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Kagoshima is famous for the natural beauty of its bay and the Sakurajima Volcano. But a 20-minute bus ride from Kagoshima Chuo Station will bring you to the stunning Shiroyama Park overlooking the city. Translated as the white mountain, Shiroyama Park sits at 107 meters above sea level. The park has fantastic views of the distant Sakurajima Volcano across the bay puffing out volcanic ash and smoke and draws in flocks of tourists for its natural splendor. The park is blanketed over the Shiroyama Mountain of the same name, and is conveniently located close to downtown Kagoshima.
![Shiroyama Park in Kagoshima]()
Shiroyama Park in Kagoshima
In 1931 Shiroyama was made into a national historical landmark and natural monument. Historically, Shiroyama Mountain is significant to Kagoshima Prefecture. It was formerly the site of a castle fortress called Kagoshima or Tsurumaru Castle, the setting of the final battle of the Satsuma Rebellion in 1877, and was a vital contributor to the Meiji Restoration. The locals pay homage to the hero Saigo Takamori, known as the ‘last true samurai.' He is said to have died fighting in Saigo Cave located within the park. A statue in his honor is located near the Reimeikan Museum built on top of the remnants of the castle's grounds. A commemorative festival is also held in honor of this battle in June each year.
![Shiroyama Park in Kagoshima]()
Shiroyama Park in Kagoshima
Kagoshima Prefecture enjoys a southern temperate climate, and because of this more than 600 temperate and subtropical plant life grow in abundance throughout the park. These include ferns, camphor and coral trees, cherry blossoms in the spring and azalea and chrysanthemum during the rest of the year. This makes the air rich and fresh with greenery and plant life and a joy to walk through the multiple trails. The observatory located at the peak provides a once in a lifetime view of Kagoshima city and the surrounding bay.
![Shiroyama Park in Kagoshima]()
Shiroyama Park in Kagoshima
Shiroyama is also a fun location for people watching, as many locals and tourists alike come here to enjoy the scenery and take walks through the park. The park also has breathtaking scenery at night time, with the city light dancing below the hill. If you’re lucky, the spectacular night view allows you to make out Sakurajima volcano behind the flashing city life.
![Shiroyama Park in Kagoshima]()
Shiroyama Park in Kagoshima
Near the Castle Park Hotel is the Satsuma no Yu, an onsen in which travelers can relax and rejuvenate. While soaking in the steaming waters, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the park. The onsen is open to non-staying guests and is around 2,300 yen for an adult with towels and other necessities included.
![Shiroyama Park in Kagoshima]()
Shiroyama Park in Kagoshima
It is possible to walk to the park and hike to the top of the peak, but there are also City View Buses available for around 200 yen or 600 yen for a day pass. The City View Bus Shiroyama-Iso line is available as a round trip from Kagoshima Chuo Station.
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