A Premier Shopping and Entertainment Hub in Kagoshima
Amu Plaza Kagoshima (アミュプラザ鹿児島) is the beating heart of modern Kagoshima. Located directly beside Kagoshima-Chuo Station, this bustling shopping and entertainment complex blends convenience, style, and leisure, making it one of the city’s top attractions for both residents and visitors.
From high-end boutiques and electronics stores to local souvenir shops, from casual eateries to gourmet dining, Amu Plaza offers something for everyone. Add in a cinema, arcades, seasonal events, and the famous Amuran Ferris Wheel with panoramic views of Sakurajima volcano, and it is clear why the plaza has become a must-visit destination.
Whether you are in Kagoshima for a short stop on the Kyushu Shinkansen or staying longer to explore the city, Amu Plaza is a perfect place to shop, relax, and take in the sights.
A Shopping Haven in Kagoshima
Amu Plaza Kagoshima is home to more than 200 shops, offering an impressive mix of international brands, Japanese fashion labels, and unique specialty stores. It caters to every type of shopper:
- Fashion Lovers: From casual Japanese brands to global luxury labels, the mall’s clothing and accessory stores cover all styles. Seasonal collections ensure that each visit brings something new.
- Electronics and Gadgets: Tech enthusiasts will find the latest devices and accessories, perfect for travelers looking for cutting-edge Japanese innovation.
- Lifestyle and Home Goods: The mall also offers homeware, cosmetics, and everyday essentials, making it a convenient one-stop destination.
- Local Souvenirs: Dedicated shops feature Kagoshima’s specialty products, such as Satsuma ware ceramics, shochu (local distilled spirit), sweet potato snacks, and black pork delicacies. These items make ideal gifts for family and friends.
Window shopping here can easily turn into an afternoon of discoveries, whether you are hunting for something fashionable or looking for authentic Kagoshima souvenirs.
Dining Options from Local to Global
Food is one of the highlights of Amu Plaza Kagoshima. The dining floors offer a wide range of choices to suit any taste or budget:
- Japanese Cuisine: Restaurants serve classic dishes such as sushi, tempura, and ramen. Look out for local specialties like tonkatsu made from Kagoshima’s famous Kurobuta pork.
- International Dining: Italian pasta, Korean barbecue, and Western-style cafes are among the global flavors available.
- Casual Dining and Cafes: Ideal for quick meals or breaks between shopping, with coffee, desserts, and light bites.
- Food Court: A family-friendly option offering multiple counters and cuisines under one roof.
Many of the dining spaces feature views of the city or Sakurajima, turning a meal into a sightseeing experience. Seasonal food fairs also bring limited-time menus and specialty dishes, adding to the excitement.
Entertainment for All Ages
Amu Plaza is more than just a mall. It is also a hub for leisure and entertainment:
- Cinema: The state-of-the-art cinema screens the latest films with comfortable seating, perfect for unwinding after shopping.
- Arcades and Game Centers: Popular with both children and adults, these areas are lively places to enjoy classic Japanese arcade fun.
- Seasonal Events: From winter illumination displays to summer festivals, Amu Plaza hosts events that attract locals and tourists alike.
Families often spend an entire day here, combining shopping, dining, and leisure activities without leaving the building.
The Amuran Ferris Wheel: Iconic Views of Sakurajima
One of the most distinctive features of Amu Plaza Kagoshima is the Amuran Ferris Wheel, perched on the roof of the building. Rising to a height of 91 meters, it offers sweeping 360-degree views over Kagoshima.
From the top, you can see:
- Sakurajima Volcano: The ever-present symbol of Kagoshima, sometimes with smoke drifting from its crater.
- Kinko Bay: Sparkling on sunny days and reflecting the city lights in the evening.
- The Cityscape: A bird’s-eye view of Kagoshima City and its blend of modern and traditional neighborhoods.
The ride takes about 15 minutes, and at night the Ferris wheel itself is illuminated in colorful lights, creating a striking landmark visible across the city. Couples often choose it for a romantic evening ride, while families enjoy the novelty of seeing the city from above.
Accessibility and Location
Amu Plaza Kagoshima is located right next to Kagoshima-Chuo Station, the city’s main transportation hub. This makes it incredibly convenient for travelers arriving by Shinkansen, local train, or bus.
- By Train: The plaza is directly connected to Kagoshima-Chuo Station, which is served by the Kyushu Shinkansen, JR lines, and local trains.
- By Bus: Numerous city buses stop at or near the station, with routes connecting all parts of Kagoshima.
- By Car: A multi-story parking garage provides ample space for drivers. The plaza’s central location makes it easy to reach from anywhere in the city.
The convenience of location makes Amu Plaza a popular meeting point for locals and an easy destination for tourists on tight schedules.
Seasonal Atmosphere
Each season brings a different atmosphere to Amu Plaza:
- Spring: Seasonal fashion collections arrive in stores, and cherry blossom-themed displays brighten the mall.
- Summer: Events and festivals often spill into the outdoor plaza area, creating a lively atmosphere.
- Autumn: Food fairs celebrate Kagoshima’s harvest, from sweet potatoes to local seafood.
- Winter: Christmas illuminations and New Year sales attract large crowds, making it one of the busiest times of year.
No matter when you visit, there is always something seasonal to see or taste at Amu Plaza.
Visiting Tips
- Time Needed: Allow at least two to three hours if you plan to shop, eat, and ride the Ferris wheel.
- Best Views: The Amuran Ferris Wheel is most striking at sunset or after dark, when the city lights sparkle against Sakurajima’s silhouette.
- Souvenir Shopping: Head to the dedicated local goods stores for unique Kagoshima products you cannot find elsewhere.
- Family-Friendly: With elevators, nursing rooms, and stroller rental, the mall is well-prepared for families with young children.
Why Visit Amu Plaza Kagoshima
Amu Plaza Kagoshima is more than a shopping mall. It is a modern landmark that reflects the lifestyle of the city, combining fashion, food, entertainment, and stunning views in one location.
For travelers, it is an easy and enjoyable stop directly connected to the city’s main station. For locals, it is a daily destination for shopping, dining, and socializing. And for everyone, the Amuran Ferris Wheel offers a memorable way to see Kagoshima from above, with Sakurajima volcano always in view.
If you want to experience both the modern energy of Kagoshima and its natural beauty, a visit to Amu Plaza is essential.
