What I was looking forward to most about visiting Sengan-en in Kagoshima was seeing Sakurajima with my own eyes. Sengan-en itself is beautiful, with lush greenery and a distinctly Japanese atmosphere throughout the garden. What makes it especially unique is that you can take in both Kinko Bay and Sakurajima in the distance right from the grounds.
When the weather is good, Sakurajima really stands out. Its majestic shape against the bay looks like a giant natural postcard. Sitting in the garden and slowly taking in the view feels completely different from seeing it in the city, with a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
Sakurajima is an active volcano, and sometimes you can see smoke drifting near the crater, which gives you an even greater sense of the power of nature. The calm bay in front of me together with the volcano in the distance created a blend of mountain and sea scenery that left a deep impression on me.
If you're traveling to Kagoshima, I highly recommend adding Sengan-en to your itinerary. You can not only enjoy a traditional Japanese garden, but also look out at Sakurajima from here. It's a place where you can experience history, gardens, and natural scenery all at once.
