Samurai Spirit Half Day Walking Tour in Kagoshima

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.

1. 1

   Shiroyama Observatory

   10 min

   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.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   5 min

   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.

3. 3

   Saigo Takamori’s hideout

   15 min

   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.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   15 min

   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.

5. 5

   Saigo Takamori Statue

   10 min

   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.

• 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

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.