Highlights
Expert guide
Alex possesses an in-depth knowledge of the traditional culture of the Kagoshima region and will enrich your visit with stories and a deep cultural understanding
Unparalleled access
This adventure grants access to areas, from shrines to historic distilleries, that are not open to the general public.
Natural beauty
The volcanic landscape of Kagoshima is one of the most spectacular in Japan. Explore by both hiking and sea kayaking.
About
Positioned at the southernmost tip of Kyushu, Kagoshima holds a unique place in the cultural and historical tapestry of Japan. This adventure is designed to explore that rich heritage from many angles.
For the first two nights, you will stay at a beautiful traditional inn by a river, and from there you will embark on two full days of fully guided cultural and outdoor activities.
- Three nights of accommodations
- Lunch and dinner on day 2 and day 3
- Guided activities and experiences by local expert guide
- All transportation
Kagoshima, Kyushu
Kagoshima’s vast expanse stretches over 600 kilometers from north to south, encompassing a wide variety of landscapes, including volcanic mountain ranges, numerous islands, and vast oceanic territories. This geographical diversity contributes to Kagoshima's unique cultural and natural heritage.
Despite its geographical remoteness, it has been a pivotal crossroads for cultural exchange and trade, connecting Japan with the broader Asian continent and creating a melting pot of diverse influences.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at Kagoshima
Your guide will pick you up at Kagoshima airport and take you to your luxurious accommodations for the next two days, a traditional inn of thatched roof structures with natural rock onsens.
Day 2: Kirishima Shrine and Hiking
Meet your guide in the morning and embark on a full day of excursions which begins at Kirishima Shrine, one of the most revered shrines in Japan. You can enter the sacred inner sanctum, a national treasure inaccessible to the public. Then experience the stunning natural beauty of Kirishima in Kagoshima, Japan, with a guided hiking tour of Mount Takachiho.
Day 3: Distillery Visit and Sea Kayaking
This morning’s activity is a visit to a family-owned craft shochu distillery hidden deep in the Kirishima mountains. The distillery is closed to the public, and a visit must be specially arranged in advance. Then see another side of Kagoshima by sea kayaking around an active volcano and visiting a small, uninhabited island.
Day 4: Depart from Kagoshima
In the morning you will have free time to walk around the city and your guide will take you to Kagoshima airport for your departure.
Guide
ALEX
Alex is a samurai culture expert with unparalleled access to the traditional culture of the Kagoshima region. He dedicated the last 25 years of his life to traditional Japanese swordsmanship and has lived in Kagoshima, Japan, for almost 20 years. Fluent in Japanese, Alex has also spent many years studying calligraphy, zazen, and many other aspects of traditional Japanese culture.
Accommodations
Gajoen, nestled in a tranquil setting by the Amorigawa River, offers an authentic Japanese inn experience reminiscent of a traditional village. The inn features charming thatched structures alongside natural onsen baths carved from rock, providing a harmonious blend of nature and comfort.
The final night is at the Sheraton Kagoshima with breathtaking views of Mount Sakurajima and the bay. This hotel is the first in a new direction for Sheraton globally, with public spaces inspired by local crafts. Newly opened in 2023.
Send us an inquiry and we can began a conversation to design your next outdoor adventure in Japan.
