Minamiosumi - Kagoshima, Japan
I wanted to visit Cape Sata, the southernmost point of Kyushu, but since there was no public transport available, I decided to rent a car. To avoid city driving, I picked up the car in Kokubu instead of Kagoshima City. Booking through the Toyota Rent-a-Car website was simple—I selected the time, car type, insurance, and location. The pickup was quick after they copied my international driver’s license and passport, did a brief inspection, and sign the paperwork. (Note: In smaller towns like Kokubu, able to speak Japanese is very helpful since English support is limited. Download translation app if you don’t.)
My first destination was Cape Sata. I chose the scenic coastal route over toll roads, and the 2.5-hour drive was stunning, with views of Sakurajima volcano and the ocean. At Cape Sata, I walked a well-kept trail past a shrine to the observation deck, where I could see Kaimondake Volcano in the distance.
Next, I headed to Ogawa Waterfalls. The 3km narrow road to the parking lot was nerve-wracking, as it was two way traffic but only wide enough for one car. After parking and paying the entrance fee, I hiked the 1.2 km trail to the falls. Though not at full flow, the waterfall and its clear waters were peaceful and beautiful. I also stopped by nearby Kawaminamisuwa Shrine.
On the way back, I visited Kihoku Astronomical Observatory to catch the sunset. The drive up the winding mountain roads was scenic, but I didn’t stay long as temperatures dropped and I wanted to avoid driving in the dark. The return to the rental location was smooth, and after refuelling, I returned the car without any issues.
Route Overview
Itinerary: Toyota Car Rental → Cape Sata 佐多岬 → Ogawa Waterfalls 雄川滝 → Kawaminamisuwa Shrine 諏訪神社 → Kihoku Astronomical Observatory 輝北天球館 → Toyota Car Rental
Distance: 263 km out & back (from Toyota Rent-a-car Kokubu Ekimae)
Duration: 10 hr (Driving time + Sightseeing)
Difficulty: Easy
Cost Breakdown
Train: Kagoshima-chuo Station → Kokubu Station — ¥760
Car Rental + Insurance: ¥9,487
Gas: ¥2,265
Food: ¥1,547
Ogawa Waterfall Entrance Fee: ¥300
Souvenir: ¥440
