Kagoshima, at Kyushu's southern tip, offers dramatic scenery and rich heritage, with Sakurajima, an active volcano, defining the skyline across the bay.

This private tour is by private vehicle with an English-speaking guide throughout, beginning at Shiroyama Park Observation Deck for a panoramic view of the volcano and city below.

From there, visit Sengan-en, a UNESCO World Heritage 17th-century garden built by the Shimazu clan, including the Shoko Shuseikan Museum on Kagoshima's role in Japan's industrial revolution.

Continue to Tenmonkan, Southern Kyushu's largest shopping district, with time for lunch and local treats such as shirokuma shaved ice and Kagoshima kurobuta pork (own expense).

The tour concludes at the Museum of the Meiji Restoration, tracing the storey of the young Satsuma warriors who helped modernise Japan.

As the only touring option on this route is by private vehicle, the itinerary can be adjusted within the day's allotted time to suit your interests.