kagoshima Prefecture

Kagoshima’s Hidden Horse haven

Visit Horse Trust, Japan’s Ethical Horse Sanctuary

Kagoshima Prefecture might be best known for its active volcano Sakurajima and rich samurai history, but venture a little further into the highlands of Kirishima and you'll find something completely unexpected: a sanctuary where retired racehorses live out their days in complete freedom.

Welcome to Horse Trust, a 100-hectare haven where nearly 150 horses roam, graze, and bond with their herd under the open sky. If you're craving a slow, soulful travel experience surrounded by nature and animals, this place belongs on your Kagoshima itinerary.

And if, after reading this article, you feel inspired to book the experience, please check the prices and available days here.

How to Get to Horse Trust

Despite its quiet, countryside feel, Horse Trust is surprisingly easy to reach:

From Tokyo

Take a direct flight from Haneda Airport to Kagoshima Airport (~1 hour 45 minutes).

From Kagoshima Airport

Rent a car and enjoy a scenic 30-minute drive through rolling hills and natural springs to the sanctuary. Renting a car is highly recommended so you can explore the surrounding area at your own pace.

For those already in Kyushu, the area is also reachable by train to nearby Ōkuchi Station or by highway bus from Kagoshima City.

A Home for Retired Horses

Most of the horses here once belonged to the racing or riding world. After their careers ended, many faced uncertain futures — but not at Horse Trust. Founded by lifelong animal lover Eiji Konishi, the sanctuary was created as a safe, sustainable retreat where horses can simply be horses again.

Multiple horses on a green pasture with a mountainous view

The pastures are divided into 11 herds, and each horse is free to socialize, rest, or roam as they please. Watching them graze under the Kirishima sun is genuinely moving — this is what animal happiness looks like.

Why Kirishima?

The sanctuary sits in Isa-Yusui, a region blessed with crystal-clear spring water, nutrient-rich volcanic soil, and lush grasslands. These natural elements provide ideal grazing conditions all year round.

Set against the backdrop of the Kirishima Mountain Range, which happens to be Japan’s first designated national park, the landscape feels untouched and deeply healing — for both horses and humans alike.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Visitors are welcome through guided pasture hikes, which allow you to walk alongside herds of horses and learn about their stories directly from the team. It’s a calm, reflective, and eye-opening experience.

Want to make it even more special? Stay overnight in the on-site cottage. Wake up to horses grazing in the early morning mist with Mt. Sakurajima in the distance — it’s the kind of peaceful moment you’ll remember for years.

traditional japanese room with horses looking at the window

A Mission That Goes Beyond Animals

Horse Trust is more than just a sanctuary. It supports environmental conservation, educational outreach, and rural revitalization. By preserving vast pastures, they prevent overgrowth and maintain natural habitats. Their sustainable model is built on sponsorships, boarding programs, and a trust fund — not just donations.

For travelers, it’s a rare opportunity to connect with Japan's countryside in a way that feels both meaningful and memorable.

Nearby Places to Explore

The surrounding Isa-Yusui and Kirishima areas are full of hidden gems that perfectly complement a visit to Horse Trust. Here are a few worth adding to your itinerary:

Kirishima Art Forest

An open-air museum in the mountains featuring large-scale sculptures and seasonal exhibits by Japanese and international artists. Great for a reflective walk.
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Sogi Falls

Often called the "Niagara of the East," these powerful 12-meter-high falls stretch 210 meters across. Visit in autumn for colorful foliage views.
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Sogi Power Plant Ruins

Located downstream from Sogi Falls, these moss-covered ruins are half-submerged and completely atmospheric. It feels like something out of a Studio Ghibli film.
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Maruike Spring Water Pond

A peaceful natural spring with famously clear blue waters. Ideal for photography and a quick nature break.
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Mt. Kirishima Hiking Trails

For the more active traveler, hike to the summit of Mt. Takachiho-no-mine or Mt. Karakuni for views of crater lakes and nearby peaks.
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Where to Eat & Stay

Kagoshima is famous for its produce, and Isa-Yusui in particular is known for black pork, sweet potatoes, rice, and tea. Some places to check out:

Isa Cucina

A cozy farm-to-table Italian restaurant that uses fresh local ingredients.
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Yasōan

A relocated 130-year-old house-turned-café serving medicinal plant-based dishes. Think of it as a wellness stopover.
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Ōkuchi Distillery Second Brewery

Learn about Kagoshima’s beloved shochu through a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting.
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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quieter, slower, and more meaningful way to experience Japan, Horse Trust in Kagoshima is a beautiful place to start. Between the serene landscapes, the gentle horses, and the commitment to sustainability, this sanctuary reminds you that travel doesn’t have to be fast-paced to be unforgettable.