Kagoshima

Kagoshima prefecture, is the most southern prefecture of Kyushu. Together with its numerous islands that stretch hundreds of kilometers to the south, with the Amami islands being huge domestic tourist spots due to their unrivaled natural beauty. Perhaps the top landmark for Kagoshima, however, is Sakurajima, an active volcano that is unmissable, as it towers over the Kagoshima bay just opposite the city. Sakurajima has a steady stream of smoke and ash that erupts daily, with heavy days requiring an umbrella to avoid the ash. You can access Sakurajima quickly and cheaply via ferry from the Kagoshima bay and even climb most of the way up Sakurajima for fantastic views of the bay and the city.