Ibusuki

Ibusuki (指宿) is a city located on the southern coast of the Satsuma Peninsula in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. It is renowned for its unique sand baths, which are a popular tourist attraction.

The sand baths of Ibusuki involve burying oneself in naturally heated black sand by the hot spring water, which is said to have therapeutic benefits for the skin and joints. Visitors can enjoy a sand bath at one of the many public or private sand bath facilities in the city.

Aside from sand baths, Ibusuki also offers beautiful beaches, hot springs, and scenic views of Kaimondake, a nearby volcano often called “Satsuma Fuji” for its resemblance to Mount Fuji. The city is also home to several historic sites, including the Iwasaki Clan Residence, which was the home of a prominent local samurai family during the Edo period.

Getting there

By Train

From Kagoshima-Chuo Station:

• Limited Express: about 50 minutes, 2,300 yen, 3 trains per day
• Local train: about 70-80 minutes, 1,020 yen, 1-2 trains per hour

Both are covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

By Bus

Direct buses operate from Kagoshima City to Ibusuki.

By Car

About 1 hour drive from Kagoshima City.