Tanegashima
Tanegashima, a hidden gem off the coast of Kagoshima, is an island where history, nature, and space exploration come together. Divided into three areas — Nishinoomote (西之表市) in the north, Nakatane (中種子町) in the center, and Minamitane (南種子町) in the south — it offers a mix of scenic coastlines, samurai heritage, and cutting-edge space technology. The island is also home to the Tanegashima Space Center, Japan’s largest rocket launch site. Whether you’re here to soak in the island’s natural beauty, explore historical sites, or witness a rocket launch, Tanegashima offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Transportation
Plane:
40 minutes from Kagoshima Airport to Tanegashima Airport
High-speed ferry:
1 hour 35 minutes from Kagoshima Port to Nishinoomote Port
At first glance, taking a plane might seem like the quickest way to get to Tanegashima. But when you factor in the early check-in, security checks, and baggage restrictions, it’s not as convenient as it seems. In the end, the ferry turned out to be a much better choice — not only was it slightly cheaper, but I could just walk on with my luggage hassle-free. Plus, the ferry arrives at Nishinoomote, the main hub of Tanegashima where everything is located, making it a much more convenient option.No need to rush, no extra steps—just a smooth and easy ride. If you’re heading to Tanegashima, I’d definitely recommend the ferry for a more relaxed and stress-free journey!
Map (English & Chinese)
Feel free to download the maps below for a clearer idea of how this round trip will unfold. Otherwise, without further ado, let’s dive into the itinerary!
*The English version still contains mostly Japanese, but this is the closest map I could find! Don’t worry, though — you’ll see all the recommended places explained in English in the next section.
Itinerary
This itinerary is a round trip around Tanegashima based on my own one-day adventure after spending nine days in Kyushu. You can treat this guide as an add-on to your Kyushu or Kagoshima trip, featuring some of the island’s must-visit spots — including places I had originally planned but couldn’t make it to. I’ve also made a few adjustments based on my actual experience to help make your trip smoother. Feel free to tweak it to fit your own schedule, depending on your arrival and departure times!
Nishinoomote (西之表市)
Soon after you arrive at Tanegashima, head straight to Nishinoomote first to pick up everything you’ll need for the rest of the day. (You can simply search for “Family Mart” or any other supermarkets.) Similar to Yakushima, convenience stores aren’t scattered all over the island, so it’s best to stock up on necessities like water, snacks, cup noodles, and other things before you start your adventure. This way, you’ll save time on traffic and avoid unnecessary stops along the way.
Nishinoomote is the largest city on Tanegashima and serves as the island’s main hub. It’s where you’ll find shops, local restaurants, and most of the essential services. If you’re renting a car in Tanegashima, you’ll most likely pick it up here as well. The city has a relaxed, small-town vibe, with a laid-back atmosphere perfect for picking up supplies and preparing for the day ahead. With your vehicle ready and stocked up, you’ll be all set to explore the best of Tanegashima.
Tanegashima General Development Center Gun Museum (鉄砲館)
A unique spot to kick off your trip is the Tanegashima General Development Center Gun Museum. Located just outside Nishinoomote, this museum offers a fascinating look into the island’s deep connection to Japan’s military history. Although Tanegashima is famous for the Tanegashima Space Center, the Gun Museum provides a different perspective, showcasing exhibits on firearms and military innovation. It’s an intriguing stop that offers insight into a less-explored side of the island’s past.
Urada Kaisuiyokujo Beach (浦田海水浴場)
Driving further up, we arrived at Urada Kaisuiyokujo Beach, one of Japan’s top 88 beaches. This stunning spot isn’t just about its white sand and crystal-clear waters — it’s also a one-of-a-kind destination for beachside activities. With its calm, shallow waves, it’s perfect for a relaxing swim, while the breathtaking scenery makes it an ideal place to unwind. Unlike other popular beaches, Urada offers a more secluded, peaceful atmosphere, making it a true hidden gem of Tanegashima.
Kishigasaki Lighthouse (喜志鹿崎灯台)
Continuing our drive north, we finally arrived at Kishigasaki Lighthouse, the northernmost point of Tanegashima. This scenic spot marks the very place where firearms were first introduced to Japan in 1543 when a Chinese ship carrying Portuguese traders drifted ashore. Standing tall against the endless ocean, the lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the vast Pacific. The strong sea breeze and crashing waves below create a dramatic yet peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to reflect on Tanegashima’s pivotal role in Japan’s history.
Matateno Iwaya Cave (馬立の岩屋)
Heading down the western coast of Tanegashima, we arrived at Matateno Iwaya Cave, a stunning natural wonder shaped by centuries of ocean waves. This massive sea cave, carved into the cliffs, reveals a mesmerizing view of the turquoise waters framed by its rugged rock formations. During low tide, you can step inside and take in the incredible contrast between the cave’s shadowy interior and the bright, open sea beyond.
Chikura Grotto (千座の岩屋)
After exploring Matateno Iwaya Cave, another must-visit sea cave in Tanegashima is Chikura Grotto. While Matateno Iwaya Cave is known for its rugged, secluded charm and dramatic coastal views, Chikura Grotto stands out for its sheer size — it’s said to be able to fit a thousand people (千座) inside! Located on the island’s southern coast, this massive rock formation is only accessible during low tide, allowing visitors to walk inside and admire the intricate patterns carved by the waves over centuries. The way the sunlight filters through the cave openings creates a mystical atmosphere, making it one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on the island.
We visited Chikura Grotto when the tides were quite high, which made the experience even more dramatic. With the tide rising, the water rushing in added an extra sense of power and mystery to the scene, making it feel like nature’s own grand spectacle.
Tanegashima Space Center Rocket Launch Pad (大型ロケット発射場)
Then, we headed to the highlight of the day — Tanegashima Space Center Rocket Launch Pad, the very site where Japan’s space missions take flight. As the largest rocket launch facility in the country, it’s an awe-inspiring sight to stand before the towering structures that send satellites and space probes into orbit. The coastal backdrop adds to the surreal experience, making it one of the most picturesque launch sites in the world. Whether you’re a space enthusiast or just someone who appreciates incredible engineering, this stop is an absolute must when visiting Tanegashima.
Space Museum, Tanegashima Space Centre (JAXA 種子島宇宙センター 宇宙科学技術館)
To dive deeper into Japan’s space exploration efforts, we visited the Space Museum at the Tanegashima Space Center. The museum offers an interactive look at the history and future of Japanese space missions, featuring real rocket parts, satellite models, and fascinating exhibits about JAXA’s (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) achievements. What makes it even more fun is that there are interactive games where children (and adults!) can engage in space-related activities, making it an exciting stop for families. It’s the perfect place to get a closer look at how rockets are built and launched, making the entire space center visit even more immersive.
Opening Hours & Admission
Admission for Space Museum is free of charge, and opening hours are 9:30am – 4:30pm. Cafeteria there is however, open from 12:30pm – 2pm (last order at 1:30pm) Mondays to Fridays. Make sure you either visit there early, or you might want to buy some snacks with you along the trip.
Cape Kadokura (門倉岬)
After exploring the Tanegashima Space Center, we made our way to Cape Kadokura, the southernmost point of Tanegashima. This stunning coastal spot offers some of the best views on the island, with rugged cliffs and a vast, peaceful ocean stretching out before you. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the island’s natural beauty, offering a serene atmosphere with few crowds. The panoramic views are breathtaking, especially at sunset when the skies light up with shades of pink and orange.
Dinner: Minokiti
After a full day of exploring Tanegashima, head over to Minokiti for a well-deserved dinner that’ll hit the spot. This cozy, local gem is a haven for chicken lovers, specializing in a variety of mouthwatering dishes that will leave you coming back for more. From perfectly charred yakitori skewers to savory chicken hot pots, every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re a devoted chicken fan or just in the mood for something satisfying, Minokiti knows how to elevate this humble ingredient to a whole new level. The warm, welcoming vibe and attentive service create the perfect setting to unwind and savor a truly authentic meal, making it the ideal place to wrap up your adventure-filled day!
If you’re ever unsure about what to order at a Japanese restaurant, my go-to recommendation is always Oyakodon (親子丼). It’s a simple, yet incredibly satisfying dish made with chicken and eggs served over a bowl of rice. The combination of tender chicken, silky-smooth eggs, and the savory broth is always a crowd-pleaser. Even if you’re not familiar with the menu, you can’t go wrong with this comforting classic. Trust me, it will surprise you with how delicious it is every time!
🍽️ Minokiti
- Address: 2264-4 Nakanokami, Minamitane, Kumage District, Kagoshima 891-3701, Japan
- Hours: 11am – 2pm | 4pm – 9pm
Otatsu-Metatsu Rocks (雄龍・雌龍の岩)
To cap off your day in Tanegashima, head to the stunning Otatsu-Metatsu Rocks, a pair of iconic rock formations that rise majestically from the ocean. These impressive natural landmarks are one of the island’s most famous sights, and their unique shape makes for an unforgettable view, especially at sunset. The rocks are steeped in local legend, believed to be the guardians of the island, adding an intriguing layer of mystique to the scene. As the waves crash against the rocks, you can reflect on the day’s adventures and soak in the beauty of Tanegashima, making it the perfect, peaceful end to your day on this remarkable island.
Hotel: Seiryukyou (星流峡)
After a full day of exploring Tanegashima, Seiryukyou is the perfect place to relax and unwind. With its unique dome-shaped design and peaceful setting, the hotel offers a cozy, comfortable atmosphere that makes it a great base for your island adventures. Whether you’re looking to rest or get ready for the next day’s exploration, Seiryukyo provides a perfect ending to your day. You can learn more and book your stay on their official website here.
