Sakurajima Island (桜島) is not exactly an island - it actually became a peninsula at the time of 1914 volcano eruption. It can be easily reached in 15 minutes by ferry from Kagoshima Port. This is an active volcano still constantly emitting smoke from the crater. Due to the very little time I've had there I've opted to take a taxi to lava field and have a walk along the shores of the island on the way back to the ferry. The ¥7,000 for half an hour ride were absolutely worth it, otherwise I would not have seen what I came to see - basically, when walking around lava field one gets covered in volcanic ash in about two minutes outside and there is no other colour except grey... Also, please note that the local transport system may be quite confusing for a 'day visitor', so: get all relevant information on travel between Kagoshima JR station and Kagoshima port (I nearly went on the wrong bus back - which would've resulted in me missing the last train back to Osaka...)
Kagoshima city (鹿児島市) is the capital of Kagoshima Prefecture and I was lucky to be there on the 'Day of Becoming an Adult' when girls are dressing up in most elaborate kimonos and, as one of the videos on the site shows, some of them may need help walking (probably those who put the traditional costume on for the first time in their lives). This, I think, is a very interesting tradition but it is a bit weird to see these girls in and around the Starbucks cafe at the Kagoshima station...