Local Guide
If you're going to have fun in Kagoshima City and Kirishima, here are 6 recommended sightseeing spots for families with children

Kagoshima Prefecture, famous for its active volcano, Sakurajima, is dotted with tourist spots and parks that blend in with nature. These include the only zoo in Kyushu where you can meet koalas, and an aquarium that exhibits creatures from Kagoshima, a place surrounded by three seas (the Pacific Ocean, the East China Sea, and Kinko Bay), which is rare nationwide. Each spot offers valuable learning and Experience, and is full of attractions that can only be found in Kagoshima, including magnificent scenery. In this article, we will introduce six tourist spots in Kagoshima City and Kirishima that are perfect for families.

A charming tourist ranch where you can interact with animals while taking in the views of the Kirishima mountain range

A popular Experience of milking cows (free of charge) is only available on Sundays and public holidays. Numbered tickets are distributed to the first 30 people at the general information desk.
A popular Experience of milking cows (free of charge) is only available on Sundays and public holidays. Numbered tickets are distributed to the first 30 people at the general information desk.

This tourist ranch is located at the foot of the Kirishima mountain range, on the border with Miyazaki Prefecture. On the vast 42-hectare site, there are plenty of exciting Experience to enjoy all day long. In addition to touring the cowshed and sheepshed, you can also interact with cute, fluffy sheep at the "Animal Interaction Land."
You can also Experience your own butter (for a fee) if you make a reservation in advance. There are four horse riding courses Experience for children from 3 years old, from leading the horse to photography courses, allowing you to interact with the horses according to your age and level.

Savor farm cuisine while taking in the spectacular views

The Genghis Khan Hot Pot Set can be ordered for two or more people (2,000 yen per person)
The Genghis Khan Hot Pot Set can be ordered for two or more people (2,000 yen per person)

After having a great time playing, fill your stomach at Makiba Restaurant or the food court. They also have a children's menu and the farm's popular soft serve ice cream.
Recommended dishes at Restaurant are the authentic beef rib yakiniku and Genghis Khan. The Genghis Khan in particular is grilled on a dome-shaped iron plate, which is rare in Kyushu, and the special sauce is well-mixed with the meat, resulting in an authentic taste without any unpleasant odor. Recommended dishes at the food court are the pizza with plenty of mozzarella cheese and the diced steak, which are popular with both adults and children. Both restaurants have a wide variety of menus, so both parents and children are sure to be very satisfied.

Comments Local Guide
During the cherry blossom season, it is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing and is also recommended as a picnic spot. Parents and children can refresh their minds and bodies while taking in the spectacular views.
Takachiho Ranch
  • URLhttps://www.takachiho-bokujou.co.jp/
  • 住所5265-103 Yoshinomotocho, Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 10 minutes by car from JR Kirishima-Jingu Station
  • バスアクセスTake a bus from JR Kirishima-Jingu Station, change at Kirishima-Jingu (Kirishima-Jingu to Miyakonojo Station bound bus), get off at "Takachiho Bokujo"
  • 営業時間April to October 9:00-17:30, November to March 9:00-17:00
  • 定休日Irregular holidays (please check the official website for details)
  • 入場料Free admission
  • TEL0986-33-2102
  • 駐車場free

The only zoo in Kyushu where you can meet koalas

The "African Grasslands Zone" uses Sakurajima as a representation of Mount Kilimanjaro. You can see zebras, rhinos, and giraffes that live in the savanna.
The "African Grasslands Zone" uses Sakurajima as a representation of Mount Kilimanjaro. You can see zebras, rhinos, and giraffes that live in the savanna.

This zoo is located about 35 minutes by car from Kagoshima Chuo Station and is surrounded by lush greenery. The African Grasslands Zone has no fences blocking the view, so you can observe the animals up close, which is quite impressive.
It is the only zoo in Kyushu where you can see koalas, and it has the largest number of koalas in Japan. You can observe the koalas closely while feeling the scent of eucalyptus in a space with no partitions such as glass windows between you and the koalas. We recommend visiting at 11:00 am during meal time. There are plenty of other attractions, such as the king vulture, the only animal that can be seen in Japan, and the "World Crane Zone" where you can see 11 types of cranes, the largest number in Japan.

There is also an amusement park where you can see animals and Sakurajima from the Ferris wheel.

There is a wide selection of play equipment that parents and children can enjoy together. You can use the rides for 100 yen per ticket.
There is a wide selection of play equipment that parents and children can enjoy together. You can use the rides for 100 yen per ticket.

The park also has an amusement park that is very popular with families. There are a wide variety of playground equipment, from small to large, and the merry-go-round and flying tower are so popular that they attract about 100,000 visitors a year. From the Ferris wheel, you can see giraffes and zebras in the African grassland zone, and on clear days, you can see Sakurajima, Kinko Bay, and even the Kirishima mountain range.
In addition, there are diaper changing spaces, nursing rooms, rest areas, and shops in various locations, so you can feel safe even if you have small children. We also recommend using the zoo bus, which runs every 15 minutes, to get around the zoo. Strollers are allowed on board.

Comments Local Guide
There are also talks by zookeepers (on the fourth Sunday of every month) and events to observe the feeding of miscellaneous and carnivorous animals (on the 29th of every month). We also recommend the "touching corner" where you can interact with the animals while listening to detailed explanations by the zookeepers. (For more information, please check the official website.)
Kagoshima City Hirakawa Zoo
  • URLhttps://hirakawazoo.jp/
  • 住所5669-1 Hirakawacho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 35 minutes by car from JR Kagoshima Chuo Station
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from JR Goino Station (in front of Fukuhira Agricultural Cooperative Association) and get off at "Hirakawa Zoo"
  • 営業時間9:00-17:00 (entrance until 16:30)
  • 定休日December 29th - January 1st
  • 入場料Adults: 500 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 100 yen *Free for preschoolers
  • TEL099-261-2326
  • 駐車場Large cars and buses: 400 yen per trip, regular cars and light vehicles: 200 yen per trip

The impressive Kuroshio Large Aquarium where whale sharks swim leisurely

The 1,500 ton Kuroshio Large Aquarium is impressive. It is the only aquarium in Kyushu that displays the world's largest fish, the whale shark.
The 1,500 ton Kuroshio Large Aquarium is impressive. It is the only aquarium in Kyushu that displays the world's largest fish, the whale shark.

Located about a 15-minute walk from Kagoshima Station, this aquarium offers a panoramic view of Sakurajima. It exhibits about 10,000 creatures of about 800 species from Kinko Bay to the Nansei Islands. You can encounter creatures that live in the seas around the mainland of Kagoshima Prefecture, as well as corals and tropical fish that live in the Nansei Islands that extend south of the mainland, and the rare "Satsuma haori worm" that can be seen in Kinko Bay.
Also, don't miss the Sea Slug Research Institute, Japan's first permanent sea slug exhibition Property. You'll be soothed by their colorful and cute appearance.

Enjoy the dolphin show and interact with the animals for unforgettable memories

"Dolphin Time" is a corner that introduces the abilities and body mechanics of dolphins and is held every day (it may be canceled depending on the dolphins' health condition).
"Dolphin Time" is a corner that introduces the abilities and body mechanics of dolphins and is held every day (it may be canceled depending on the dolphins' health condition).

In addition to just looking at the creatures in the aquarium, there is also a "touch pool" (outdoor Property) where you can actually interact with the animals, and there are events with detailed explanations from the zookeepers, so parents and children can have fun and learn at their own pace.
Events such as "Open-air Dolphin Watching" and the ability to watch seals eating and electric eels catching food with electricity are held every day. The impressive feeding of the pirarucu, said to be one of the world's largest freshwater fish, can only be seen on Saturdays. Events may not be held depending on the health of the animals, so be sure to check the information for the day.

Comments Local Guide
The Kuroshio Large Aquarium is an impressive sight! Part of the tank is a tunnel, so you can see the fish from various angles. The world of Kagoshima's ocean spreads out before you, and you'll find yourself fascinated, so we recommend stopping by with plenty of time.
Io World Kagoshima Aquarium
  • URLhttps://ioworld.jp/
  • 住所3-1 Honkocho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 10 minutes by car from JR Kagoshima Chuo Station
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from JR Kagoshima Chuo Station and get off at "Kagoshima Aquarium Mae"
  • 営業時間9:30-18:00 (Entry until 17:00) *Open until 21:00 on Golden Week, Saturdays and Sundays during summer vacation, national holidays, and Obon
  • 定休日Four days from the first Monday in December
  • 入場料Adults: 1,500 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 750 yen, children (ages 4 and over): 350 yen
  • TEL099-226-2233
  • 駐車場Free for up to 1 hour

A nature park where you can play with life-sized dinosaurs

A park rich in nature where you can enjoy yourself right in front of Sakurajima
A park rich in nature where you can enjoy yourself right in front of Sakurajima

This park is located on a hill about two minutes by car from the Sakurajima Port Ferry Terminal. In keeping with the primitive image of the rugged Sakurajima, the park features seven life-sized dinosaur models, including Allosaurus, Brontosaurus, and Diplodocus. Some of the dinosaurs even have slides or small tunnels that are extremely popular with children. Near the models, there are detailed descriptions of the body length, the era in which they lived, their characteristics, and so on, so you can learn a little something new.
From the observation deck, you can also enjoy beautiful views of Kagoshima city, Kinko Bay, and Sakurajima.

There are plenty of athletic facilities, including a 50m long slide.

A 12.5m slide, equivalent to the height of a four-story building
A 12.5m slide, equivalent to the height of a four-story building

In addition to the dinosaur models, the park also has field athletics and a 50m long roller slide. From the top of the slide, you can see Sakurajima as well as the city of Kagoshima.
There are 14 different types of play equipment, including jungle gyms, monkey bars, Tarzan ropes, and swings. In spring, it is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot, and is crowded with many families with children. Adults can also enjoy the outdoors by taking in the forest and taking in the scenery.

Comments Local Guide
The vast park is also equipped with restrooms, drinking fountains, and foot washing areas. If you are visiting with your children, we recommend bringing a picnic sheet and enjoying a picnic in the shade of the trees.
Sakurajima Dinosaur Nature Park
  • URLhttps://www.kagoshima-kankou.com/guide/10572
  • 住所79 Yokoyamacho, Sakurajima, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスAbout 10 minutes walk from Sakurajima Port Ferry Terminal
  • 営業時間Open daily
  • 入場料free
  • TEL099-216-1366（鹿児島市公園緑化課）
  • 駐車場free

Learn about Jomon culture at the nationally designated historic site "Uenohara Ruins"

The museum exhibits artifacts from the early Jomon period.
The museum exhibits artifacts from the early Jomon period.

Property preserves and utilizes the Uenohara Ruins, located at an altitude of 250m, surrounded by Sakurajima, Kinko Bay, and the Kirishima Mountains. The Uenohara Ruins is a nationally designated historic site, and is confirmed to be one of the largest and oldest permanent settlements in Japan. In addition, 767 artifacts excavated from the site, including jar-shaped pottery, clay figurines, and earrings, have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
The vast park, which recreates an ancient forest, is divided into two areas. In the observation area, you can see excavated artifacts and what the village looked like from approximately 10,600 years ago, while in Experience area, you can enjoy Experience from the Jomon period and athletics.

A fire-making Experience that parents and children can enjoy together

"Fire-making Experience" (50 yen) is Experience at the reception on the day (children under 4th grade must be accompanied by a guardian)
"Fire-making Experience" (50 yen) is Experience at the reception on the day (children under 4th grade must be accompanied by a guardian)

Since you've come all the way here, be sure to try out the Jomon Experience. Experience area has a wide range Experience that children will enjoy, such as making fire, making bows and arrows, and making accessories.
The most recommended activity is the "fire making Experience." It takes about 30 minutes and Experience using a fire starter, a fire stove, a board, etc. There are also other Experience that even adults can get absorbed in, such as "accessory making" by carving a rock called talc, and "beautiful sea pearls" by polishing a luminous shell. It's a great way to create memories on a family trip.

Comments Local Guide
Don't miss the precious exhibits that can only be seen here, such as Jomon pottery with different patterns and earrings. There are also dioramas and a mini theater that show what the Jomon period was like, so everyone from adults to children can have fun learning.
Uenohara Jomon Forest
  • URLhttps://www.jomon-no-mori.jp
  • 住所Kagoshima Prefecture, Kirishima City, Kokubu Uenohara Jomon Forest 1-1 MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 20 minutes by car from JR Kokubu Station
  • 営業時間9:00-17:00 (entry until 16:30)
  • 定休日Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday), December 30th to January 1st, and five days in mid-February
    *For details, please check the official website.
  • 入場料Adults: 320 yen, high school and university students: 210 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 150 yen, infants and toddlers: free
  • TEL0995-48-5701
  • 駐車場free

Glide down the super slider while taking in the view of the Kirishima mountain range

"Super Slider" is an exhilarating slide from the observation deck (600 yen including lift fee) *Children under the age of 2 must be accompanied by a guardian
"Super Slider" is an exhilarating slide from the observation deck (600 yen including lift fee) *Children under the age of 2 must be accompanied by a guardian

This park is attached to the "Kirishima Roadside Station," located about a five-minute drive from Kirishima Shrine. It is packed with playground Property and facilities for parents and children to enjoy, including putt-putt golf, sledding, and a ride called a "Pokkarl" that slides down a grass slope.
A must-visit spot is the observation deck at an altitude of about 670m, where you can get a panoramic view of Kirishima's natural beauty. Walk or take the road train to the lift station and then take the sightseeing lift. There is a photo spot at the observation deck, so don't forget to take some photos. On the way back, we recommend taking a refreshing ride down the 390m long Super Slider.

A panoramic park with a panoramic view of Kirishima's vast nature

Spectacular views of the Kirishima Mountains, Sakurajima, and Kinko Bay
Spectacular views of the Kirishima Mountains, Sakurajima, and Kinko Bay

After having a lot of fun, head to Restaurant "Roadside Station Kirishima Hot Kirishimakan." In addition to local dishes such as the "Seigodon Gozen" (limited to 10 meals per day) and the "Black Pork Shabu-Shabu Set Meal," which are full of Kagoshima delicacies, there is a wide variety of other dishes on the menu, including curry, udon, and soba.
For dessert after your meal, we recommend the blueberry soft serve ice cream "Sotto Kiri-mu" from the "Yokamon Market" located on the premises. It is handmade using blueberries grown on the garden's own farm, and has a refreshing taste with a slight sweetness and sourness.

Comments Local Guide
With about 500 cherry trees, it is also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. You can also Experience blueberry picking from mid-July to late August. This is a park where parents and children can have fun while enjoying the nature of Kirishima throughout the four seasons.
Kirishima Myth Village Park (Kirishima Roadside Station)
  • URLhttps://www.shinwanosato.jp/
  • 住所2583-22 Kirishima Taguchi, Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 15 minutes by car from JR Kirishima-Jingu Station
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from JR Kirishima-Jingu Station and get off at the Kirishima Shinwa-no-Sato Park Entrance
  • 営業時間9:00～17:00
  • 定休日Open everyday (※Play Property will be closed for one week in June due to regular inspections)
  • 入場料Sightseeing lift (round trip): 600 yen (ages 4 and over)
    Super Slider: 600 yen (ages 4 and up. Children under 6 must be accompanied by a guardian)
    Road train (one way): 200 yen (ages 4 and over)
    *For further details, please check the official website.
  • TEL0995-57-1711
  • 駐車場Yes (free)

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