Four Itchy Feet

August 23, 2025. Kagoshima, Japan.

We started our day with a walk through the rain to pick up our rental car. Once on the road, we headed toward the foot of Sakurajima, the active volcano that dominates Kagoshima Bay. The drive along the bay offered ever-changing views of the volcano, with clouds drifting across its slopes and steam occasionally rising from its crater—a reminder of its constant activity.

After circling Sakurajima, we boarded the ferry back to Kagoshima. The short voyage was pleasant and surprisingly affordable, costing only $13 for both of us and the car. The ferry provided wide views of the bay and the city skyline, framed by the looming volcano in the distance.

Our next stop was the Chiran Country Club, a pristine golf course tucked into the lush mountains of southern Kagoshima Prefecture. The fairways were lined with greenery, and the quiet atmosphere made it feel worlds away from the bustle of the city.

From there, we continued upward into the hills and found ourselves transported back in time at the Chiran Samurai Residence Garden District. Walking through the preserved Edo-period streets felt like stepping four centuries into the past. The district is made up of samurai homes with carefully maintained gardens, each one unique in design but all radiating a sense of harmony and peace. Along the main street, a clear water channel runs for several blocks, and colorful koi fish swim gracefully through it—a charming detail that brings the old town to life.

Kagoshima had only been a cursory stop on our cruise itinerary, but after today’s experiences, we realized it deserves much more time. What was once a simple stopover has now become a destination we would consider essential for any future trip to Japan.