Kagoshima Unearthed: Sea Currents and Volcanoes
Embark on a four-day culinary adventure in Kagoshima, where the interplay between rich sea currents and volcanic soils shapes the local cuisine. This unique journey will take you through the vibrant food culture of Kagoshima, offering hands-on experiences and exquisite meals in stunning surroundings.
Open Dates
Spring ~ Autumn
Length
3 nights, 4 days
Location
Kagoshima, Kyushu
Price
¥800,000~ /person
Highlights
Cycling on Sakurajima
Cycle around one of Japan's most active volcanoes while enjoying scenic views and a bento lunch made with local ingredients.
Kagoshima Fish Market Tour
Start your day early by visiting Kagoshima’s bustling fish market and sampling fresh seafood straight from the source.
Mountain Hiking
Explore the Kirishima Mountain Range and trace the descent of the Shinto kami to Earth with a mountain guide.
Producers of Kagoshima Ingredients
Discover the craftsmanship behind Kagoshima’s renowned local ingredients, from traditional techniques to innovative methods, and explore the deep connection between the region’s culinary heritage and its natural resources.
About
Explore Kagoshima’s culinary heritage, shaped by the land and sea, and uncover the secrets of its cuisine while enjoying unforgettable activities in nature, from cycling around a volcano to hiking a mountain with a local guide.
On this adventure, you will sample authentic, everyday Kagoshima cuisine while encountering the people behind the food, from the fishermen to artisan makers of ingredients.
You will stay at the Sheraton Kagoshima in the city for the first night. For the second two nights, you will stay at a beautiful traditional inn.
On this adventure, you will sample authentic, everyday Kagoshima cuisine while encountering the people behind the food, from the fishermen to artisan makers of ingredients.
You will stay at the Sheraton Kagoshima in the city for the first night. For the second two nights, you will stay at a beautiful traditional inn.
What's included
- 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.
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.
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.
Itinerary
Day 1: Local Flavors and Relaxation
Morning:
Arrive in Kagoshima via shinkansen. Private pick-up and transfer to Ibusuki.
Lunch:
Enjoy a light meal of somen nagashi, a fun local dish where noodles are served flowing in a stream of water.
Afternoon:
Visit local farmers and producers in the Kagoshima area to learn about the region’s unique agricultural practices and the artisanal methods behind its high-quality ingredients. Gain insight into how these local products shape Kagoshima’s rich culinary heritage. Relax with a rejuvenating sand bath in Ibusuki, where volcanic sand provides a unique and restorative experience.
Evening:
Dine at San’ei, a historic restaurant famed for its cozy but refined dining experience. The founder was the personal chef of the Showa Emperor in Kagoshima. Overnight at Sheraton Kagoshima.
Arrive in Kagoshima via shinkansen. Private pick-up and transfer to Ibusuki.
Lunch:
Enjoy a light meal of somen nagashi, a fun local dish where noodles are served flowing in a stream of water.
Afternoon:
Visit local farmers and producers in the Kagoshima area to learn about the region’s unique agricultural practices and the artisanal methods behind its high-quality ingredients. Gain insight into how these local products shape Kagoshima’s rich culinary heritage. Relax with a rejuvenating sand bath in Ibusuki, where volcanic sand provides a unique and restorative experience.
Evening:
Dine at San’ei, a historic restaurant famed for its cozy but refined dining experience. The founder was the personal chef of the Showa Emperor in Kagoshima. Overnight at Sheraton Kagoshima.
Day 2: Kagoshima City and Sakurajima
Morning:
Visit the Kagoshima Fish Market for a breakfast of the freshest seafood while watching the morning catch arrive. Take a coffee break and explore Kagoshima City’s charming streets and local culture.
Afternoon:
Cycle on Sakurajima, Kagoshima’s iconic active volcano. Take in the magnificent views of the bay and enjoy a picnic bento lunch made with local specialities. Head towards the mountainous Kirishima region.
Evening:
Relax in the volcanic hot springs. Overnight at Ishihara-so or Gajoen.
Visit the Kagoshima Fish Market for a breakfast of the freshest seafood while watching the morning catch arrive. Take a coffee break and explore Kagoshima City’s charming streets and local culture.
Afternoon:
Cycle on Sakurajima, Kagoshima’s iconic active volcano. Take in the magnificent views of the bay and enjoy a picnic bento lunch made with local specialities. Head towards the mountainous Kirishima region.
Evening:
Relax in the volcanic hot springs. Overnight at Ishihara-so or Gajoen.
Day 3: Culture and Nature
Morning:
Visit Kirishima Shrine, a sacred Shinto site in the mountains rich in history and spirituality.
Afternoon:
Hike through the Kirishima Mountain range, known for its stunning landscapes and tranquil beauty.
Tea Experience:
Partake in a green tea experience at a local tea farm, where you’ll learn about Kagoshima’s famous tea production and taste fresh brews.
OR
Craft Shochu Distillery:
Visit a distillery deep in Kirishima's mountains, learn about how shochu is made, and sample Japan’s most popular alcoholic drink with local Kagoshima food. Overnight at Ishihara-so or Gajoen.
Visit Kirishima Shrine, a sacred Shinto site in the mountains rich in history and spirituality.
Afternoon:
Hike through the Kirishima Mountain range, known for its stunning landscapes and tranquil beauty.
Tea Experience:
Partake in a green tea experience at a local tea farm, where you’ll learn about Kagoshima’s famous tea production and taste fresh brews.
OR
Craft Shochu Distillery:
Visit a distillery deep in Kirishima's mountains, learn about how shochu is made, and sample Japan’s most popular alcoholic drink with local Kagoshima food. Overnight at Ishihara-so or Gajoen.
Day 4: Departure
Morning: Transfer to Kagoshima Airport for your departure flight.
Accommodations
Kagoshima offers a range of accommodations, from the Sheraton in the heart of the city to the peaceful Ishihara-so and Gajoen in the countryside. We will tailor your stay according to your party’s preferences and budget. After discussing your specific needs, we will confirm and secure your best options.