Major Highways & Driving Tips in Kagoshima, Kagoshima, Japan
1. Kagoshima Expressway
A major highway connecting Kagoshima City with other cities in Kyushu. Offers a scenic drive along the Kagoshima Bay.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy breathtaking views of Kagoshima Bay and Sakurajima volcano
- Time Efficiency: Quickly travel between major cities in Kyushu
- Toll Roads: Expect toll fees along the way
2. Route 58
A scenic coastal road running from Kagoshima City to Amami Islands. Offers stunning ocean views and access to lesser-known attractions.
- Scenic Drive: Experience beautiful coastline and islands
- Less Touristy Attractions: Discover hidden gems along the way
- Rural Landscapes: Enjoy tranquil, rural landscapes away from city life
3. Southern Kyushu Odoriko Line
A scenic railway line running parallel to the Kagoshima Expressway. Offers panoramic views of Kagoshima Bay and Sakurajima volcano.
- Scenic Rail Journey: Enjoy stunning views from the comfort of a train
- Affordable Alternative: A more cost-effective option compared to driving on the Expressway
- Limited Schedule: Plan your trip around the Odoriko Line's operating schedule
4. Sakurajima Island
An active volcanic island located off the coast of Kagoshima City. Offers a unique driving experience with stunning views of the volcano.
- Active Volcano: Drive near an active volcano and witness occasional eruptions
- Scenic Drive: Experience stunning views of the volcano and Kagoshima Bay
- Volcanic Ash: Be aware of potential volcanic ash fall during your drive
5. Ibusuki Sunamushi Beach
A unique beach in Kagoshima where you can bury yourself in hot sand baths. Offers a relaxing and therapeutic experience.
- Hot Sand Baths: Relax in warm sand baths, improving circulation and soothing skin
- Unique Experience: Experience something you can't find elsewhere
- Limited Accessibility: Check for tide schedules and beach access points before visiting
6. Yakushima Island
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient cedar trees, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls. Offers a challenging yet rewarding driving experience.
- UNESCO Site: Explore a protected natural wonder
- Challenging Roads: Prepare for narrow, winding roads with steep inclines
- Rainforest Beauty: Experience the beauty of Japan's largest rainforest
7. Kurokawa Onsen Town
A picturesque onsen town in Kagoshima famous for its hot springs and scenic landscapes. Offers a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Relaxing Retreat: Unwind in natural hot springs surrounded by beautiful scenery
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy a scenic drive through the mountains to reach Kurokawa Onsen Town
- Limited Accommodations: Book your accommodations well in advance during peak season
8. Aira Caldera
An expansive caldera formed by the eruption of Sakurajima volcano. Offers a unique and otherworldly driving experience.
- Otherworldly Landscape: Drive through a moon-like landscape created by volcanic activity
- Active Volcano: Be aware of potential volcanic ash fall during your drive
- Limited Accessibility: Check for restricted areas and safety guidelines before visiting
9. Amami Oshima Island
An island in the Amami group known for its untouched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife. Offers a peaceful driving experience away from city life.
- Untouched Beauty: Experience pristine natural beauty far removed from tourist crowds
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy a scenic drive through lush forests and along the coastline
- Limited Infrastructure: Prepare for limited amenities and services on the island
10. Kagoshima City Skyline Drive
A drive through Kagoshima City that offers stunning views of the cityscape, harbor, and Sakurajima volcano.
- City Skyline: Enjoy panoramic views of Kagoshima City
- Volcanic Views: Take in stunning views of Sakurajima volcano
- Urban Driving Experience: Experience driving through a vibrant Japanese city
11. Tenmonkan Street
A bustling shopping street in Kagoshima City known for its local delicacies and souvenirs. Offers a unique shopping experience.
- Local Delicacies: Taste local specialties like Satsuma-age (fish cakes)
- Shopping Experience: Find unique souvenirs and gifts
- Crowded Area: Be prepared for a lively, bustling atmosphere
12. Satsuma Slope (Shiraito Falls)
A scenic drive leading to Shiraito Falls, a series of thin white waterfalls. Offers a peaceful and picturesque driving experience.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy the beauty of the Satsuma Slope and Shiraito Falls
- Natural Wonder: Experience the awe-inspiring Shiraito Falls
- Limited Parking: Find parking near the trailhead and prepare for a short walk to the falls
13. Kirishima National Park
A national park known for its majestic mountains, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. Offers a challenging yet rewarding driving experience.
- Mountain Scenery: Drive through the stunning mountain scenery
- Challenging Roads: Prepare for narrow, winding roads with steep inclines
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for deer, bears, and other wildlife
14. Tanegashima Space Center
A space center located on Tanegashima Island. Offers guided tours, museums, and rocket launches for a unique driving experience.
- Space Exploration: Learn about Japan's space exploration program
- Guided Tours: Join guided tours to learn more about the space center
- Rocket Launches: Plan your visit around scheduled rocket launches
15. Tanegashima Island Coastal Drive
A coastal drive along Tanegashima Island offering stunning views of the sea and occasional sightings of dolphins.
- Coastal Drive: Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast
- Dolphin Spotting: Keep an eye out for dolphins swimming in the sea
- Limited Infrastructure: Prepare for limited amenities and services on the island