Port information & tips for Kagoshima
Kagoshima is known as the "Naples of the East" and fascinates with its spectacular location at the foot of the majestic Sakurajima volcano in southern Japan. The city radiates an inviting, subtropical flair and offers an impressive backdrop for explorers thanks to the picturesque Kinko Bay. Outstanding sights include the historic Sengan-en Garden with its traditional architecture as well as Shiroyama Park, which provides a breathtaking panoramic view over the city area. Cruise ships dock at the modern Marine Port Kagoshima, located just a few kilometers from the lively Tenmonkan center. Thanks to comfortable shuttle buses and taxis, guests can easily reach the pulsating city center and the ferry terminals to the volcano in about 15 to 20 minutes.
Kagoshima, in the south of Kyushu island, impresses with a modern infrastructure and welcomes cruise guests either at the extensive Marine Port Kagoshima or the centrally located North Pier. Arrival from the DACH region is extremely comfortable thanks to excellent connections to major Japanese cities and the country's high-speed rail network.
Airplane
Kagoshima Airport (KOJ) offers fast connecting flights for travelers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland via the major international hubs of Tokyo-Haneda (HND) and Osaka (KIX). With the Airport Limousine Bus, you can reach the central Kagoshima-Chuo Station or the Tenmonkan district in about 50 to 60 minutes; additionally, taxis are available in front of the terminal at all times for a direct transfer to the port.
Train
Arriving by Shinkansen takes you directly to Kagoshima-Chuo Station, which serves as the southern terminus of the Kyushu Line and is perfectly connected to Japan's high-speed rail network. From this central hub, you can reach the terminal at the Marine Port comfortably in about 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or use the shuttle buses coordinated by many cruise lines for a direct route to the ship.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long flight duration and the time difference, we recommend arriving at least one day before embarkation and staying overnight in the city center. Hotels near Kagoshima-Chuo Station or in the lively Tenmonkan district provide the ideal starting point to visit the Sengan-en Gardens in advance and travel to the port for check-in the next morning in a relaxed manner and without time pressure.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
