Local Supporter Mai Terauchi

Local Supporter

Mai Terauchi

A Satsuma girl who loves and is loved by shochu

A Satsuma woman who loves shochu and is loved by it.
She is also passionate about Kagoshima crafts and sweets, and her dedication is strongly reflected in the shop at Kai Kirishima. It is said that by the time she finishes talking about it all, a bottle of shochu might be empty—or maybe not.

KAI Kirishima: Nestled on the hillside of Mt. Takachiho, where myths live on, every guest room offers an open view overlooking Sakurajima. In the pampas grass field reached by a slope car, there is a hot spring hut where you can enjoy bathing while overlooking the Kirishima Highlands, making it a hot spring inn where you can feel liberated in both mind and body. The dynamic dance performance depicting the descent of the heavenly grandson is also a highlight.

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Local Supporter FAQ

Please tell me some recommended spots in the Kirishima area.: It is Shiroyama Park.
While there are many Shiroyama Parks in Kagoshima, the one in the Kirishima area offers the best location for viewing Sakurajima and the city of Kirishima from the top of the hill.

Please secretly tell us some hidden gems that only a local would know.: I recommend Senri-ga-taki Falls, located a short drive up from KAI Kirishima. There is a large waterfall in a place where you might think, "Is there really a waterfall in a place like this?" so when I first visited, I walked along the path feeling half-doubtful and excited. It feels as if you have wandered into the world of a Ghibli film.
What the path to the waterfall is like is a surprise for when you go...!

What is a trip that remains in your memory?: A restaurant I visited in my hometown of Kagoshima several years ago moved to Kyoto, and because I really wanted to eat their food again, I traveled to Kyoto alone to visit it.
Not only was the presentation of the food even better, but the pairings were also upgraded, and I was moved by the non-alcoholic pairing. I was also able to talk to the chef, and I was completely satisfied, not just with my five senses, but with my sixth sense as well.

How do you spend your days off?: Once a month, I return to my parents' home (in Kasasa-cho) at the tip of Kagoshima Prefecture and drive around the town. There are many spots where you can overlook the sea, and when I watch the sunset sinking into the horizon at dusk without thinking about anything, my feelings are strangely reset.

Is there anything you always bring with you when you travel?: Earphones are essential. I recently switched to wireless earphones. It is the best to listen to my favorite music while looking at the scenery, not just while traveling. Even after the trip is over, playing the songs I listened to at that time brings back memories of the trip.