Samurai Spirit Half Day Walking Tour in Kagoshima
Description
Katsumoto was featured in the 2003 Hollywood movie "The Last Samurai," about Saigo Takamori, a Kagoshima native. The tour will visit historical sites related to the end of his life, in which he lived with a samurai spirit until the end. The route will start at the top of a hill from where you can see the entire city of Kagoshima and walk down to the arrival point in the center of the city, the statue of Takamori Saigo. Enjoy exploring with our knowledgeable local guide.
Tour Options
Itinerary
This 107-meter-high observatory is located in the center of Kagoshima City. From here, visitors can enjoy a view of Sakurajima, an active volcano, and the city. Shiroyama is also a natural treasure trove of large camphor trees, ferns, and other plants, and was the site of the last civil war in Japan, the fierce battle of the Seinan War. Start here and walk to the cave of Takamori Saigo.
Thirteen of the 88 statues of Kobo Daishi (one of the great monks in 8th century the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism) were erected in 1928 so that visitors to Kagoshima can experience a part of the 88 pilgrimages in Shikoku. Visitors can see stone Buddhist statues and Jizo statues.
This is the cave where Saigo Takamori and his comrades spent the last five days of the Civil War. Here, a guide will explain the thoughts of Saigo and his soldiers and reflect on his spirit as a samurai.
The main gate of Kagoshima Castle, Goromon, was destroyed by fire in 1873, but was rebuilt in 2020. Here, the guide will explain about the unique Kagoshima hometown education system that nurtured Kagoshima's samurai, the structure of the Goromon, and other aspects of samurai society of the time.
A bronze statue of Saigo Takamori, the model for The Last Samurai. Here, the guide will explain how Saigo Takamori's person earned the respect of many people, from the restoration of his honor after the Civil War to the erection of the bronze statue.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Number of minimum participants is two.
Reviews(4)
Toru was our guide today! He was prompt, friendly, and informative. He gave us an idea of who the Samurai was and the history of the last Samurai! We watched the 2003 movie “The Last Samurai “ before going on the tour which gave some great background insights. It was amazing to see the area and history of Siego-san, Katsumoto.
Knowledgeable guide, informative experience regarding the key points of historical transition of Japan..
Thank you! I also had a great time because you were interested in the history of Kagoshima/Japan. Wishing you’ll continue your lovely journey! Kuni.
Excellent tour guide Karin took us by foot around the key sites at Shiroyama Mountain, and explained very thoroughly about the Samurai culture and history embodied by Saigo Takamori. It was very peaceful, personal and extremely enjoyable. We had a great time! Highly recommend.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m delighted to hear that you enjoyed the tour. I also had a fantastic time walking around the old castle site with you and sharing the Samurai Spirit along the way. Your kind words truly mean a lot to me, and I sincerely appreciate your recommendation. I hope to welcome you again in the future—maybe next time with your father-in-law! :) Karin
The experience was very interesting as Kuni guided us into the Samurai spirit of Kagoshima city, by showing us lit of spots where the last samurai lived and died. Kuni is a very kind man and very open to questions and jokes. We had great time with him.
Thank you! I also had a lot of fun with happy guests. Thank you very much for visiting my hometown, Kagoshima. Wishing you'll have a wonderful life. Kuni
