I’ve never really wanted to go to Japan. Simply because I don’t like eating fish.
Brittany Spears (one can be grateful for somethings in life)
Was an early start this morning, well earlier than yesterday. Wasn’t really sure what to expect from this place. What I knew is what I taught regarding the Satsuma Rebellion and that there is a volcano situated just off the city’s coastline. Apart from that, it’s the walk into the unknown that makes travel so much fun.
Well the trip started at Hakata Train Station aboard a Shinkansen at around 9am. With a 7-11 Bento box in hand, Tracy and myself did the 1hr40min trip with the occasional nap thrown in (it had been a big day yesterday). When we reached Kagoshima and got our bearings, we had a few things to try and complete before we had to catch the train back at 6.29pm.
We jumped aboard the City Bus and straight to the lookout at Shiroyama Park. I read that this place was the best view of the city and Sakurajima Volcano. Who ever wrote this advice on the web wasn’t wrong. The view was absolutely sensational and a great start to our day in Kagoshima. The park was also the site of the Satsuma Rebellion in 1877 so it doubled in the history stakes. The city itself is steeped in history and very much commemorates the importance of the Satsuma region in the creation of modern Japan.
Back on the bus and straight to a picture opportunity with the statue of General Saigo Takimori (who died in the rebellion), his dog and small replica of a volcano. The volunteer who works in the spot was such a cracker. To say she loved her job is an understatement and took me and Tracy about 6 times (I suppose you have to hit the spot at least once). From there it was a stroll to St Francis Xavier park which commemorates the memory of St Francis and the other Catholic priests who arrived in the 16th century. There was the craziest telephone booth I have ever seen in the park. The thing was modelled like a mini mausoleum complete with the metal lining and heavy door.
The last activity was the ferry trip across to Sakurajima Volcano. The weather was getting a little chilly but the trip was definitely worth it. It was the first time I had seen a real active volcano up close and personal (well we weren’t next to the crater) and it was impressive. We basically went across and came straight back as we didn’t have the time to do much else. It would have been good to go for a bit of a closer look but time constraints being what they are, that will have to wait for another day. After this, it was back to the station for the trip back to Hakata. When we got back, we hung around the Xmas markets for a bit and watched a band. The best 15 mins so far of the Fukuoka Xmas markets. I got some video footage of the band so have a look because it’s definitely worth it.
Anyways, Nagasaki tomorrow and then Hiroshima on the weekend. Roll on Kyushu.
Images
2019 December Japan 