Kagoshima City is a hub city in southern Kyushu, and serves as the center of politics and the economy. Formerly a castle town of the Satsuma Domain, it thrived as a result. With the opening of the Kyushu Shinkansen, expectations are high for further growth. Many housing complexes and new towns have been built in Kagoshima City, which are influencing population trends. Sakurajima is one of the city's most famous tourist spots. Access to Sakurajima is possible via the Sakurajima Ferry. Other attractions include Hirakawa Zoo and Io World Kagoshima Aquarium, and the city is characterized by its abundance of famous sites.