo Mochi Shop (Official Website)

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Starbucks Coffee - Kagoshima Sengan-en

Located next to Sengan-en, this one-of-a-kind Starbucks is housed in a registered tangible cultural property – a renovated Western-style building that was once the Serigano Shimadzu Family Mining Office. Enjoy a delightful coffee break while immersing yourself in the architecture’s rich history.

Starbucks Coffee - Kagoshima Sengan-en

Take a Leisurely Stroll Along the Cherry Blossom-Lined Banks of the Kotsuki River

The banks of the Kotsuki River, winding through the heart of Kagoshima City, are home to a picturesque promenade lined with around 500 cherry trees. The area is illuminated until 10pm, allowing visitors to enjoy the magical sight of cherry blossoms at night. Additionally, the Ki-ichi market held in the spring and fall on the left bank green space offers bonsai, flowers, fruit trees, and more for sale.

The Kotsuki River Bank

Kurozu Farm CAFE AND MARKET

Sakamoto’s Kurozu (black vinegar), made using traditional methods dating back to the Edo period, has been a staple of health for the people of Kagoshima. At this spot, you can shop for a variety of black vinegar products and enjoy original drinks and sweets in the cozy cafe space.
Kurozu Farm CAFE AND MARKET
Ichiniisan Kagoshima Honten

Discover the flavors of Kagoshima at this Kurobuta pork specialty restaurant! Don’t miss their signature Kurobuta Shabu-shabu served with soba soup - a first in Japan - and a menu filled with local specialties like Wagyu beef and kibinago (silver-stripe round herring).
Ichiniisan Kagoshima Honten
Kagomma Furusato Yataimura

Calling all drink lovers! The Kagomma Furusato Yataimura’s Buschika Area is your go-to spot for barhopping between cozy eateries serving Kagoshima’s local dishes, paired with original shochu, beer, and wine. The best part? Many places are open for lunch, too!
Kagomma Furusato Yataimura Buschika Area

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Museum of the Meiji Restoration

Step into history at this fascinating site, where you can explore Satsuma’s role in the late Edo period and the Meiji Restoration. The facility also showcases exhibits from popular Taiga dramas like Segodon and Atsuhime. Enjoy easy navigation with multilingual guide devices in English, Korean, and both Traditional and Simplified Chinese.

Museum of the Meiji Restoration

Experience the Perfect Juxtaposition of Vibrant Pink Blossoms and the Grand Kagoshima Castle Goromon Gate!

Kagoshima Castle (Tsurumaru Castle), built by Shimadzu Iehisa, the first Satsuma lord, features a mountain fortress and a residence at its base. Walk through the grand Goromon Gate - Japan's largest castle gate restored in 2020 - and immerse yourself in the fantastic cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Kagoshima (Tsurumaru) Castle Ruins (Goromon Gate)

CHIN JUKAN POTTERY CAFE

After strolling through the expansive grounds, unwind at the cafe and museum shop on the first floor of Reimeikan, where you can enjoy desserts served in beautiful Satsuma CHIN JUKAN POTTERY. Perfect for snapping that Instagram-worthy shot!
CHIN JUKAN POTTERY CAFE

Yoshino Park’s Cherry Blossom Festival

Perched at an elevation of 234 meters, Yoshino Park offers stunning views of Sakurajima, the distant Kirishima Mountains, and Mount Kaimon, making it a perfect spot to enjoy flowers throughout the year. From mid to late February, the vibrant Kawazu cherry blossoms bloom, while from mid-March to early April, the iconic Somei Yoshino cherry trees take center stage. When the Somei Yoshino are at their peak, the Yoshino Park Cherry Blossom Festival is held, featuring food trucks and various vendors to add to the lively atmosphere.

Situated 8 kilometers northeast of downtown Kagoshima, Yoshino Park is easy to visit even without a car. While bus service (N4, bound for Yoshino Golf Course) from Kagoshima Chuo Station runs on a limited schedule, it offers a convenient option for reaching the park.

Yoshino Park

Cherry Blossoms Are Not the Only Flowers That Bloom in Kagoshima During Spring!

Situated 8 kilometers northeast of downtown Kagoshima, Yoshino Park is easy to visit even without a car. While bus service (N4, bound for Yoshino Golf Course) from Kagoshima Chuo Station runs on a limited schedule, it offers a convenient option for reaching the park.Beyond cherry blossoms, Kagoshima also boasts other beautiful spots where you can enjoy flowers that evoke the essence of spring. One such place is the Kagoshima City Urban Agriculture Center in Inuzako Town, located about 12 kilometers northwest of the city center. Here, you'll find an expansive flower bed spanning 8,000 square meters, brimming with vibrant rape blossoms in spring. Since the location is slightly farther from the city center, renting a car is highly recommended for easy access.

Kagoshima City Urban Agriculture Center

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Gentle Reminders for Enjoying the Cherry Blossoms Together

Cherry blossom viewing is a cherished experience for everyone, so let’s make it enjoyable for all. Please be kind to the blossoms - admire their beauty without picking petals or breaking branches. Keep it peaceful - speak softly and avoid loud noises to respect others nearby. Take care of the space - remember to bring your trash home with you. By following these guidelines, we can all share the joy of spring.