We overnighted in Kagoshima which gave me the opportunity to look around the town. I was hoping to try the local delicacy of kurobuta pork, unfortunately the places that were renowned or even decent wouldn’t open until too late. Still lots of things to see.
Sunrise over Sakurajima
I was lucky enough to wake up in time to watch the sunrise over Sakurajima, a great start to the day.
Oz’s Kagoshima Wander
It was a Sunday and there was a festival / flea market going on near the drop off point, a good place to start my wander. An interesting collection of street food and local goods, including second hand stuff.
After a wander around the market it was time to check out the town. Definitely an few eclectic places around.
Surprised I haven’t seen someone riding in spiderman bike gear in Singapore…
A couple of days before my wander Sakurajima had a bit of a burp, a minor eruption. The local councils distribute plastic yellow bags to collect the ash, which they apparently use to enrich soil. Sakurajima’s ash is the reason for the unique qualities of produce of the prefecture including the sencha tea and kurobuta pork.
On wander I came across what I would guess is a part of the Kagoshima Spring Festival of Daihanya. The different dance troops sing and dance to their unique version of Hanya-bushi. They really put everything into it.
I came across a betting shop with some interesting mascots..
After an enjoyable walk around Kagoshima it was time to head back to the ship.
Sail Away
Our departure was early afternoon and attracted a pretty big crowd. The reason for the crowd and the pretty amazing send off was that we were the first cruise ship to visit Kagoshima since Covid. The band was a local school band and were pretty good.
What is the appropriate drink to celebrate our last port in Japan? Sparkling sake of course. I bought this in Kochi.
Having a cabin that over sees the bow has its benefits, especially when there is a view like this one.
I think the school band may have out played the ships band. It was a great send off.
Japan
I really enjoyed my time in Japan. The people, landscape, food and sake make Japan a place that I can’t wait to visit again. Next time I hope to visit the northern end of the country.
Next up a couple of dinners.
very interesting place, enjoyed the photos.
Yeah, somewhere to spend a bit more time.
Looks like a great trip!
It was, not finished yet… Would have been more fun with you guys!