🗺️ Kagoshima Astronomical Observatory Area天文館周辺

The area around the Arcades Street in Tenmonkan is the largest entertainment district in Kagoshima. With its arcades, it is unaffected by rain or volcanic ash eruptions from Sakurajima, providing a comfortable environment for shopping or strolling. It offers a variety of Kagoshima souvenirs such as Satsuma-age, light cakes, Shirokuma shaved ice, and Imo shochu, as well as local delicacies, making it an essential area for exploring Kagoshima. The arcade extends north and south from the Tenmonkan-dori tram stop, with department stores and shops located near the north side of the tram line, while the south side is filled with numerous dining establishments. In particular, the Chiyo and Yamanokuchi areas are bustling with izakayas and bars, making the nightlife vibrant. The name Tenmonkan originates from the observatory facility "Meisikan (also known as Tenmonkan)" built by the 25th Shimazu lord, Shimazu Shigehide, in 1779 for astronomical observations and calendar making. A stone monument remains at one corner of Tenmonkan-dori. The calendar produced here is called the Satsuma calendar, which aimed to increase agricultural yields by planting suitable crops in the appropriate seasons.

Enjoy shopping in the largest entertainment district of Kagoshima. On the north side of the streetcar line, there are department stores and shops; on the south side, there are numerous dining establishments and izakayas. Every year from December to January, the "Tenmonkan Lantern Festival" lighting event is held in Tenmonkan Park.