Kagoshima
Julio
We were a little drained and down after our stay in Nagasaki so when we arrived in lively Kagoshima it was super inspiring and picked our spirits right up where they needed to be. Kagoshima is situated right across from the giant active stratovolcano of Sakurajima which does dump a noticeable amount of ash on the nearby city. This does not takeaway form the charm, history and physical beauty of this unique and vibrant Japanese gem which has become a favorite for us.
We were lucky enough that our impromptu festival tour of Japan continued by dropping us in town the day before the Hinoshima Festival which takes place annually at the base of the Sakurajima volcano and features local dances, singers, fireworks and Japanese Taiko drummers. We joined the crowds of thousands of families and headed over on the ferry from the port to enjoy the festivities and get a taste for the local culture.
It was hot. Japan has been going through a record breaking heat wave since we have been here and it is a challenge to stay dry and not bake in the 93-97 degree weather. Promotional fans are given away everywhere and are always fluttering and people also use usb powered electric fans to stay cool.
As we approached the festival rows upon rows of vendors offering local delicacies such as Karaage (fried chicken), ramen, okonomiyaki on a stick. Yakitori, Kagegori, Takoyaki, drinks and host of other delicious festival treats.
The night began with a bang of fireworks as local dancers, hula halaus and singers began a beautiful scene unfolding right at the base of the towering volcano overhead spewing smoke and ash in unison. Of the perhaps ten to fifteen thousand people there we saw one westerner. We were quite the hit with local kids and young people who seem fascinated with us and some who want to try out there English skills. It a powerful and enlightening experience to travel in countries where you stick out like a sore thumb. For the last six months in Asia it has become standard and I've forgotten what its like to blend in. Keeps you on your toes for sure with all the eyes always on you.
The finale of the show featured the Taiko drummers who were a rousing crescendo to the meticulously choreographed firework show that frankly made most American sloppy fourth of July shows look archaic in comparison. After the fireworks show began the incredible process of boarding the droves of people onto ferries to return to Kagoshima city was and equal spectacle. Although a daunting task and experience we only stood on line for one hour and were back in our comfy ac room recounting our adventure.
The Hinoshima Festival at the base of Sakurajima Volcano (if you look closely you can see the volcano erupting in the background).
Incredible conveyor sushi at Mekkemon.
The sacred Unagi or river eel
Delicious Kagoshima style Ramen.
the cross in the circle are the symbol of Kagoshima.
