Welcome to Kagoshima, the official starting point of our journey! Upon arrival at Kagoshima Airport, nestled amidst the hot spring mountains, we’ll pick you up at the airport. Settle in, enjoy a restorative soak in the natural hot springs, and join a welcome dinner to get acquainted with your fellow travelers..

The morning commences at the historic Kirishima Shrine, Japan’s oldest Shinto sanctuary, where we will offer our respects and seek blessings for a safe passage through Kagoshima.

Just a short distance away lies the internationally acclaimed Kirishima Open Air Museum. This world-class destination seamlessly integrates monumental contemporary art installations with the breathtaking, verdant scenery of Kirishima National Park.

Next, we dive into the history of Satsuma pottery, which comes in two distinct types: Kuro (black) and Shiro (white). Historically, the black Kuro pottery—a rustic, durable, everyday ware dating back to the 16th century and made from local iron-rich clay—was commonly used by locals. In contrast, the white Shiro was exclusively reserved as gifts for royalty and nobles. In the afternoon, we will visit a Satsuma pottery studio to learn about and experience the tradition of Kuro-Satsuma.

Over the next three days, we will explore Kagoshima City. Our immersion begins with the legacy of the Shimazu clan, the powerful rulers of the Satsuma domain. By visiting their former residence and gardens, we will learn how this clan, as fierce opponents of the Tokugawa Shogunate, played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration and the opening of Japan to the world. It was also the Shimazu clan that conquered Amami Oshima in 1609, linking the island’s history to the Kagoshima prefecture we see today.

Afternoon is yours to explore Kagoshima on your own.

Tanpopo is committed to sustainability, originality, and the independence of every individual, regardless of their background or abilities. 

In Kagoshima, we visit the Nui Project, a world-renowned textile initiative that empowers artists with diverse challenges through creative expression and professional growth.

We look forward to exploring the studios at Shobu Gakuen to see this mission in action and to connect with the local fiber artists behind these unique works.

Today, we embark on a brief ferry journey to Sakurajima. This notable active volcano, situated within Kinko Bay, serves as the iconic symbol of Kagoshima. Spanning a circumference of 36 km, it remains the most active volcano in Japan. Our visit includes a stroll across the lava fields and a relaxing soak in the local foot baths. 

Welcome to the Amami Oshima Islands, the southernmost subtropical reaches of Kagoshima and the historic home of Oshima Tsumugi. Upon arrival, we will visit Amami Park and the Tanaka Isson Museum to immerse ourselves in the island’s natural beauty and learn about Isson’s profound artistic dedication to this landscape.

After checking in, take some time to unwind and enjoy the serene beaches and subtropical scenery.

Today’s focus is on the art of Oshima Tsumugi and the traditional practice of Dorozome, or mud dyeing.

With origins dating back 1,300 years, Oshima Tsumugi is celebrated for its meticulous silk weaving, complex designs, and labor-intensive dyeing process. It is widely considered one of the world’s three finest textiles, alongside Persian rugs and Gobelins tapestries.

In the afternoon, we will visit a local dye artisan, dedicated to sustainable dyeing techniques using native Sharinbai wood and iron-rich mud. We invite you to bring a piece of your own pre-loved fabric to breathe new life into it through the ancient Amami mud-dyeing process.

Today, we will set out by private bus to discover the scenic wonders of Amami Oshima.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2021, the island serves as a vital sanctuary for numerous endemic species of plants and wildlife. Our exploration includes visits to a local cane sugar producer, a traditional shochu distillery, and the island’s ancient mangrove forests. You will have the chance to experience unique regional treasures, including specialized sugar cane shochu—a spirit produced only on this island—and expansive areas of untouched, pristine wilderness.

Today, we explore the exquisite beauty of local kimonos, hosted by Reiko Hoshikawa and Yoshifumi Oota.  The morning includes a visit to the dyeing and weaving handicraft museum and a traditional shamisen, a traditional Japanese three-string instrument performance. 

Following lunch, we will view their remarkable private collection, attend a lecture, and participate in a Q&A session. We conclude the day at our oceanfront hotel overlooking the pristine Pacific, where you can relax in nature or enjoy an optional private hot tub and spa session.