Perched 108 meters above the city of Kagoshima, the “SHIROYAMA” illumination is more than a light display; it is a commanding view of the active volcano Sakurajima, framed by the romance of the winter night. This season, the legend returns.
For the 2025-2026 season, SHIROYAMA HOTEL kagoshima has revived its iconic “Dancing Fountain Show” after a six-year hiatus. Running until Valentine’s Day 2026, this event transforms the hotel’s garden into a theater of hydro-entertainment, blending the natural majesty of Kagoshima with sophisticated digital art.
⛲ Unveiling the Essence: The Dancing Fountain Returns
The centerpiece of the “Light and Fountain Night Show” is the resurrection of the performance in the Main Fountain Courtyard.
- The Spectacle: For 15 minutes, water jets dance in synchronization with music, illuminated by a spectrum of seven colors.
- The Schedule: Daily shows at 18:30, 19:30, and 20:30.
- Today’s Special (Dec 6): If you are visiting tonight (December 6, 2025), you are in luck. Tonight features a special “Bubble Performance” at 19:00 (a shift from the usual schedule), where thousands of bubbles float through the illuminated water, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
(Note: Future Bubble Show dates include Dec 13, 20, 24, and 25).
🎋 Your Insider Odyssey: The Garden Walk
Beyond the fountain, the hotel grounds offer a 350-meter walking course divided into distinct emotional zones.
1. The Bamboo Light Staircase (West Side)
Before reaching the main view, visitors ascend a staircase illuminated by “Take-Akari” (Bamboo Lights). Using locally sourced Kagoshima bamboo—the prefecture boasts the largest bamboo grove area in Japan—this sustainable illumination casts a warm, intricate, and distinctly Japanese glow, setting a serene tone.
2. The LOVE Genic Square (The Summit)
At the top of the bamboo stairs lies the “LOVE Genic Square.”
- The View: This 108m-high vantage point offers a panoramic backdrop of Kagoshima City’s night lights and the silhouette of Sakurajima.
- The Ritual: Couples can purchase a “Happiness Padlock” (¥1,200 at the Front Desk) to lock onto the “Oath Clover” monument, symbolizing eternal love.
- The Reindeer: A seasonal reindeer objet d’art provides the perfect winter photo op.
3. Star Droplets (Exclusive Zone)
Note: This area is restricted to hotel guests and restaurant patrons.
The “Star Droplets” illumination floats on the water features within the hotel, designed to mimic the reflection of stars on Kinko Bay. It is a quiet, private luxury for those staying overnight or dining in.
💎 The Elite Navigator’s Codex: Strategic Access
Access to SHIROYAMA is strictly regulated during the illumination to prevent congestion.
- The Shuttle Bus Rule: Visitors coming only for the illumination (without accommodation or restaurant reservations) must use the hotel’s Free Shuttle Bus. Private cars are discouraged for sightseeing-only trips.
- Bus Stops:
- JR Kagoshima Chuo Station (West Exit)
- Tenmonkan (In front of Kagoshima Bank Head Office)
- Drop-off: Disembark at the 1st Floor Banquet Entrance “Holt” to access the garden immediately.
📊 Kyushu Codex: Instant Insights
| Aspect | Details | Expert Reference Tip |
| Event Name | SHIROYAMA Light & Fountain Night Show | Winter Tradition 2025-26 |
| Dates | Nov 15, 2025 – Feb 14, 2026 | Daily until Valentine’s |
| Hours | 17:00 – 23:00 | Fountain shows start 18:30 |
| Admission | Free | Shuttle bus is mandatory |
| Highlight | Bubble Show (Dec 6, 13, 20, 24, 25) | 19:00 or 19:30 start |
| Venue | SHIROYAMA HOTEL kagoshima | 41-1 Shinshoin-cho, Kagoshima |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the illumination free for non-guests?
A: Yes, admission to the garden illumination is completely free. However, please respect the hotel rules and use the free shuttle bus for access.
Q: What time is the Bubble Show tonight (Dec 6)?
A: On December 6th, the Bubble Show is scheduled for 19:00. (On most other dates like Dec 13/20/24/25, it is usually at 19:30, so check the specific date carefully).
Q: Where can I buy the “Love Lock”?
A: The heart-shaped padlocks are sold at the 4th Floor Front Desk for ¥1,200.
Q: Can I see the “Star Droplets” area?
A: Only if you are a hotel guest (staying or dining). The outdoor gardens (Fountain, Bamboo Stairs, Love Square) are open to the general public.
🌟 Synthesis
The SHIROYAMA illumination is the crown jewel of Kagoshima’s winter. It combines the raw power of the volcano scenery with the delicate artistry of bamboo lights and dancing water.