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Sengan-en

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Sengan-en

A garden loved by the feudal lords and ladies of the daimyo.

3.37 9

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Sengan-en is a Japanese garden made for the Shimadzu family estate by Mitsuhisa Shimadzu in 1658. The grounds boast a sprawling 50,000 square meters in total.
The garden itself uses the “borrowed scenery” technique, incorporating Kagoshima’s coveted spots like the volcano Sakurajima and Kinko Bay as a natural backdrop. Chinese influences are dotted across the garden, nodding at the Shimadzu Family’s international influence and trade via the Ryukyu Kingdom.

The palace inside the garden was once used as a guest house for esteemed guests visiting from in and outside Japan.
The palace is now available for tours. Inside you’ll find luxe decorations and a breathtaking view as the volcano Sakurajima looms outside. A visit here will offer a glimpse into a way of life from a bygone age.

Sengan-en holds a number of experiential Japanese culture events, including a chance to try on authentic Japanese armor (Fare applies. Advanced Reservation Required).
On the grounds you’ll also find the Shoko Shuseikan Museum, a showcase of over 800 years of Shimadzu Family’s historic culture, National Important Cultural Properties, and a number of assets that together designate this destination as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights

  • Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
  • Step into the palace for a taste of life as a feudal lord or lady.
  • Japanese garden set against with the marvel of Sakurajima and other breathtaking Kagoshima backdrops.
  • Chance to try on authentic Japanese armor.
  • Shopping and refreshment available within the gardens.

Videos

Photos

  • Sengan-en and Sakurajima

    Sengan-en and Sakurajima

  • Sengan-en

    Sengan-en

  • The Palace

    The Palace

  • The Palace

    The Palace

  • Take a commemorative photo while donning Japanese armor.

    Take a commemorative photo while donning Japanese armor.

  • Shoko Shuseikan Museum

    Shoko Shuseikan Museum

Reviews

9

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • BobbyJenny
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    Sengan-en is one of Kagoshima's most iconic gardens, with Sakurajima behind it and Kinko Bay in front, creating magnificent scenery. The grounds preserve many historic buildings and Japanese garden landscapes, with different flowers to enjoy in every season. Strolling through the garden feels especially relaxing. You can also enjoy beautiful views of the Sakurajima volcano!

  • 王小鈞
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    When visiting Kagoshima, you shouldn't miss Sengan-en.

    This Japanese garden, with more than 300 years of history, makes Sakurajima and Kinko Bay part of the garden itself. I really admire the ingenuity of the people who created it. As you stroll through the grounds, the scenery constantly changes with every step, and every angle looks like a postcard.

    There aren't many visitors on weekdays, so you can take a leisurely walk, take photos, and quietly appreciate this garden that blends nature and history through borrowed scenery. If you enjoy slow travel, it's well worth spending a morning here.

  • Jamie Wang
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    If you're in Kagoshima, you definitely have to check this place out! It's also where the Taiga drama 'Atsuhime' was filmed. Besides the beautiful gardens, you can also get a great view of Sakurajima volcano.

  • 可 可
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    The garden at Sengan-en is surrounded by mountains and water on both sides. The way the bamboo, stones, and buildings blend together creates a grand and magnificent Japanese garden. It's definitely worth a visit.

  • AW-TWBoy1999
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    Sengan-en is one of the most famous spots in Kagoshima. If the weather is good, you can see Sakurajima volcano and the whole garden view all at once. Just for this scenery alone, I highly recommend adding it to your Kagoshima travel list! 👍

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Details

Name in Japanese
仙巌園
Postal Code
892-0871
Address
9700-1 Yoshino-cho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima
Tel
099-247-1551
Closed
No holidays (The first Sunday of March will be closed because of Kagoshima Marathon.)
Business Hours
9:00am - 5:00pm
Admission
Adults: 1,600 yen, Children (6-15): 800 yen.
Access
(1) approx. 50 min. ride to the “Sengan-en-mae” stop on the “Kagoshima City View” loop line, available from Kagoshima-Chuo Station on the JR Kyushu Shinkansen.
(2) approx. 20 min. drive from Kagoshima-Chuo Station on the JR Kyushu Shinkansen.
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa