Kirishima, Administrative center in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan
Description
Kirishima is an administrative center in Kagoshima Prefecture stretching from the shores of the bay to the volcanic slopes inland. The city links forested highlands, farming valleys and small settlements that sit along the routes between hot spring resorts and woodland areas.
History
Archaeological finds in the area reach back to the Jōmon period, when people began settling the coastal plains and mountain fringes. During the Nara period this region formed the center of Ōsumi Province before administrative boundaries shifted several times through later centuries.
Culture
The name refers to an old mythological narrative in which gods descended to earth over the nearby mountain ridges. Visitors today see local pilgrims and hikers following the trails to the shrines to share in this spiritual heritage.
Practical
Kagoshima Airport sits within the city boundaries and offers domestic connections as well as some international flights. Regional trains and two motorways link the settlements to larger cities in southern Japan.
Did you know?
Tobacco cultivation was introduced here in the early 17th century and continued through generations, making the region one of Japan's major growing areas. Fields still run through some valleys today, though land use is gradually shifting.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Kagoshima Prefecture).
Aira Caldera
11.8 km
Kirishima Shrine
16.7 km
Mount Kirishima
23.8 km
Shirasu-Daichi
11.7 km
Mount Karakuni
23.4 km
Shinmoedake
22.1 km
Kagoshima Shrine
2.7 km
Kirishima Onsen
18.4 kmTakaya Sanryo
11.7 km
Sakurajima service area
14.1 km
和気神社
9.1 km
Hayatozuka
2.5 kmRyumon Falls
9 km
Ohachi
21.2 km
Kuwashi hoko-jinja
8.2 km
Kokubu Castle
987 mKirishima City Saigo Park
7.8 kmChâteau d'Iwakenjo
16.1 km
Inukai Falls
9 km
Terayama Charcoal Kiln
17.6 kmShingaku-ji
16.3 km
Kirishima International Concert Hall
16 km
Ōsumi Kokubun-ji
771 m
Miyauragū
9.4 km
Kagoshima Prefectural Yoshino Park
19.9 km
Hiramatsu shrine
16.3 km
Château de Princesse Kijo
1.8 kmChâteau de Hirayamashiro
12.3 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes