From Kagoshima to Kumamoto: A Journey Through Southern Japan
If you’re planning a trip to Japan and want to explore the southern regions of Kagoshima and Kumamoto, you’re in for a treat. These areas are rich in natural beauty, history,
and culture. This guide will help you navigate your journey using public transportation, ensuring you make the most of your time without the need for a car.
Starting Your Journey: Kagoshima Airport to Kagoshima Chuo Station
Your adventure begins at Kagoshima Airport. From here, you have two main options to reach Kagoshima Chuo Station: by train or by bus. – By Train: The Kagoshima City Tram is a convenient option. The tram ride from Kagoshima Airport to Kagoshima Chuo Station takes about 40 minutes. The trams are frequent, and the ride offers a glimpse of the city as you make your way to the station. – By Bus: Alternatively, you can take a bus from the airport to Kagoshima Chuo Station. The bus ride is slightly longer, taking about 50 minutes, but it’s a comfortable and scenic route.
Exploring Kagoshima: Sakurajima and Kirishima Onsen
Once you’ve settled in Kagoshima, it’s time to explore some of its most iconic spots. – Sakurajima: This active volcano is one of Kagoshima’s most famous landmarks. You can take a ferry from Kagoshima Port to Sakurajima, which takes about 15 minutes. Once there, you can explore the volcanic landscape, visit the Sakurajima Visitor Center, and enjoy the hot springs. – Kirishima Onsen: Known for its therapeutic hot springs, Kirishima Onsen is a must-visit. You can reach Kirishima by train from Kagoshima Chuo Station. The journey takes about an hour. The area is also known for its beautiful hiking trails and stunning views of the Kirishima mountain range.
Heading to Kumamoto: A City of History and Nature
After soaking in the beauty of Kagoshima, your next stop is Kumamoto. This city is known for its historic castle and beautiful gardens. – Kumamoto Castle: One of Japan’s most impressive castles, Kumamoto Castle is a must-see. Although parts of the castle were damaged in the 2016 earthquake, restoration efforts are ongoing, and much of the castle is open to visitors. – Suizenji Jojuen Garden: This traditional Japanese garden is a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kumamoto. The garden is designed to represent the 53 stations of the Tokaido, an ancient highway that connected Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with Kyoto.
Recommended Nearby Spots
While you’ve decided to skip Amakusa due to time constraints, there are plenty of other nearby spots worth visiting: – Aso: Known for its massive caldera and active volcano, Aso is a great day trip from Kumamoto. You can take a train from Kumamoto Station to Aso Station, which takes about 1.5 hours. The Aso area offers stunning landscapes and opportunities for hiking. – Yatsushiro: This coastal city is known for its beautiful scenery and historic sites. It’s about an hour by train from Kumamoto and offers a more relaxed pace compared to the bustling city center.
Return Trip: Departing from Kagoshima or Kumamoto Airport
For your return trip, you have the flexibility to depart from either Kagoshima Airport or Kumamoto Airport. Both airports offer domestic flights to major cities in Japan, so you can choose based on your itinerary and convenience. – Kagoshima Airport: If you choose to depart from Kagoshima, you can take a train or bus back to the airport from Kagoshima Chuo Station. – Kumamoto Airport: If you decide to fly out from Kumamoto, you can take a train or bus from Kumamoto Station to the airport. The journey takes about 30 minutes by bus.
Conclusion
Traveling from Kagoshima to Kumamoto by public transportation is not only feasible but also a rewarding experience. From the volcanic landscapes of Sakurajima to the historic grandeur of Kumamoto Castle, this journey offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re soaking in the hot springs of Kirishima or exploring the serene gardens of Kumamoto, this trip will leave you with lasting memories of southern Japan. Safe travels!
