Sengan-en: A Feudal Lord's Garden with a View
Explore a historic Japanese garden with stunning views of Sakurajima volcano and a glimpse into the life of the Shimazu clan.
Sengan-en, also known as Isoteien, is a stunning Japanese-style garden in Kagoshima, built in 1658 by the powerful Shimazu clan. It offers breathtaking views of the active Sakurajima volcano and Kagoshima Bay, incorporating them into the landscape as 'borrowed scenery'.
A brief summary to Sengan-en
- 9700-1 Yoshino-chō, Kagoshima, Yoshino-chō, Kagoshima, 892-0871, JP
- +8199-247-1551
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking to do, including a mountain hiking trail.
- Visit the Cat Shrine and pray for the health of your feline friend.
- Try Jambo-mochi, a local sweet treat consisting of two lightly toasted rice cakes glazed with sweet soy or miso sauce.
- Check out the Shoko Shuseikan Museum to learn about the Shimazu clan's role in Japan's industrial revolution.
- Allow at least 3 hours to explore the garden and museum.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kagoshima-Chuo Station, take the Kagoshima City View bus to the 'Senganen-mae' bus stop. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes and costs ¥190. Alternatively, a new railway station opened next to Senganen in March 2025. The ride from Kagoshima Chuo Station takes 8 minutes, costs 240 yen and is covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Kyushu Rail Pass.
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Taxi
A taxi from Kagoshima city center to Sengan-en takes approximately 10 minutes and costs between ¥2900 and ¥3500.
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Car
Sengan-en is about a 20-minute drive from Kagoshima-Chuo Station. Parking is available next to the garden for ¥300. Note that card payments may not be accepted, so it's advisable to have coins ready.
Discover more about Sengan-en
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Iso Beach
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Waterfront Park
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Kagoshima (Tsurumaru) Castle Ruins
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Reimeikan - Kagoshima History Museum and Fine Arts Center
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Sakurajima Volcanic Shore Park and Footbath
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Sakurajima Volcanic Shore Lake
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Sakurajima Visitor Center
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sengan-en Brand Shop
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SAKURAJIMA TRAVEL STORE
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