Sakurajima is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. In the northwestern part of the island, which gets lots of sun and drains well, there is a fan-shaped area where the cultivation of vegetables and citrus fruits thrives.

Due in part to the mild climate in winter, the famed Sakurajima daikon radishes cultivated on the island grow to an average weight of 10 to 20 kg, with the largest exceeding 30 kg, and are registered in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest radishes in the world. They have a fine texture, are tender, lack pungency and are slightly sweet. Buri daikon, or radishes steamed with yellowtail (another Kagoshima delight), is a popular winter dish.