June to November
introduction
Lncun: Map of Japan with highlight on Kagoshima-ken; 2 March 2007
Kagoshima prefecture is a prefecture of Japan and it is the southernmost prefecture on the island of Kyushu. It covers a large number of islands around the southern coast extending halfway to Okinawa. The capital is the city of Kagoshima.
surfing
Aoki Shigenobu: Map of Kagoshima; 2006
Kagoshima lies at the far southern tip of Japan, on the island of Kyushu. The entire region is highly volcanic and extremely active. Days of high level volcanic ash are common. This prefecture consists of an impressive chain of reefs, islands, atolls and cays - almost endless variety for the surfer. So little has been adequately mapped, this is a true region of discovery for the future.
where to stay
Tokyo; Cors; 13.08.2007
In most parts of Japan you’ll find a wide range of accommodation
available both of typical Japanese and more westernised styles – as
well as more novelty variations such as capsule hotels and temple
lodgings. One note worth taking though is that all prices advertised
are per person and not per room.
Accommodation types you’re likely to come across are as follows:-
Ryokan
Ryokan are truly traditional Japan style Inns with authentically decorated rooms and Japanese meals included. These are a good option for a traveller wanting a real taste of traditional Japanese culture.
Minshuku
These are like a Japanese bed and breakfast, usually small places run by families that again offer a good Japanese cultural experience and the price includes a Japanese breakfast.
Western style hotels
You can find all the major hotel chains in Japan – particularly in the larger cities, this option can be expensive however.
Dormitories and Hostels
Backpacker hostels offering dorm style rooms can be found all over Japan for the traveller on a budget for a reasonable price and many offer single sex dorms.
Capsule Hotels
These offer bare the minimum requirement of a single bed in a capsule – no standing room – these are pretty unique to Japan and not for the claustrophobic! Though it’s worth a night in one for the novelty value, some have a mini TV in there too and all have shared bathrooms, of course.
Temple LodgingsSome Buddhist temples allow travellers to spend a night there for the cultural experience, worth doing as a one off.
Longer stays
There are many apartment blocks all over the major towns and cities in Japan offering weekly or monthly rates of rent for those wishing to stay longer – these can work out as a cheap option over a long period.