Kagoshima Prefecture: Six Spots to Enjoy Sightseeing and Shopping

Table of Contents

1. Kirishima Hot Springs
2. Tenmonkan
3. Frespo Jungle Park/Sports Depo Frespo Jungle Park
4. GOLF5 Kagoshima Yojiro Store
5. Nangoku Country Club
6. Yojirogahama Waterway

A Trove of Attractive Spots in Kagoshima Prefecture

Sakurajima, the symbol of Kagoshima/Photo by Pixta

When asked about Kagoshima, many people will think of the grand Sakurajima. But the prefecture has many appeals besides the volcano.

Many visitors from all over the world are fascinated by the prefecture's natural resources, unique history, and fine food.

They can enjoy onsen (hot spring), shopping, and outdoor activities at Kagoshima. This article is about six sightseeing spots, which are also popular to the locals, that will make for a wondrous and memorable trip to the prefecture. 

1. Kirishima Hot Springs

Maruo Falls at Kirishima Hot Springs/Photo by Pixta

Onsen enthusiasts should not miss Kirishima Hot Springs. Surrounded by nature, the resort offers various types of springs.

There are springs containing sulpher, alum, and iron, respectively, each with its own effect, which works on both the body and mind. At the end of the day, many local residents drop by to bathe and relax.

Kirishima Hot Springs

Takachiho, Makizono-cho, Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, 899-660...

Kirishima Onsenkyo is the collective name for nine hot springs that are spread out between 600m and 850m above sea level. It has a wide variety of springs with rich health benefits, and there are many sights to see nearby, such as Nunobiki Falls and Senjojiki. There are many inns and hotels, and it is a popular base for exploring the Kirishima area.

2. Tenmonkan

Those who wish to feel the vibrant atmosphere exuded by the local residents should visit Tenmonkan.

Located in the central area, this is the busiest commercial district in Kagoshima City. In the Edo Period, the Satsuma Domain (*1) established the Meiji-kan (*2) nearby, which led to the area being named Tenmonkan ("planetarium" in Japanese).

There are department stores, shopping streets, restaurants, and cafes, creating a lively air. This is the place to look for the latest trend in fashion, or taste authentic Kagoshima cuisine, frequented by both locals and visitors.

*1: The domain which ruled the present-day Kagoshima Prefecture in the Edo Period.
*2: An institute to study astronomy and the calendar, founded by the Satsuma Domain in the Edo Period.

Tenmonkan Shopping Street

Higashisengokucho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture

This area is a collective term for Kagoshima's most central business and entertainment district, made up of multiple shopping streets.

3. Frespo Jungle Park/Sports Depo Frespo Jungle Park

Frespo Jungle Park is a popular shopping mall, with a supermarket, general merchandise stores, and restaurants.

Sports Depo Frespo Jungle Park, located on the first floor, is the largest sporting goods store in the prefecture, and one of the largest of its kind in Japan.

Along with sporting goods, the store handles limited collaboration products with major fashion brands, clothes for everyday use, children's clothing, and outdoor gear. It offers a wide variety of products, for every generation.

There is also a duty-free service for visitors from abroad. With Alpen's duty-free discount coupon, customers can enjoy budget-friendly shopping.

Recommended Sections at Sports Depo

3-1. Sports Shoes

The popular running shoes section stands out in the spacious store.

At stores in major cities, popular trending brands such as On or HOKA may be sold out, or limited to certain sizes. But Sports Depo at Frespo Jungle Park offers a wide variety of products in an ample setting.

3-2. An Alpen Exclusive! Nike Ramen and Tapioca T-Shirts

Picture courtesy of Alpen

The store also carries various daily use clothing by Nike, along with sporting goods.

In Japan, graphic T-shirts with a ramen or a tapioca motif can only be purchased at Sport Depo or Alpen. They are fit for both daily use and sports.

3-3. Basketball Shoes

The basketball shoes section is also popular.

A full lineup of Air Jordan, a favored brand, greets the customers.

3-4. Outdoor Gear

One of the appeals of the store is its outdoor gear section.

A wide variety of camping gears, such as tents and sleeping bags by Snow Peak, a famous camping gear brand, are fully displayed on the spacious floor.

3-5. Whey Protein

Due to the current fitness trend, interest in protein is growing, and whey protein products have become popular to visitors from abroad.

The store displays diverse types of products, so training buffs might have a hard time deciding which item to buy.

Japanese products offer a wide variety of flavors. Compared to Western products, they are not so sweet, and dissolves easily in water, making them easy to drink.

Savas, the most famous Japanese product, can be purchased at an affordable price, owing to the prevailing exchange rate. With a purchase of more than 5,500 yen, duty-free discount will also be applied, making it even more affordable.

3-6. Bags

Sports Depo is the place to look for functional and well-designed bags. The bag section occupies a wall on the right side of the facility.

With bags for both outdoors and daily use, there should be an item for everyone.

Get a Discount with Duty-Free!

Alpen offers a special discount coupon, which can be used at Sports Depo Frespo Jungle Park in Kagoshima and stores in other prefectues.

If the requirements are met, it can be used on purchases over 5,500 yen.

Sports Depot Frespo Jungle Park Store

1-11-1 Yojiro, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, 890-0062

Located inside Frespo Jungle Park, this is Japan's largest sports shop, stocking a wide variety of sporting goods for all seasons in one of Japan's largest sales floors.

4. GOLF5 Kagoshima Yojiro Store

For golfers, GOLF5 Kagoshima Yojiro Store is a must-visit destination.

The store is only a 3-minute walk away from Sports Depo Frespo Jungle Park, making it easy to visit on the same trip.

A wide array of gear for all golfers, from beginners to experts, is displayed in the store.

Those who are interested in the sport should make a visit. You might even find your favorite product here. 

Majesty Golf

Majesty is a golf club brand, finely crafted with exquisite artisanal skill and high-quality materials, and coveted by all.

GOLF5 Kagoshima Yojiro Store carries Majesty clubs, and also offers duty-free service.

There will be a 10 percent discount with the service, which makes higher priced golf clubs even more affordable, compared to purchasing it overseas.

Used Clubs

The store also has a used club section. All items are examined by experts, and in good condition, so customers need not to worry.

Although the used clubs are priced moderately, there is no problem with their quality.

Golf Wear

As golfing places importance on manners, there are dress codes at most courses. Comfortable, airy clothing will be required to spend long hours playing a game outdoors.

GOLF5 Kagoshima Yojiro Store boasts a wide array of such kind of golf wear. They are produced with the latest technology, and can be chosen according to the purpose or style.

Demo Section

Those looking for an ideal golf club should try the store's demo section.

A three-way camera will capture the player's movements and calculate the trajectory of the test shot from the angle of impact. There is no charge for the trial, which employs state of the art technology.

If there is a club that piques your interest, do try a demo before the purchase.

Access to GOLF5 Kagoshima Yojiro Store and Sports Depo Frespo Jungle Park

The two facilities stand next to each other, so it's most convenient to head for Frespo Jungle Park, where many local buses stop by.

From Kagoshima Aiport: Ride the Airport Bus to Kagoshima Chuo Station. Switch to City Bus No. 16, and get off at Yojiro Itchome bus stop.

From Kagoshima Chuo Station: Ride the City Bus No. 16, and get off at Yojiro Itchome bus stop. Or take the Kagoshima Kotsu Bus No. 32-1, and get off at Yojiro Itchome Frespo Jungle Park-mae bus stop.

Golf 5 Kagoshima Yojiro Store

1-9-5 Yojiro, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, 890-0062

Golf 5 Kagoshima Yojiro store is a large specialty store located near Frespo, where you can find the perfect golf equipment with a wide selection and fitting.

A View of Sakurajima from a Golf Course and Jogging Route

Visitors can enjoy a view of Sakurajima while participating in various activities, which can only be experienced at Kagoshima.

5. Nangoku Country Club

Picture courtesy of Nangoku Country Club

Those who wish to try the gear purchased at GOLF5 Kagoshima Yojiro Store should visit Nangoku Country Club. It is only a 15-minute drive away from the urban areas of Kagoshima City. Golfers can take in the great view of Sakurajima while playing a round.

Nangoku Country Club is the second oldest golf course in the prefecture. Visitors will be able to enjoy golf with the blue sky, clouds, and Sakurajima as their backdrop.

Regardless of their skill, all golfers will be thrilled by the spacious setting and the wonderful view.

Nangoku Country Club

6769 Yoshinocho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, 892-0871

Nangoku Country Club in Kagoshima City offers a spectacular view of Kinko Bay and Sakurajima, and can be enjoyed by beginners and veterans alike.

6. Yojirogahama Waterway

Yojirogahama Waterway, not yet well-known, is a spot to take in the beautiful view of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay. From Sports Depo Frespo Jungle Park or GOLF5 Kagoshima Yojiro Store, it is an 8-minute walk to the waterway.

The breakwater, which stretches straight for nearly 1.6 kilometers, is the spot to visit. While locals may be reluctant to share the knowledge, it is perfect for a stroll or jogging.

Yojirogahama Waterway

1 Yojiro, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, 890-0062

The Long Waterway in Yojirogahama, Kagoshima City, is a waterfront space with a total length of about 1.6 km, offering a spectacular view of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay. It's the perfect place for a stroll while enjoying the scenery.

Experience the Local Appeals of Kagoshima!

Kagoshima Prefecture is rich in nature and culture, meeting a variety of travel needs.

Visitors can bathe in an onsen, shop or dine at Tenmonkan, look for sporting goods at Sports Depo Frespo Jungle Park, or try golf at GOLF5 Kagoshima Yojiro Store. Every activity will become a memorable experience.

A jog along the Yojirogahama Waterway, wearing new shoes, while finding comfort in the view of Sakurajima, is another great experience.

Kagoshima Prefecture is the place to enjoy a wide variety of travel styles.

Supported by Alpen