Kagoshima
Kagoshima, in southern Japan, is known for its stunning views of Sakurajima, an active volcano that dominates the skyline. This is where I spent most of my time in Japan, and it holds a special place in my heart.
Photos
Sakurajima from Yoshino Park
We loved spending time in Yoshino Park when I was a kid, and its amazing view of Sakurajima was certainly part of the reason. This photo is my dad's. I'm not actually sure what year this was.
1979-10-01
Sakurajima from our Yoshino house
This is a view of Sakurajima from our house in Yoshino, exact year unknown. It would have been between 1975 and 1977, I think. Photo taken by my dad.
1976-06-06
Yoshino Park still pond
Yoshino Park has changed surpisingly little in the past 42 years, but this little pond with its stone lanterns and quiet footpaths postdates my childhood in Kagoshima.
2025-06-25
Sakurajima from Yoshino Park
Our visit to Yoshino Park was so wonderful for many reasons, high amongst them me being able to stare across the bay at Sakurajima for the first time in 42 years.
2025-06-25
Yoshino Park Entrance
After 42 years, this simple park entrance was quite the sight. Yoshino Park in Kagoshima.
2025-06-25
The Tenmonkan!
I don't know when it became described as THE Tenmonkan, but we knew it as Tenmonkan. Kagoshima's shopping highlight (and home to lots of good food)!
2025-06-24
Kagoshima Tram
Public transportation in Japan is amazing, and Kagoshima's trams are just one of the many reasons why.
2025-06-25
Jyujiya Record Store
I don't know if this is THE Jyujiya of our youth, but it's where Jyujiya is now. Jyujiya in Kagoshima had a multi-story record shop and a soundproof recording studio. It was amazing.
2025-06-24
Tenmonkan Dori by Yamakataya
Yamakataya isn't really what it was before, but it was a fun department store with books and toys, along with the requisite boring adult department store stuff. Located in Kagoshima next to Tenmonkan Dori.
2025-06-25
Yoshino Park Palms
I remember these trees from when I was little, but I think there were fewer of them, mostly around the perimeter of this little section of Yoshino Park. The little hill in the background is where the Sakurajima viewpoint is located.
2025-06-25
