Kagoshima

Amami Oshima Island (Amami Oshima)

The largest island of the Amami Islands, this mountainous island also has a coral reef on its north coast, spectacular and beautiful diving sites in the Oshima Strait, groves of palms and plantains, and a fine subtropical climate. It is the northernmost island of the Ryukyu cultural area and is famous for its Oshima pongee.

Yakushima Island (Yakushima)

A botanist's paradise, this island contains a wide variety of ecological zones, from the tropical at sea level to the alpine on the numerous mountain peaks. Its isolation has allowed the natural environment of antiquity to be preserved; the most famous resident of the island is the Jomon Cedar, thought to be some 5,000 years old. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lake Ikeda (Ikedako)

This lovely lake is the largest lake in Kyushu, situated on the Ibusuki Peninsula in southern Kagoshima Prefecture. The soaring perfection of Mt. Kaimon is mirrored in its waters, and it is said to be home to a monster, a giant eel.

Ibusuki Spa (Ibusuki Onsen)

Hotsprings warming beach sand, providing a nice, steamy sand sauna, are found only at this spa. While relaxing in these wonderful sand baths, one is lulled by the gentle sound of waves and enchanted by the beauty of the coastline of the Ibusuki Peninsula, the southern leg of Kagoshima Prefecture.