Nanshu Cemetery
A serene historical site featuring the grave of Saigo Takamori, offering stunning views of Sakurajima and a peaceful park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for views and reflection
Nanshu Cemetery
Best Time
Best for views and reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene historical site featuring the grave of Saigo Takamori, offering stunning views of Sakurajima and a peaceful park.
"A mysterious space that includes a cemetery, shrine, and park, historically important."
🚶♂️ Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy the tranquility and historical significance. It's less crowded than other spots, offering a serene experience.
🏛️ Museum Insights
Don't miss the museum to learn about the area's history and Nanshu's legacy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nanshu's Final Resting Place
Cemetery grounds
The serene cemetery where Saigo Takamori, known as 'Saigodon,' is buried. A place of quiet contemplation and historical reverence.
Sakurajima Vista
Overlooking Kagoshima Bay
Experience a powerful and impressive view of the iconic Sakurajima volcano from this vantage point.
Historical Museum
Onsite
Delve into the rich history of the region and learn about the significance of this important location.
Mysterious Shrine
Within the park
A unique space combining a cemetery, shrine, and park, rumored to hold a mysterious aura.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity and History
Plan Your Visit Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♂️ Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy the tranquility and historical significance. It's less crowded than other spots, offering a serene experience.
🏛️ Museum Insights
Don't miss the museum to learn about the area's history and Nanshu's legacy.
🌋 Sakurajima Views
The cemetery offers a powerful and impressive view of Sakurajima.
⛩️ Shrine Visit
Visit the shrine for a spiritual experience and check for goshuin stamps.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♂️ Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy the tranquility and historical significance. It's less crowded than other spots, offering a serene experience.
🏛️ Museum Insights
Don't miss the museum to learn about the area's history and Nanshu's legacy.
🌋 Sakurajima Views
The cemetery offers a powerful and impressive view of Sakurajima.
⛩️ Shrine Visit
Visit the shrine for a spiritual experience and check for goshuin stamps.
☕ Small Shop/Cafe
There's a small shop or cafe on-site for refreshments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Nanshu Cemetery to be a remarkably peaceful and historically significant site, offering a welcome respite from busier tourist spots. The impressive views of Sakurajima are a major highlight, alongside the opportunity to learn about local history at the museum. Some mention rumors of it being haunted, adding to its mysterious allure.
"Very peaceful place. Not many tourists compared to other sightseeing spots in Kagoshima. Had a good view of Sakurajima too. There's a small shop/cafe too. Learned a lot of info about the war in,that place."
寶井サンシャイン
"Such an important location to visit in the city. So much history to learn at the museum located there. There's also a shrine where goshuin stamps are available. Must visit!"
Melissa P.
"We love Saigodon 🫶"
D PL
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nanshu Cemetery is about a 90-minute drive from Kagoshima City. While public transport options exist, driving is often recommended for ease of access.
Yes, there is free parking available within the cemetery grounds, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Nanshu Cemetery can be a great addition to a day trip exploring Kagoshima, especially if combined with nearby attractions like Sengan-en or Sakurajima.
Many visitors combine a trip to Nanshu Cemetery with other Kagoshima highlights like Sakurajima Ferry and Sengan-en Garden for a comprehensive experience.
While direct public transport might be less frequent, it's possible to reach the general area and then potentially take a local bus or taxi. Checking local bus routes in Kagoshima is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Nanshu Cemetery is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or special closures.
The cemetery itself is usually free to enter. However, there might be a small fee for the museum or specific facilities within the park.
No advance booking is typically required for Nanshu Cemetery, as it's a historical site and park. You can usually visit spontaneously.
While the cemetery is free, the museum might have different pricing. Information on discounts, if any, would likely be available at the entrance or on their official website.
Yes, visitors have reported that goshuin stamps are available at the shrine located within the Nanshu Cemetery complex.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the peaceful cemetery, admire the views of Sakurajima, visit the historical museum, and see the shrine. It's a place for reflection and learning.
Yes, the cemetery offers a unique atmosphere for photography, especially with the backdrop of Sakurajima. The historical elements also make for compelling shots.
There are rumors that it's a haunted spot, adding to its mysterious allure, but it's primarily known as a historically important location.
It is the burial site of Saigo Takamori, a pivotal figure in Japanese history, making it a significant historical landmark.
Typically, historical sites and parks like Nanshu Cemetery will have restroom facilities available for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small shop or cafe located on-site where you can get refreshments.
The immediate area might have limited dining options. It's advisable to explore dining in Kagoshima City or along your route for more variety.
Picnicking is generally allowed in park areas, but it's always good practice to check for specific rules regarding food and drinks within the cemetery or shrine areas.
While Nanshu Cemetery itself is historical, the broader Kagoshima region is known for its pork dishes and shochu. You might find these in nearby towns or back in the city.
If you're combining these, you can find food options on the Sakurajima Ferry or near the ferry terminal, and then the small cafe at Nanshu Cemetery for a lighter bite.
📸 📸 Photography
The cemetery itself, with its gravestones and serene atmosphere, is a prime spot. The panoramic view of Sakurajima is also a must-capture.
Photography is generally allowed in public areas like cemeteries and parks. However, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer dramatic lighting for photos, especially with the Sakurajima backdrop.
Drone usage is often restricted at historical sites and cemeteries due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of Sakurajima and the cemetery grounds. A telephoto lens can be useful for details within the cemetery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as an exploration of a 'historical hero's resting place' or a 'volcano viewing spot.' The presence of a shrine also offers a chance to discuss different cultures and traditions. Pack some snacks and drinks, as there's a small cafe, but having your own can be helpful for younger children.
🚶♂️ Solo Travelers & Reflective Visitors
Take your time to read the information at the museum and appreciate the historical significance of Saigo Takamori. The stunning views of Sakurajima also provide a moment of awe and connection with nature. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the local history and landscape without feeling rushed.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the expansive views and telephoto lenses for details within the cemetery. The contrast between the solemnity of the burial site and the vibrant natural landscape makes for compelling compositions. Remember to be respectful of the site's nature while you capture its beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Saigo Takamori
Visitors can learn more about Saigo and the historical context at the onsite museum. This museum provides valuable information, offering insights into his life, his role in shaping modern Japan, and the events that led to his burial at this location. It's a crucial part of understanding the significance of Nanshu Cemetery beyond just a burial ground.
The reverence for Saigo is palpable, with many visitors expressing admiration for him, sometimes affectionately calling him 'Saigodon.' This connection to a historical hero adds a unique layer to the experience, transforming a visit into a journey through Japan's samurai past.
Capturing the Views: Sakurajima and Beyond
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours – sunrise or sunset. The soft, warm light can dramatically enhance the scenery, casting long shadows and highlighting the textures of the gravestones and the volcanic slopes. The early morning mist can also add an ethereal quality to your shots.
Beyond Sakurajima, the cemetery itself offers a wealth of photographic subjects. The historical gravestones, the serene park-like setting, and the shrine all contribute to a visually rich environment. Remember to be respectful while capturing these moments, ensuring your photography enhances, rather than detracts from, the peaceful atmosphere of the site.
A Multifaceted Site: Cemetery, Shrine, and Park
Adjacent to the cemetery, you'll find a shrine, adding a spiritual dimension to the site. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to pay their respects and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. It's also noted that goshuin stamps are available here, a popular collectible for those visiting Japanese shrines and temples.
The park-like setting enhances the overall experience, making it a pleasant place to wander and appreciate the natural beauty alongside the historical and spiritual elements. This multifaceted nature is what makes Nanshu Cemetery a distinctive and memorable destination in Kagoshima.
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