KagoshimaLeisure

Kanmuridake Observation Park (冠岳展望公園)

Flow of the course

Previous stop: Learn about the Satsuma samurai who sailed to Britain at the end of the Edo period

About 30 min from the previous stop

About 90 min here

About 15 min to the next stop

Next stop: Take a break browsing local produce and souvenirs

About this spot

A park on Mt. Kanmuridake (冠岳) in Ichikikushikino City, home to a 6-meter statue of Xu Fu (徐福), said to be the tallest of its kind in Japan. It was built in 2000 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the former Kushikino City's founding. According to legend, Xu Fu, who came here seeking the elixir of immortality, left his crown behind — the origin of the mountain's name, Kanmuridake ('crown peak'). From the hilltop you can look out over Fukiagehama (吹上浜) beach and the Satsuma Peninsula (薩摩半島). After a day of exploring history, it's a good place to shift gears ahead of the evening fireworks.

Tips

About 15 minutes by car from the Museum of the Satsuma Students' Britain Expedition. Some sections involve mountain paths, so wear comfortable walking shoes. In summer, insect repellent is reassuring to have too.