About one hour south of Kagoshima city by train, the journey down to Ibusuki takes you along the coast with stunning views of Mount Sakurajima volcano and Kinko Bay.

Trying out the sand baths is a must for any visit here as well as sampling the local cuisine including satsumaage fishcakes and kurobuta black pork. South of Ibusuki is Mount Kaimon, known as "Satsuma Fuji" for its striking resemblance to the shape of Japan's highest mountain. Enjoy the views of the mountain from one of the areas hot spring baths or hike up to the top for some impressive views of the surrounding countryside.

Satsuma Denshokan Museum exhibits a wide collection of local pottery housed in an impressive building. Between March and October take a stroll across the sand bar which connects Chiringashima Island to the mainland, a popular matchmaking spot for locals. Also nearby is the town of Chiran - home to a collection of samurai houses and a museum about Japan's World War Two kamikaze pilots.