Sengan-en

Flow of the course

About this spot

This grand daimyo garden of the Shimazu clan's villa spreads along the shores of Kinko Bay, renowned for its spectacular borrowed scenery where Sakurajima becomes an artificial hill and Kinko Bay serves as a pond. In the mansion where successive lords once resided, you can glimpse how the daimyo lived, and within the garden stand the remains of a reverberatory furnace—a UNESCO World Heritage component asset that testifies to Japan's modernization. The garden's specialty is ryombo-mochi (denpa-mochi), grilled mochi cake in sweet miso sauce, enjoyed at a teahouse with views of Sakurajima—truly an experience fit for a lord. The grounds are dotted with unique attractions such as the Cat Shrine (Nekojinja), and as you walk, you'll be drawn deeper into Satsuma's history and stories.

Tips

The garden is extensive and takes over an hour to walk around, so wear comfortable shoes. Interior viewing of the mansion may require a separate fee, so confirm this at admission. The view of Sakurajima depends on weather; aim for a clear morning when the air is crisp.

Best time to visit

Approximately 2 hours required. Morning hours with clear air are ideal for spotting Sakurajima distinctly and strolling.

Access & map

〒892-0871 Kagoshima Prefecture, Kagoshima City, Yoshino-cho 9700-1