Prefecture Directory · Kyushu
Kagoshima 鹿児島県
Kagoshima Prefecture forms the southwestern tip of Kyushu and encompasses the Amami Islands chain extending toward Okinawa. The prefecture is known for Sakurajima volcano, Shochu spirits, black pig cuisine, and the Yakushima UNESCO island. Foreign residents include technical training workers in aquaculture and agriculture and an established international community in the port city.
Healthcare landscape
Kagoshima University Hospital and Kagoshima City Hospital are the primary advanced-care facilities. The Amami Islands have their own healthcare infrastructure but depend on air medical evacuation to Kagoshima City for specialized treatment. Kagoshima International Association (KIA) provides consultation in 20 languages and coordinates medical interpretation referrals for foreign residents across the prefecture and islands.
Multilingual medical support
外国人総合相談窓口
公益財団法人鹿児島県国際交流協会（KIA）
- Phone
- 099-221-6620
- Hours
- 火〜日 9:00〜17:00（月曜・12/29〜1/3除く）
- Languages
- 25 languages
Public health center (保健所)
Kagoshima Prefecture operates public health centers (保健所, hokenjo) across its municipalities. Public health centers manage infectious disease surveillance, maternal and child health programs, and mental health consultation. Contact the prefectural health department or your municipal office to locate the nearest hokenjo.
Emergency numbers in Japan
- Ambulance / Fire: 119
- Police: 110
- Japan Helpline (24-hr English): 0570-000-911
- JNTO Tourist Helpline: 050-3816-2787 (available for medical referrals)
See our emergency guide for full details on calling an ambulance and communicating with emergency services in Japan.
Last reviewed: September 2026