</a></span>"}'/> Kyūshū (Japanese: 九州) is the southernmost of the four main islands of Japan . The climate is slightly warmer and more tropical than Honshu, and the southern and eastern coasts are regularly battered by typhoons each year. The terrain is generally mountainous with very fertile valleys much like the rest of Japan, except for the wide plain area at the top of the island - the location of the largest cities of Fukuoka and Kitakyushu .
Visit Kyushu is the official multilingual guide site for the whole area.
The islands of Okinawa , leading southwest of Japan to Taiwan , are sometimes considered a part of Kyushu, and in fact the northernmost islands in the chain are administered by Kagoshima prefecture .
Kyushu is home to dialects of Japanese that are almost incomprehensible to speakers of standard Japanese, so much so that it was used during World War II for preventing interception by the Allies of Japanese communications. Even native speakers of Japanese from Honshu often have problems understanding the conversations of locals. However, most people are able to speak standard Japanese and especially in the cities younger people may also have a decent command of English.
Fukuoka ( FUK IATA ) is Japan's busiest international hub after the trio of Tokyo, Chubu and Kansai and has excellent connections throughout Asia and Japan. All the other prefectural capitals also offer limited service within Japan and to a few major Asian cities (typically Seoul and Shanghai ).
The San'yo Shinkansen line runs from Osaka to Fukuoka and many trains continue along the Kyushu Shinkansen line to Kagoshima. All Shinkensen trains stop at Kokura Station in Kitakyushu and Hakata Station in Fukuoka ; a trip by train all the way from Tokyo takes about 5 hours by Nozomi and costs ¥23,150. There are no Hikari trains that go the full distance from Tokyo to Hakata, so with the JR Pass, you'll need to change trains. You can also go from Osaka to Hakata with the JR West San'yo Pass.
The Kyushu Shinkansen crosses the west side of the island to Kagoshima in the south. Many trains to Kagoshima start in Osaka, and the full course takes about 3.75 hours by Mizuho and ¥22,210. The JR pass is not accepted on Mizuho trains, but they are accepted on Sakura trains which make the journey in 4 hours. A journey from Tokyo (with a change in Osaka) takes a little over 6.5 hours and costs about ¥30,500, add an hour with the JR Pass for a Hikari to Sakura connection in Shin-Osaka or Okayama.
The Hakata to Kagoshima run takes about 1.5 hours. There are also good Limited Express trains servicing most anywhere of interest on the island, so you can take train from Hakata to just about anywhere else of interest on the island in about an hour in a half. The exception being Miyazaki which is about four hours from Hakata.
Willer Express is a company which provides daily night time bus services from Nagoya, Tokyo, and Osaka to Kyushu. They offer an online booking services in Japanese, English and Korean.
Fukuoka is also the gateway to South Korea via Busan by ferry, and a few ferry companies (including JR) operate the route.
The train is the transport mode of choice on Kyushu. The Kyushu Shinkansen zips across from Fukuoka (Hakata) via Kumamoto to Kagoshima in 1 hr 20 min, and there is a fairly rapid express network covering most of the island. Some scenic local lines are attractions in their own right, such as the JR Hisatsu Line (肥薩線), which runs from Kumamoto via Yatsushiro to Hayato (near Kagoshima) and is considered one of the most scenic in Japan. These lines often feature services aimed at tourists and sightseers, such as the steam-powered SL Hitoyoshi, which runs on weekends from Kumamoto to Hitoyoshi.
The Kyushu Rail Pass , available only to visitors on tourist visas, offers unlimited travel on JR Kyushu's lines, including the Kyushu Shinkansen but not the San'yo Shinkansen to Hakata . The limited express trains throughout Kyushu are fairly reasonably priced, so the 3-day pass is probably not going to save money unless you're using the Shinkansen or spending a lot of time on the train.
The prices of the pass are as follows:
Buses serve those parts of Kyushu outside the railway network, but schedules tend to be very limited. There is also a highway bus system paralleling the train network, for which reservations can be done on a portal website . They also offer SUNQ 3-4 day unlimited travel passes: 4-day All Kyushu Pass ¥14,000; 3-day All Kyushu Pass ¥11,000; 3-day Northern Kyushu Pass ¥9,000 and 3-day Southern Kyushu Pass ¥8,000.
Kyushu doesn't have any original castles, but there are still some noteworthy reconstructions and interesting ruins to explore. Kumamoto Castle ( Kumamoto ) was often considered to be the best reconstructed castle in the nation, because they not only rebuilt the castle keep, they also rebuilt most of the other structures in the castle grounds. The castle keep and many other structures were severely damaged in the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake. It has been closed since that time and works to rebuild and restore the castle are ongoing. It is projected that the keep will be completed as early as 2019 while the full restoration of all buildings and walls is not expected to be completed until the 2030s.
Saga Castle in Saga features one of the best palace reconstructions in the nation. They had to obtain special permission in order to build the palace at full scale in its authentic form due to size restrictions on wooden buildings.
You'll eat well in Kyushu. Fukuoka , in particular, has a reputation as a foodie paradise and a particularly lively street food scene, since it's the last major city in Japan that still has yatai , outdoor stalls, set up along the riverside.
Some famous (or infamous) Kyushu eats include:
Kyushu is the home of shōchū (焼酎), the fiery Japanese distilled liquor, and it's still the drink of choice in these parts: if you order "sake", you'll get shōchū, not rice wine (nihonshu). It's typically around 25%, but some varieties can be much stronger. It can be distilled from nearly anything including rice, barley, brown sugar and buckwheat. Kurokirishima (黒霧島) from Miyazaki has a distinctive black and gold label and is Japan's best selling shochu.
Another Kyushu speciality is sweet potato shōchū (芋焼酎 imojōchū ), particularly that from the ancient province of Satsuma (modern-day Kagoshima ). Imojōchū has a strong smell that many people find off-putting, but like many acquired tastes, it has plenty of devoted fans too.
Carry a cellphone with you at all times and avoid areas where there are no streetlights, people, or busy shops/restaurants (just like anywhere else!).
The Chugoku region offers many great experiences for travellers, such as:
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Say hello to fukuoka, nagasaki, oita, saga, kumamoto, miyazaki and kagoshima.
Kyushu, home to the most active volcanoes in Japan, and one of the earliest regions in Japan to receive foreigners, has a very interesting environment and history.
For the nature-inclined, visit the ethereal Yakushima Island with its ancient cedars and moss covered forests where Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke took inspiration from, the Takachiho Gorge with black volcanic cliffs flanking the blue water and Mount Aso National Park where the scenic ropeway affords a view of the world’s largest caldera.
For the history fanatics, the Nagasaki monuments, museums and memorials as well as the abandoned Hashima Island aren’t to be missed. For the cultural aficionados, the magnificent Kumamoto Castle , Yutoku Inari Shrine with a passage of torii gates, Usa Jingu and Saga pottery would be great experiences.
For the whimsical, the picturesque hot spring Yufuin town , Dutch-themed Huis ten Bosch theme park, African Safari and Hells of Beppu are great choices. And to round off your visit, hit Fukuoka City for mega-mall City Canal Hakata .
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Kyushu Island is the third largest island of Japan’s main islands located southwest of the main island. There are seven prefectures on the island of Kyushu and they offer modern cities, unique cultures and traditions, amazing cuisine and drinks, and many important historic sites. Kyushu is famous for its natural beauty as well as its volcanic peaks and a large number of high-quality natural onsen. In this article, we will briefly introduce prefectures on Kyushu Island and the best places to visit in Kyushu!
If you are planning a trip to Kyushu, be sure to check our ready to use 10 days Kyushu itinerary covering all of the highlights of Kyushu!
▼ Though, the biggest highlight of Kyushu in November takes place in Fukuoka, where the 6 times annual Sumo Tournament will be held. So make sure to get your tickets early with a professional guide on your side to get supreme experience!
Highlights of saga – 佐賀, recommended tours in nagasaki, recommended tours in oita, recommended tours in kumamoto, recommended tours in miyazaki, recommended tours in kagoshima, by air (from haneda airport), highlights of fukuoka – 福岡.
Located in the northernmost of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka Prefecture is the largest and most populated prefecture in Kyushu. Fukuoka City , the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture is a modern city with large shopping complexes, underground shopping streets, and plenty of restaurants to enjoy Fukuoka foods . The popular spots for tourists in Fukuoka City include the Tenjin area, Canal City Hakata, and Fukuoka Tower. Fukuoka is also known for its cuisine, attracting many people outside the prefecture to taste Fukuoka’s specialty foods such as Ramen noodles, Mizutaki (hotpot with chicken), Motsu nabe (hotpot with internal organ), and Mentaiko (spicy seasoned cod roe). There are also popular touristic spots scattered around the prefecture that are worth visiting. Dazaifu Temmangu Shrine is the most important Temmangu shrine in Japan, which is known as the god of education. In Nanzoin Temple , you can find one of the biggest bronze statues of Buddha in the world. Kawauchi Fujien is a large park in Kitakyushu famous for its beautiful wisterias from late April to early May. Other tourist attractions in Fukuoka Prefecture include Munakta Taisha, Kyushu National Museum, Ohori Park, Fukuoka Castle, Maizuru Park, and Sumioshi-jinja Shrine.
Saga Prefecture is a small prefecture that is famous for Japanese traditional porcelain. The town of Arita is the birthplace of Japanese porcelain and Arita porcelain is still popular nationwide. Arita Porcelain Park is a large park that contains a number of facilities including a workshop for Arita porcelain, restaurants, a Japanese sake brewery, gardens, and a museum for porcelains produced in Saga Prefecture. Another famous spot in Saga includes Yoshinogari Park , which is an outstanding archaeological site that dates back to the Yayoi Period (300 BC to 300 AC) with impressive reconstructed villages where you can explore and enter many of the houses. Other most visited places in Saga include two popular onsens (hot spring) resorts called Takeo Onsen and Ureshino Onsen, Saga Castle which was reconstructed from 2001 to 2004 and is claimed to be the largest wooden castle in Japan, and Yutoku Inari Shrine which is one of Japan’s top three shrines dedicated to Inari alongside Fushimi Inari in Kyoto and Toyokawa Inari Shrine in Aichi Prefecture.
Nagasaki Prefecture , located on the west coast of Kyushu Island, offers important historical sites and constructions due to its unique location and historical events. When the Japanese government severely limited trade between Japan and other counties between the mid-17th century to the mid-19th century, Hirado and Dejima in Nagasaki were the only ports in Japan that were open to international trade. Christianity was suppressed by the government during the Edo Period and many missionaries and their followers hid in the remote Goto Islands to secretly practice their religion. For this reason, Goto Islands offer several churches along with stunning views of great nature and a beautiful ocean. In addition, Nagasaki was the second city after Hiroshima which was destroyed by an atomic bomb toward the end of World War II. In the Peace Park built in 1955 in Nagasaki City, you can find the famous Peace Statue, fountains, memorial plate, Atomic Bomb Museum, and Peace Memorial Hall. Other most visited places in the prefecture include Glover Garden, Inasa Yama Mountain, Huis Ten Bosch, Hashima ( Gunkan-jima or Battleship Island) and Shimabara Peninsula .
Oita Prefecture is known as the largest onsen (hot spring) resort in Japan. Beppu Onsen is Japan’s most popular hot spring resort with the greatest amount of thermal water from the spring in the country. Yufuin is another popular onsen town in the prefecture that offers not only relaxing baths but also beautiful nature, art, cafes, and boutiques. Harajiri no Taki has been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls and is known as the Eastern Niagara Falls because of its spectacular scenery. Kunisaki Penisula, located in the north part of the prefecture, is home to a unique local religious culture called “ Rokugo Manzan ”, which is a mixture of Buddhism, Shinto, and mountain worship and the peninsula is dotted with dozen of historical temples, shrines and stone statues of various forms of gods. Other most visited places in Oita include Mount Yufu, Kuju Mountains, Nakatsu Castle and Usuki Sekibutsu.
Kumamoto Prefecture is also called the “land of water” where spring water flows from more than 1,000 locations across the prefecture. The Aso region, the largest inhabited volcanic caldera in the world, is one of the top tourist attractions on Kyushu Island for nature lovers. The region offers five volcanic peaks of Mount Aso in the center of the caldera with stunning volcanic landscapes and the majestic caldera scenery all year round. The Daikanbo Viewpoint offers amazing panoramic views of the Aso caldera below, the caldera rim, and smoking Mount Aso in distance, and you can drive up to the Nakadake Crater where you can look into the volcano and walk around the area if the volcanic conditions permit. Kurokawa Onsen, located about 20 km north of Mount Aso, is an attractive hot spring resort with a traditional atmosphere, and Nabegataki Waterfalls which is located not far from Kurokawa Onsen is considered by many people to be the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. Minamata City, on the west coast of Kyushu facing Amakusa Islands, was known due to Minamata Disease caused by mercury poisoning discovered in the 1950s, but in recent years the city is known as a model environmental city promoting recycling and environmental programs. In Minamata City there are several museums and educational facilities about Minamata Disease and the environment. Kumamoto City, the capital of Kumamoto Prefecture, is best known for Kumamoto Castle which is one of the largest and most complete reconstructions of castles in the country.
Located along the southeastern coast of Kyushu Island, Miyazaki Prefecture is known for its beautiful nature, warm climate, and important sites related to Japanese mythology. Takachiho Gorge is a v-shaped valley that appeared in Japanese mythology and is known as a power spot filled with spiritual energy. The stunning views of the gorge and the beautiful Manai Waterfalls can be enjoyed on foot or by a rowboat which gives you close access to the waterfalls. Kirishima Mountain Range consists of about 20 volcanic mountains lying on the border between Miyazaki and Kagoshima Prefectures which offer a wide range of trekking courses for beginners as well as for experienced hikers. The warm climate of the prefecture also attracts many people for marine sports, and especially Aoshima Island is famous as a top surfing spot where you can enjoy surfing all year round. When you are in Miyazaki, do not forget to try shochu which is Japan’s oldest distilled alcoholic beverage made from various ingredients including sweet potatoes, rice, buckwheat, and brown sugar. Almost any restaurants and bars offer several kinds of shochu.
Located in the southernmost part of Kyushu Island, Kagoshima Prefecture features invigorating nature, unique hot springs, fresh seafood and amazing local cuisine. One of the most famous and popular spots in the prefecture is Yakushima , a small island located about 60 km south of Kyushu mainland, with towering mountains and ancient cedar forests. Some of the cedars are said to be over 2,000 years old. The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine on Yakushima with mossy-green woods and babbling streams is famous for being the inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animated film Mononoke Hime (Princess Mononoke).
Other tourist attractions in the prefecture are Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima which are other islands belonging to Kagoshima. These islands are popular destinations for their beautiful beaches with white sand, clear warm water, and colorful corals and aquatic life, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Amami Oshima is also famous for Oshima Tsumugi silk which has been used for high-quality kimono for centuries. Tokunoshima Island is known for a variation of bullfighting called togyu . Satsuma Peninsula offers several tourist spots including natural sand baths in Ibusuki Onsen and Chiran , a small town with houses and gardens that date back about 260 years, Mount Kaimondake, also known as Satsuma Fuji because of its resemblance to Mount Fuji, and Cape Nagasakibana which offers stunning views of the Mount Kaimondake and surrounding area.
To Fukuoka Airport (~1h50m) To Kitakyushu Airport (~1h40m) To Miyazaki Airport (~1.5hrs) To Kumamoto Airport (~1h40m) To Nagasaki Airport (~1h50m) To Oita Airport (~1.5hrs) To Kagoshima Airport (~1h40m)
From Tokyo Station, take Tokai Sanyo Shinkansen to Hakata Station in Fukuoka (about 5 hours) From Hakata Station, take Kyushu Shinkansen which stops at Hakata (Fukuoka), Shin-Tosu (Saga), Kumamoto, and Kagoshima.
From Shin Osaka Station, take Kyushu Shinkansen which stops at Hakata (Fukuoka), Shin-Tosu (Saga), Kumamoto, and Kagoshima. From Shin Osaka to Fukuoka, it will take about 2.5 hours, and from Fukuoka to Kagoshima it will take about 1.5 hours.
If you are interested in night views of Seto Inland Sea, there is a ferry which leaves from Osaka-Nanko Port in the evening (5pm or 7.50pm) and arrives at Kitakyushu Shi Mojiko Port in the morning (5.30am or 8.30am). The ferry ride takes about 12 hours.
We hope that this overview of Kyushu is useful for you to make plans for your visit. There are many places in Kyushu with poor public transportation connections. A rental car or guided tour will make your trip easier and more time efficient. Read Perfect 10 Day Itinerary For Your Kyushu Trip on our blog before you go!
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Happy traveling!
Jackson Groves
Posted on Last updated: June 24, 2023
Categories JAPAN
Kyushu is a volcanic island in the south of Japan with some pretty epic coastlines, incredible waterfalls, and several towns that are renowned for their volcanic hot spring activity. Kyushu is a great region for those who enjoy an adventure like to delve into the culture and get a little bit off the beaten path. I spent three weeks exploring the island of Kyushu by car and in this blog post, I will share with you my favorite 30 things to do in Kyushu based on my experience.
When you book your Rental Car online, I personally recommend and always use Klook for car rentals in Japan. They search for both local and international companies, so you get the best deal!
I’ve written individual guides for many of the specific locations in this article, which means you can click on the link and view the detailed guide for each individual location, which includes how to get there, all the photos, and what to expect. At the bottom of this post, I will add a few sections of things you need to know before exploring Kyushu such as how to get around, where to stay, and other logistical and travel tips to help you out before your visit.
The journey to Onbara Falls is a very, very short trek but will remove you from the town of Beppu and immerse you in the jungle making you feel lost beneath the falls. Onbara Falls is a bit of a hidden gem just outside the town of Beppu in Oita Prefecture of Kyushu, Japan. Beppu is one of the most famous Onsen towns in Japan and even the world. However, amidst all of the hot springs and Onsens are some truly epic waterfalls and Onbara Falls is up there with the most beautiful and most accessible.
The trail is short and well-defined with a dirt/rock path leading you up to the falls. With the morning sun shining through it was actually a beautiful little walk, which is only about 2km return.
Read the full blog post for details: ONBARA FALLS IN KYUSHU, JAPAN
Mount Karakuni is the highest peak in the Kirishima Mountain Range of Kyushu Island in Japan with a height of 1,700 meters. Mount Karakuni has a volcanic crater, which is 900 meters and 300 meters deep. The hike up from the visitor center is relatively short with just a few kilometers in distance but quite steep. From the summit, you can look over to the ‘Ring of Fire’, which is the off-limits
The total hike distance for me was 9.6km for my entire lap of the Kirishima area but there are many ways to make it shorter. If you just go up and down Mount Karakuni from the visitor center it will be about 5-6km in total. I added on the lap of Lake Rokkannonmiike and Lake Byakashiike.
Read the full blog post for details and all photos: MOUNT KARAKUNI HIKE (KARAKUNIDAKE) IN KIRISHIMA
The Mount Taharayama hike leads you on a steep ascent up to an epic, rocky ridgeline before you descend down into the forest to discover a 10th century stone buddha carving into the cliff wall. It’s an adventure with a tomb-raider vibe and is definitely sure to have you off-the-beaten-path and out there amongst the adventure in the Oita Prefecture of Kyushu Island, Japan.
Read the full blog post for details and all photos: MT. TAHARAYAMA HIKE TO KUMANO MAGAIBUTSU (BUDDHA STATUE)
Inukai Falls was probably my favorite waterfall that I visited while based in Kirishima. It was a booming waterfall but I really loved the gorge that led up to the falls, which was lined by woodland and forest giving it a Pacific Northwest vibe. I actually had to wait a while here for the fog to clear enough to see the falls but when it cleared a little, I was able to record a little video on the drone to show you just how epic this gorge is.
In the Aso region of the Kumamoto Prefecture in the center of Kyushu Island is the Mount Aso region, which is one of the largest calderas in the entire world. Hiking in Mount Aso Region is one of the most incredible adventures you can have in Japan. Mount Aso is a volcanic depression, which is essentially a huge crater that has a number of peaks within this region that can be trekked. There are numerous craters within the crater such as the very active Nakadake Crater.
The Caldera spans 17 kilometers from east to west and 25 kilometers from south to north with a total area of 350 square kilometers. When we talk about this caldera it is a huge area but at the center of the caldera is where all of the action is when it comes to volcanic activity, hiking, the museums, and tourism. In the middle of the caldera is the central crater group which consists of the five Aso peaks which are Mt. Taka (Takadake), Mt. Naka (Nakadake), Mt. Eboshi (Eboshidake), Mt. Kijima (Kijimadake) and Mt. Neko (Nekodake).
I hiked all of the peaks except for Kijima. The Nakadake and Takadake loop (when open) is my favorite hike in Kyushu… by far. It looks down on the active volcano crater and makes you feel like you are in outer space or trekking through a post-apocalyptic world.
Read the full blog post for details and all photos: HIKING MOUNT ASO VOLCANO – A COMPLETE GUIDE
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Found on the border between Oita and Kumamoto, Nabegataki Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls on the island of Kyushu in Japan. With hundreds of waterfalls on Kyushu, what makes this one so special? You can actually walk behind the wide cascade, underneath the rock face that the waterfalls pour down over. It’s a pretty magical spot.
I did my best to shoot the waterfall without any tourists but it is quite difficult as most people do a little lap underneath the waterfall viewing it from in front, each side and behind. It’s a bit of experience and going behind the waterfall was super cool. The waterfall itself is only 10m high but spans 20m across in width and pours down over the ledge, which is what makes it so unique.
Read the full blog post here: NABEGATAKI FALLS IN KYUSHU
Mount Eboshi is one of the five peaks of the central cone group of the famous Mount Aso. It’s the easiest peak and probably the safest peak to climb taking just over an hour to get up and down from the summit. The view from the top is quite remarkable as it looks out over the Nakadake Crater, which is where the active volcano of Mount Aso is found.
The Mount Eboshi hike is a great little trail not because of the views or the adventure but because it is usually open! Because Nakadake Crater and the active volcano within it are often spewing ash high into the air, the surrounding trails are often closed. This leaves adventurous hikers feeling a bit stuck. Luckily Eboshi is a bit further away but you still have nice views of the erupting volcano.
At the summit, you have a view out to Nakadake Crater, which is where the eruptions, smoke, and all the action takes place. In the other directions, you can witness the entire caldera and the various rock formations and craters that are scattered throughout the region. I visited Mount Eboshi as part of the ‘ Around Aso Tour ‘, which was the perfect way to explore this region on a full-day trip from Fukuoka.
Read the full blog post for details and all photos: MOUNT EBOSHI HIKE (EBOSHIDAKE) IN MOUNT ASO
Higashi Shiiya Falls is a pretty epic waterfall just out of Beppu Town. When you arrive you will park in the parking lot of the information center and pay your entrance/parking fee and then make the 800m along the river and through the gorge to reach the waterfall. It’s a really pretty walk and I can’t imagine how scenic it would be with the fall colors. At the end of the gorge is a massive waterfall flowing into a giant circular pool.
Mount Neko is the second tallest peak in the Mount Aso region at 1,443m high for the Tengu Peak and the opposite Toho Peak is 1,408m high. It’s called Nekodake because from Aso it looks like two cat ears when you see both of the peaks. It was an awesome but steep hike and the jagged peaks were just incredible at the summit during sunset.
As well as the numerous ropes to help you up the summit of Nekodake, you will also encounter several ladders, helping you ascend through the forest. None of the ropes, ladders or bouldering is technical or very difficult but be prepared for a bit of action along the trail.
At the summit, you will look out across to the Tengu Peak, which is the most prominent peak and you really can’t miss it. In the late afternoon, the sun sets behind this peak so it’s a really magical spot to take in the whole ridge.
Read the full blog post for details and all photos: MOUNT NEKO HIKE (NEKODAKE) IN KYUSHU
There are four pieces of gear that I simply never travel without. These are four items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my travel essentials.
The Gorogotaki Waterfall is the largest falls in Yamato, Kumamoto with a 50m drop into the basin below. The beauty of this waterfall on Kyushu Island is that often it is crowned by a rainbow as the water crashed down onto the rocks, spraying up and catching the light perfectly in a stream of color. My favorite part about this waterfall is that you view it from the suspension bridge. There is also a really nice walk around the region through the rice fields and through the gorge to the base of the falls.
Read the full blog post here: GOROGOTAKI WATERFALL NEAR KUMAMOTO
Daikanbo Viewpoint is probably the most impressive views in the Mount Aso Region with epic views across the valley within the caldera to the active volcano within Nakadake Crater. There are lots of little trails and a number of viewing platforms to explore at the viewpoint. It can be a great spot for sunrise on a day with low-lying fog so if you are good at weather predictions try and make that happen. I visited when the grass was dead in the winter but the colors change all throughout the year.
The stunning Kuju Mount range is part of the Aso-Kuju National Park and while Mount Kuju might be the most famous it is actually the nearby Nakadake Peak that is the highest peak in the park, which makes it the highest point on Kyushu Island. These mountains are connected by a series of hiking trails so you can kind of make it up as you go, pushing on to ‘one more peak’ time and time again or follow a set route. I did a bit of both.
It’s straight up from the get-go so don’t put too many jackets on you will be working that incline straight away. Once you reach the ridge it’s time for the adventure to start. The trail turns into a rocky ridgeline with a number of ladders and some very low-key bouldering required.
The total day of climbing was 1,026m so it’s always an effort when you grab a vertical kilometer. The trail was rocky but quite well defined and we never had too many difficulties finding our way. At the top of Mount Kuju we could watch over the erupting Mount Aso in the distance and admire the valley below.
Read the full blog post for details and all photos: HIKING THE KUJU MOUNTAIN RANGE
Hidden in the foothills on the way to Mount Aso region on the way from Kumamoto is Shiraitono Falls. It isn’t a hike or a big adventure and you can actually just drive and park only fifty meters away from the waterfall. The golden light was hitting the waterfall in the late afternoon, which created an epic little scene where everything was in shade except for the golden stream of water flowing down.
The ‘Hells’ of Beppu, as they are known, are seven incredible hot springs all in one area. Unlike many of the onsens or hot springs in the area, these specific hot springs are for viewing only as they are far too hot for bathing. They are quite a tourist attraction and it almost looks like zoo enclosures but instead of almost there is a bubbling, steaming pool of volcanically heated water. The reason these ‘Hells’ are so unique is that they each have a different feature such as the orange Hell or the deep blue Hell. I thought the experience of visiting the Hells of Beppu was quite cool but very touristy.
I visited the Beppu Hells as part of this full-day tour from Fukuoka including the Beppu Hells and Yufuin Spa Town.
Takachiho Gorge is one of the most incredible natural attractions on Kyushu Island, Japan. In the forest of Miyazaki, the Gokase River runs through a gorge comprised of volcanic basalt columns where the 17-meter high Minainotaki Waterfall pours down on the awe-struck tourists below who are paddling the iconic rowboats through the narrow chasm.
Kyushu Island is beautiful in the summer and the fall, which are the most popular times for tourists. In the fall you get the beautiful tinged orange and different colors on the trees and in the summer you are blessed with the best weather. I visited in the winter, which was not the prettiest time as lots of the leaves were dead so there were plenty of sparse trees. However, Takachiho Gorge was at a lower elevation and in a spot that was still beautiful and green in the winter. The conclusion is pretty much that it is a year-round attraction, which will only differ slightly at various times throughout the year.
As I said above, Takachiho Gorge is a bit hard to get to with public transport so unless you have rented a car, the best way to get there is on the Takachiho Gorge Day Tour . The tour includes drop-off and pickup from your hotel, an English-speaking guide for while you are at the gorge. Helen the guide is an absolute legend and we loved this tour and this epic location.
CLICK HERE to check rates and availability for the Takachiho Gorge Day Tour
Mount Kaimon (Kaimondak) is an inactive volcano along the coast in the south of Kyushu known for its conical shape. The Mount Kaimon hike leads you through the forest on a steep, rocky trail up ladders and boulders to the summit where you are rewarded with coastal views from the top of the volcano.
The trail begins with an incline from the very first moment as you wind your way through the woodlands at the base of the volcano. It was a very beautiful part of the trail as the sunlight shone through the trees and into the mini canyons created by erosion on the path. At some points, the walls on either side of the trail were above head height, which added a unique atmosphere to the trail.
Read the full blog post for details and all photos: MOUNT KAIMON HIKE (KAIMONDAKE) IN KAGOSHIMA
The Kamoshikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine is hidden in the forests near Takamori, which is a little town in the Aso region of Kumamoto. It’s a very spiritual spot with lots of different spots to make prayers, receive good luck and perform a ritual. For example, you can touch the Hogeto Iwa Stone and you are said to be granted good luck, and the shrines sacred Nagi Tree is said to protect relationships. The Kamoshikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine is the inspiration of the manga ”Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light” which was written by Yuki Midorikawa.
It’s an incredibly beautiful place with a forest stairway leading up to the shrine and then a huge underpass/cave where you can throw a coin onto the ledge for good luck.
Yaesono Falls is a sweet little roadside waterfall, which you will find on the way to the Mount Karakuni hike in Kirishima. It’s probably not worth an adventure all on its own because you just park next to the road and check it out without needing to hike. However, if you are heading up to the Kirishima mountains for a hike it is only a small detour and is quite a nice waterfall surrounded by trees.
Kyushu is famous for its hot springs and it is one of the most volcanic places in the world. It is Beppu that is at the center of this volcanic activity when it comes to onsens and hot springs with hundreds of different onsens, spa-resorts, and hot springs to test out. It’s definitely an experience you want to try at least once. The general premise of an onsen experience is that you will arrive fully clothed, strip down to naked, and then bathe in the hot spring water with the other locals and visitors. The minerals, temperature, and meditative experience are said to be very beneficial for your health.
I visited Hoyoland Onsen as they allowed people with tattoos to bathe whereas many do not due to traditional laws. There are lots of very scenic onsens to choose from but make sure you try it at least once as this is the most cultural experience you can have and one of the best things to do in Kyushu.
I didn’t take a photo at the onsen as it isn’t allowed and would be very weird as everyone is naked so I’ve added in a stock photo below to show you what it looks like.
Keya no Oto is a beautiful coastal viewpoint of Itoshima, which has incredible views of the beach from the ominous ridgeline and a 64m cave below! You can hike all the way up onto the top of the ridge as there is a bit of a trail, which includes some basic bouldering/rock climbing. It isn’t a trail I would recommend unless you are athletic and adept at bouldering and climbing.
Atop the ridge, it was a very narrow path. A 50m+ drop on either side meant we had to focus on our steps until we reached a safer, wider spot on top of the ridge. We took a moment to relax up here, taking in the view of the beach and down to the volcanic cone at the other end of the coastline.
Read the full blog post for details and all photos: KEYA NO OTO HIKE IN ITOSHIMA
This is a bit of a strange one because the access was limited due to construction going on. There is usually a viewing point but I’m not sure if it will still be closed or not. We managed to fly the drone to still check out the waterfall but normally you can view it from the platform. Nevertheless, it was one of the most powerful waterfalls I came across on Kyushu Island.
While I was based in Beppu I headed up for sunrise one morning to hike Mount Yufu. It’s known as being quite a tough hike due to the consistent incline and relentless switchbacks that lead you up to the two peaks at the summit. However, on the day I visited, it was covered in the cloud at the top. We saw deer along the way and really enjoyed the hike. I know the view from the summit is pretty epic so I’ve added it onto this list with a photo from a day with better weather. It was a 7km round trip with more than 700m of an incline up the switchbacks. I’ve included a photo below of the view from the top and the view from below on a day in better conditions than when I hiked. Keep in mind, it is known for being a peak that is hard to catch on a clear day so do pick the best day of the week regarding weather.
If you are staying near Kirishima then Ryumon Falls is definitely a spot I would recommend. It isn’t too far from Kirishima town and is a pretty epic waterfall. There is a small parking lot and then you walk about 500 meters to the viewing platform. You can go down closer to the base of the falls as well but it was a stormy, misty day when I visited and I was the only one there. I decided to just enjoy the view from the platform and snapped a photo from right there.
When you stay in the town of Beppu, you will always notice the mountains looming at the back of the valley. The highest point is called Mount Tsurumi and it’s actually possible to reach by cable car. However, there is a trail to the top if you are up for the very steep challenge. Of course, if you are just in it for the view, take the cable car but for those who love the adventure and want to spot some deer along the way the trail starts just around the backside of the cable car parking. Drive an extra half mile up the road past the cable car parking and you will find the trail entrance on the right side of the road. It’s on maps.me if you can’t find it.
At the summit, you have a beautiful view down over the town of Beppu and the entire beach. Just like Mount Yufu, on the day I visited, the weather was quite poor visibility with heavy fog so I have included a photo from a clearer day so you can decide if this is a hike you are keen to add to your Kyushu bucket list.
Sekinoo is a pretty popular waterfall that has a suspension bridge viewing point. I visited it on the same day as Ryumon, Inukai, and the Kinzan Bridge so they are all within reaching distance of each other. This waterfall has a short walk down a forest path, which leads you to the suspension bridge where you can get up close enough to feel a bit of spray on a day with a heavy flow!
While the Kinzan Bridge waterfall is the biggest falls on Kyushu Island, it is a pretty unique little spot. The bridge is actually a serviceable road I used several times while exploring Kirishima and you can get down to river level for photos. I did take this shot from the drone as I floated it under the bridge while a meter or so above the water. There’s a small trail along the side of the river but parking is right next to the bridge so it is a good little pit stop but not the highlight of the day with Ryumon, Sekinoo and Inukai the bigger waterfalls in the area.
La Puta Road was a bit of a local secret until a few years ago when the location gained some serious popularity. All around the edge of Mount Aso caldera are some epic viewpoints but the La Puta Road is really a sight to behold. There is a winding road that just needs to be seen to be believed as it snakes its way along the precarious cliff edge. It’s important to note that technically this site is now closed due to a landslide and it is simply not possible for cars to drive this route anymore. You can just walk up the hill for a bit of a look from a safe spot though although there were some temporary blockages to the walkway. Enter at your own risk on this one as it is technically closed although walking to the hill viewpoint is not of high danger compared to going down near the road where the landslides were. I’ve seen some epic, epic photos here when the grass is green and low-lying fog makes it look like the road is simply floating on clouds.
Kumamoto Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in all of Japan with it’s large, scenic grounds and a variety of buildings it offers visitors a complete castle experience. It is one of a few structures that have survived the centuries since it’s construction in 1607. There have been a number of maintenance and reconstructions but it is one of the most well-preserved castles in Japan. It’s best to visit the castle from March to April when the 800+ cherry blossoms are in full bloom making the entire area a fairytale location.
There are lots of great places to view Sakurajima Volcano but I really enjoyed the little Susuhara viewpoint all to myself as I watched the plumes come out of the very active volcano near Kagoshima. I actually stopped off here on the way to the Mount Kaimon hike but there were lots of different viewpoints with great views of Sakurajima Volcano so if not Susuhara, make sure you stop somewhere along the way to observe this epic volcano.
The Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi Suspension Bridge is in the west of Oita and is the longest and highest pedestrian bridge in all of Japan! From the bridge, you look down 173-meters below to the Naruko River which sits in the steep gorge. From the bridge, you can see the Kuju Mountains and the Handa highlands as well as several waterfalls nearby.
Just before you get into Beppu make sure you stop at the Kunimigaoko Viewpoint where you will have the best views over this famous hot spring region. I was there in the middle of the day so the lighting was a bit tough but if you came up here for sunrise or sunset you would be in for an absolute treat as you will see the beautiful colors of the ocean as the light peaks over the mountains.
While the train may suit those in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and even in Fukuoka, it won’t cut it out here on Kyushu. The trains will get you from major towns and even into some regional areas with bus connection but almost all of the adventure sports I visited had no bus connection. When I searched on Google Maps and clicked the public transport option it would just say ‘not available’. It was very clear, very quickly that Kyushu island is best to explore by car, especially if you are doing hikes and activities outside of the city (literally everything on this list).
*** It is extremely important to know that you MUST HAVE an international driver’s license to rent a car in Japan. In fact, they won’t even look at your actual driver’s license and only want to see the international driver’s license. Take that seriously as they genuinely will not give you the car and likely no refund if you don’t have that. To get one you need to be in your country of residence and you can get one on the spot or order online and receive it in a week or so. Make sure you organize that in advance as I almost got caught out not knowing that.
I visited in February, which was winter and freezing. I don’t advise it but it was still epic. The best time to visit Kyushu is most definitely not winter. It’s not really a ski destination so likely you will be freezing and all of the leaves will be dead so the landscapes will not be as beautiful as other times of the year. There are a few drawcards to each season so I will go through them below.
For a full list of the top-rated places to stay in Kyushu, you can check out my comprehensive guide: WHERE TO STAY IN KYUSHU: BEST REGIONS & HOTELS
I spent over three weeks exploring Kyushu and visited some incredible waterfalls, hiked some amazing trails, and visited a number of epic volcanoes. I created a number of guides to help travelers find the best spots in Kyushu. You can explore the articles by clicking on the links below.
Monday 21st of March 2022
I've hiked, biked and road tripped around Aso several times but I still found several things here that I haven't seen yet and will have to check out this time! Thank you!!
Friday 16th of April 2021
I've been to Kyushu many times but there are still so many places to check out! Beautiful photos, and thanks for giving me a few more ideas. Counting down the seconds until I can get back there again.
Saturday 17th of April 2021
It's such an underrated hiking destination!
Perth Is Ok
Friday 12th of February 2021
kyushu one of the amazing place to visit in Japan. There are many famous places which attract the people around the world. You have mentioned best things to do in Kyushu. Thanks for this blog.
Wednesday 10th of February 2021
I am a photographer and love to explore world with my camera. In 2018 i was there for 15 days tour, and that was my best ever journey, lots of new foods, culture and temples i have seen there, even the language i tried to learn, but failed! Apart from all, i enjoyed a lot. Your article remind old days, Thanks for sharing wonderful post.
Stella Wilson
Wednesday 7th of October 2020
Hi Jackson, Wonderful blog. I really like the way you write. It is one of the best blogs I have read on Kyushu. Thanks for sharing these beautiful photographs. I am travelling to this amazing place in December. Looking forward to reading more of these articles.
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A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, 7-day kyushu itinerary: where to go and what to see in kyushu.
The hardest yet most exciting part of traveling is often the planning stage and narrowing down where to go given the time you have. I visited the Kyushu region in Japan this past September. This is how I planned (and nearly failed to follow said ambitious plan) for the trip!
1. Narrow down the city you want to visit – Kyushu is a huge region, and if you have limited time, you need to narrow down the experiences you want to see. No joke – whenever I am in a trip planning mode, I would open up google maps and see if there are any familiar names in the vicinity. I immediately zeroed in on the familiar cities: Hiroshima (not really in Kyushu but it’s very close), Fukuoka , Nagasaki, Kumamoto , and Kagoshima.
2. Plan out the order to visit the places you want to go to – Once again, I used google maps to see where each place are in relative to each other, then I checked the train routes to map out the best ways to travel between these cities and how long the journey would take. Once I’ve done this, it became clear that we needed to make Fukuoka our base since it’s the center point of the cities we’ve picked.
3. Look into getting a rail pass to save money – JR Pass is the train pass that allows you to take intercity trains in Japan for cheaper. The sights to see in Kyushu are spread apart in different cities, so unless you’re planning to only visit one city, you will definitely need the JR Pass as you’ll likely be using the train to move around. You can buy Unlimited JR Pass or JR Kyushu Pass . Scroll down to the end of this post for more information about the JR Pass and which one is more suitable for you.
🚆 Book train ticket online: Purchase Japan train ticket via Klook for easy redemption at the station once you’re in Japan.
4. Check the first and last train out of the city – I also checked for the first and last shinkansen out between cities so that I know the earliest time I can get to a city and the latest time I can leave. This helps me narrow that what activities I can do in the city.
5. Account for travel fatigue – I have to admit I got over-excited when I planned for this trip. I was really intent on hitting up all 5 cities in 7 days. My biggest advice here and a lesson I had to learn is to account for travel fatigue. You can’t feasibly be moving every other day and not get tired by the end of it. All of the cities I mentioned above are great destinations that I don’t want to miss – but it is very ambitious to hit up all five in 7 days. I had to sacrifice visiting Kagoshima since it isn’t convenient to get to if I want to also include Nagasaki in the itinerary.
In the end, after all the research, this is the Kyushu itinerary I went with:
Here are some places you can consider visiting in Kyushu:
Fukuoka is the biggest city in Kyushu. It’s a great starting point for Kyushu – lots of direct trains leaving Hakata station, the main station of Fukuoka. Aside from that, they are also known for food! Yep, the Hakata ramen is actually from Fukuoka! You can read about the food in Fukuoka and Yatai stalls here .
Nagasaki needs no introduction, the city offers an extensive insight into Japan during the World War II period. Although they are mostly known for its bleak fate as the site of the second atomic bombing, Nagasaki holds an important place in Japanese history. During the era of seclusion called Sakoku, the Japanese were forbidden to leave the country, and the only foreign trade allowed within Japan was done through a manmade island in Nagasaki, called Dejima. Nowadays you can see history from the seclusion period as well as the era that follows after – the Dutch, Portuguese and Chinese influences from the 16-19th century when Nagasaki becomes the only open port in Japan.
In 2016, Kumamoto was hit by a series of very strong earthquakes. However, it’s still interesting to see the city after the earthquake. The Kumamoto castle, for one, was able to sustain the strong 7.0 earthquake, just as its Japanese architects had intended when the castle was built four centuries ago.
You can also do a road trip or tour to Mount Aso , one of the most beautiful areas in Kyushu. Kumamoto is a very doable day trip from Fukuoka. Read about my day trip to Kumamoto from Fukuoka here .
I did not make it to Kagoshima due to limited time in Kyushu, but I wish I had made it down here. Kagoshima is a seaside city in Kyushu and is best known for Sakurajima, a volcanic mountain often referred to as Japan’s Vesuvius. Aside from that, Kagoshima is also well known for its food and produce – most notably, the Kurobuta aka black pig, which is highly regarded in Japan for being high in protein and low in calories. Kurobuta is normally eaten in shabu-shabu style, aka Japanese hot pot.
If you have time and are interested in nature, you can also visit Yakushima, an island off the coast of Kagoshima. The island is covered in cedar forest that contains some of Japan’s oldest living trees – some as old as 7,000 years.
Beppu is a spa resort town, known for its range of onsens (Japanese hot springs) – they have over 2,000 onsens in Beppu! Aside from the usual hot springs, they also have sand baths, mud baths, and steam baths. You can relax in one of the Japanese’s favorite past times – a bath in the hot spring and eating Onsen food after. You can reach Beppu by train from Fukuoka, but if you’re a true Onsen enthusiast, you might want to check out this Beppu and Yufuin Onsen spa tour , which includes hotel pick-up and drop-off!
Tips for booking hotels.
Here are the hotels we stayed in each city. Each of these is very close or attached to the main station of the city, so they are located in a really good location.
I have been to Japan many times before, but I’ve never used the JR pass. Getting a JR Pass only makes sense if you are moving around from city to city, it didn’t make economic sense to get the pass. But when visiting Kyushu, there is a big chance you need the JR Pass since the attractions in the Kyushu region span many cities.
JR Pass and Shinkansen: I’ve written all about JR Pass and taking Shinkansen in Japan in this guide here .
That’s all! It might seem complicated, but after doing this a few times it’s pretty easy 🙂
Are you planning a trip to Japan? I’ve written loads about the beautiful country. Check out the ‘Japan’ category of this blog for some travel inspiration.
Hi Melissa Thank you for sharing your detailed Kyushu itineraryI I will be going to Kyushu this year in early Nov .for a 9 -days trip , the places I hope to visit are Hiroshima, Nagasaki , Beppu , Kumamoto , Kagoshima . Will 9 days be too much to pack in ? I notice you landed in Osaka and head out to Hiroshima on the same day . . I am intend to skip Osaka and fly into Fukouka . Can I go to Hiroshima to Fukuoka by Shinkansen . . Do I need the JR unlimited pass or the Kyushu 7 days JR Pass is sufficient .
Hey Theresa, definitely the Kyushu pass should be sufficient for you as you’re only staying mostly in Kyushu. It is possible to go to Hiroshima from Hakata station via shinkansen, but this would not be covered by the Kyushu JR since Hiroshima is not part of Kyushu. So if you intend to visit Hiroshima, I recommend activating the JR Pass after you’ve done so.
Hi and thanks for this article, it’s very informative. Just wondering, if you follow your day 1 arrival in Osaka then back to Singapore on day 7 from Fukuoka? Then what rail pass you need to use from Osaka-Hiroshima and Hiroshima-Fukuoka? Thanks again
THANK YOU!! I am SO glad I read this, especially about the shinkansen, how to work out the unreserved cars and also where to line up. There is just so much to know, I’d be lost if I hadn’t read it. Plan to go in May with my son. I can speak Japanese but am still overwhelmed by all this. Hope I get it right!!
I’m glad it helped you, Helen! Just note that if you travel with JR Pass you can reserve seats at the train station, so you won’t need to go on the unreserved car.
Hello! This is actually quite informative. I’ve been to Fukuoka too, but I think I’ve missed out a lot of places once I’ve read your blog. Haha!
Hello Melissa, what a wonderful blog!! I really like the way you present Japan in such a natural way. If you ever come back to Kyushu, let me show you around my hometown, Kobayashi. Kobayashi is in Miyazaki, so most travellers with limited time don’t put it on their list. But it is more than worth a visit! The Kirishima mountains are great for hiking and the lack of tourists makes for a very authentic Japanese experience. I’d be happy to help you with planning your trip or take you to the mountains or the other fabulous sights in the area.
Hi Melissa, Did you buy subway pass for travel in Fukuoka? Was it useful or convenient to visit tourist sites around Fukuoka? Please advise.
Hey Soo, I didn’t buy travel pass in Fukuoka since we were mostly using it as a base for nearby attractions.
Hi, good article but I do believe if you’re from Osaka and only going up (down to) Kumamoto in 7 days, you should consider the Sanyo san’n pass instead. 7 Day JR Sanyo-San’in-Northern Kyushu Area Pass Obtain your Exchange Order in prior by delivery / pick up, activate your 7 consecutive days rail pass that covers unlimited rides from Osaka/Kyoto to Northern Kyushu at a great price https://www.klook.com/activity/5769 It is not only save you a bit of money but also allows you to take faster Sanyo shinkansen which is not allowed only using ordinary JR Pass.
Hi Melissa,
Have you been to Oita and Yufuin before? are both of these places near to beppu?
Hey Ellisha, I haven’t been to those places unfortunately, but they are very close to Beppu.
can i just buy the train tickets without having a JR pass? do they sell it over the counter?
yes they sell tickets over the counter at the station at regular price
Hi, if I am scheduling to hang around in Fukuoka area for 5 days only. Which pass are you recommending to me? JR Kyushu Pass or JR Pass? Tq
depends on your travel plan, but if you are only going to be in Kyushu then JR Kyushu will be sufficient.
Hi! How much did you spend for the entire tour?
Can i rearrange the line up? Example will start in Kagoshima on Day 1 and so on?
Hey Kaye, This was so long ago that I unfortunately don’t remember the budget. I think we spent less than $1500 per person though including flight from Singapore which was about $700. You can definitely rearrange the line up, as long as you are ok for long travel on Day 1. Kagoshima is located the furthest down from Fukuoka.
hi thanks 4 sharing. hope you’ll explain more abt fukuoka n nagasaki soon becoz i’ll be there on april. and i need extra info for my iti. tq
Thank you for the article. Very clearly written
Just wondering why you didn’t get the JR Kyushu pass instead?
i think its because i needed it to be valid for 7 days
Nice article! Wish to have JR pass experience. Thank you Melissa.
Yes! They are very exact and punctual too!
last photo its so curious and funny. Train really stop in the place??
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The above itinerary is somewhat fast-paced. Tourists preferring a slow pace of travel should consider spending more time at some of the destinations along the way.
Questions? Ask in our forum .
Essential resource for anyone travelling to Kyushu island Japan. Fully updated for 2024. Complete list of best Fukuoka and Kyushu travel spots. Ask questions or share your recommendations in the comments section below.
Fukuoka Best Places
Oita Best Places
Kumamoto Best Places
Nagasaki Best Places
Saga Best Places
Miyazaki Best Places
Kagoshima Best Places
Travelling around Kyushu
Comments and Questions
According to many surveys, Kyushu is the island most loved by Japanese travellers. Outside of Japan it is still relatively unknown. Now is the perfect time to visit before the secret gets out. With fewer tourists than Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, it’s the best place to escape the crowds. Visit Kyushu for the food, lively volcanoes, wonderful onsen (natural hot-spring bathing), traditional Japanese inns (ryokan), beautiful nature, pottery towns, local culture and many historic places. Visit Kyushu to rediscover the side of Japan long-lost in the big cities.
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Note: all photos on this page taken by us ( Kyushu Journeys )
Kyushu has 7 prefectures (local districts); Fukuoka, Ōita, Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Saga, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. Let’s look at the best places in each prefecture so you can decide where to visit and what to do in Kyushu.
Fukuoka city.
You’ll probably arrive here either at Fukuoka Airport or Hakata Station. Fukuoka is Kyushu’s biggest city yet not too big. The population of Fukuoka city is 1.5 million compared to 10 million in Tokyo. Fukuoka city is famous throughout Japan for its food. You can dine in Michelin-starred restaurants, simple street stalls and everything in between.
We recommend eating in the ‘ yatai ‘ food stalls in the evening. It’s a great chance to try local dishes and take a stroll along the lively riverside.
Fukuoka city has two main areas; Hakata and Tenjin. You can walk from one to the other or take a 5-minute cab/bus/subway ride. Hakata has more eateries and hotels whereas Tenjin is a place to shop. In Hakata you can take a self-guided walking tour of some very historic Buddhist temples. In Tenjin head to Oyafuko Dori for casual dining and trendy nightlife scene.
Yanagawa is an hour by train from Fukuoka city. It’s a bit too touristy for our liking but taking a gondola ride along the canals is fun. Don’t miss Yanagawa’s signature eel dish after your gondola ride.
Dazaifu is also an hour by train from Fukuoka city. There is an impressive and historic shrine there ( Dazaifu Tenmangū ) but it is always incredibly crowded. It’s dedicated to the Shinto deity of education and so is popular with students. Don’t miss Dazaifu’s famous Umegae Mochi rice cakes. Kyushu National Museum is also located in Dazaifu.
Itoshima is a summer destination with a nice beach, good surf and feels a bit like Bali or Thailand. There are a couple of well-known sunset viewpoints. Lovers like to take selfies at Couples Rock .
It takes less than 30 minutes to reach Kurume by shinkansen from Fukuoka city. Kurume is known as the “common man’s food city”. There are over 100 ramen noodle shops, more yakitori shops per person than anywhere in Japan, and 18 saké breweries along the river. It’s one of the best places to see camellia in the whole of Japan. The annual fire festival is wow!
Yame is off the rail network but only an hour’s drive from Fukuoka city. We love Yame because we love green tea and Japanese tradition. The green tea plantation views are wonderful. Visit one of the local tea shops for drinking and buying best quality green tea.
If you visit in May you get the best quality green tea (freshly harvested) and can get hands-on picking tea yourself.
There is a traditional craft museum where you can see local craftspeople at work. Ask to see their wonderful puppet theatre too. There is a shop for viewing or purchase of exquisite traditional handmade dolls . We’ll meet a green tea Master in Yame on our Kyushu Food Tour in February 2024.
Ukiha is an hour by train from Kurume. It’s a wonderful place to see Japan as it once was. Wander the old streets and visit traditional shops. There is a famous rice terrace viewpoint and orchards where you can pick your own fruit. The natural hot-spring onsen water is excellent quality. We’re big fans of Ukiha (it’s best to visit by car).
Asakura is 30 minutes drive from Ukiha. Asakura and Ukiha offer similar things to see and do and we enjoy visiting them both. The ruins of Akizuki castle are one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Fukuoka Prefecture.
Sasaguri is just 20 minutes by train from Fukuoka city but a world away. There are thick cedar forests and a pilgrimage circuit of 88 Buddhist temples. This is a miniature version (50KM) of the more strenuous 88 temple Shikoku Pilgrimage. You can follow our route description and photos if you want to enjoy a half-day walk through the forests of Sasaguri. We also run a yoga retreat in the peaceful surroundings of Sasaguri. The most famous and photogenic inhabitant of Sasaguri is the reclining Buddha of Nanzoin Temple. He’s utterly serene and the largest bronze Buddha in the world.
Not much happening here but we live here and we love it! The only thing of note is the Kaho Theater. It’s a fine example of a traditional kabuki theater of which very few remain in Japan. We were lucky enough to see a Kabuki performance here and it was utterly enchanting. Performances are held just once a year (or even less often!) so we felt privileged to get the opportunity. I also feel privileged taking my morning walk around rice fields instead of traffic-filled streets.
The best onsen in Fukuoka are away from Fukuoka city. There are very few onsen within Fukuoka city and those are very busy city-style ones. Our favourite onsen village in Fukuoka Prefecture is Harazuru Onsen. There are several onsen resorts along the riverbank. As a wonderful bonus, in season you can see the unique spectacle of cormorant fishing.
Not familiar with onsen bathing? Our Introduction to Onsen page is a great place to start.
Be part of the Kyushu travel community. Ask questions if you’re planning a trip. If you’ve been to Kyushu before (or live here now) share your knowledge, experience and photos so others can benefit. If you love Japan travel, this is the group for you. It's completely free of charge so join now and start planning your next Kyushu holiday.
If you want to skip Fukuoka, you can fly into Oita Airport from other parts of Japan. If you arrive by train from Fukuoka (2 hours) there is a wonderful Showa-era onsen just 2-minutes walk from Oita Station. Also within walking distance of Oita Station is Ōita Prefectural Art Museum (OPAM). OPAM is most well-known for its wonderful building design. Other than this, you may prefer to skip Oita city and head to the countryside.
We love Beppu. It’s just 90 minutes drive from our house so we visit often. We visit for the onsen (natural hot-spring baths) and the seafood. There are almost 3,000 hot springs gushing water around town so you’ll surely find one you like. We have bathed in simple hot spring baths that cost just ¥100 (less than a dollar) but you can find luxurious ones too. Beppu is also a good choice to find clean but relatively inexpensive accommodation. The Hells of Beppu are its most famous tourist attraction. The Hells (jigoku) are eight different bubbling, boiling pools of various colours. They are too hot to bathe but fun, unique and photogenic.
Beppu Hells Pro Tips: Kamado Jigoku is the most fun; Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) is the most colourful; animal lovers may want to avoid Oniyama Jigoku (Crocodile Hell)
You can also take a boat from Beppu to visit an early morning fisherman’s market . In addition to stuffing yourself with fresh, tasty and inexpensive seafood in Beppu, don’t forget to have your ‘onsen egg’ and (our favourite) onsen steamed pudding.
Yufuin is another very famous onsen resort in Oita. It’s in a prettier rural setting than Beppu and is more famous for beef than seafood. Accommodation in Yufuin is mostly ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and so more expensive than Beppu. From Hakata Station in Fukuoka you can reach Yufuin in 2 hours on the stylish Yufuin no Mori train.
Yufuin Pro Tip: Yufuin no Mori is one of Kyushu’s most popular trains so we strongly recommend you book in advance. For Kyushu Journeys clients we’ll make all required train and bus bookings. Check out our family trip planning service .
Yufuin is much-loved by the Japanese so gets very busy at weekends and on public holidays. The main activity in Yufuin is strolling along the high street to pretty Lake Kinrin. The route is lined with boutiques, cafés, restaurants and galleries. If you have a sweet tooth (like we do) you’ll be in heaven. You can take the quieter route back along the riverbank to burn off some calories. Even if you don’t stay in Yufuin you can take an outdoor onsen bath there enjoying the classic view of Mount Yufu.
Kunisaki Peninsula is one the least visited areas of Oita Prefecture but one of our favourites. It has everything we love; nature, history and culture. The main shrine in the area (Usa Jingu) was built in the 8th century and is set in sprawling forested grounds. There are many other temples and temple ruins dating back 1,300 years. The ancient Buddhists longed for serenity so many of these temples are found in mountainous areas and thick forests. Even today they are far from the crowds.
It’s very difficult to explore the best parts of Kunisaki Peninsula by public transport. Our Kyushu Foodie Tour includes Kunisaki or you can visit by self-drive rental car.
You can find Buddhist images carved into rock faces by patient hands a millenia or more ago. The Kunisaki Long Trail is a meandering 134 KM hiking route that follows in the footsteps of ancient monks. If you want to escape the 21st century there is no better place than Kunisaki Peninsula.
You will probably visit Usuki to see the wonderful Usuki Stone Buddhas . They are believed to have been carved in the 12th century. Who carved them and why is lost in time. There are 59 statues set in a peaceful park. The Usuki Stone Buddhas are officially designated as a ‘National Treasure of Japan’.
For lovers of fresh seafood there is no better place than Saiki. Saiki fishing port lands a wider variety of fish (350+ kinds) than anywhere else in Japan. The morning fish auction at Saiki harbour offers a fascinating glimpse into the fishermans’ world (although it isn’t officially open to the public). Whenever we visit Saiki we eat an enormous amount of fish and other seafood (and take lots home fresh, frozen and dried). The sushi is exceptional. Between meals you can visit the easternmost point in Kyushu (Tsurumisaki lighthouse) and gaze across to Shikoku island.
Aso-Kuju National Park is the scenic heartland of Kyushu. The east part of Aso-Kuju National Park is in Oita Prefecture and the west part is in Kumamoto Prefecture. As you drive around you’ll almost certainly see a plume of smoke drifting up from Aso volcano (see Kumamoto section below). Enjoy driving through picturesque rolling hills and vast grasslands. The cows here roam free and the area is famous for its beef and ice cream. There are some wonderful rural onsen in this area and we seldom visit without taking a bath. I think it’s our favourite part of Kyushu.
Kitsuki is a small town with a historic feel and a tiny little castle. It has some very well-preserved streets so you can tread where fearsome samurai feet once trod. The most popular activity in Kitsuki is renting a kimono and strolling around Instagraming. If you have kids you can keep them quiet for an afternoon with a visit to Harmony Land Theme Park. I’ve never been and definitely will never go but apparently it’s home to Hello Kitty, Cinnamon and My Melody.
Hita is our kind of town. You can drift back in time as you wander the streets and visit the traditional shops. Do a tour and tasting in one of the soy sauce or miso shops still using age-old techniques. Don’t miss the display of wonderful handmade dolls. The hot spring waters are good quality and many of the onsen are in picturesque locations. Eel is the local specialty dish. We’ve been to several eel restaurants in Hita and they were all excellent. We even found a man grilling eel at the roadside and took one home for mum. Takatsuka Atago Jizosan is an unusual temple and very photogenic . It features 2,000 Jizo statues (the Guardian Deity of children). You can enjoy Hita without a car because it’s just 90 minutes by train from Hakata Station in Fukuoka city.
It’s worth stopping at Kokonoe just to walk across the bridge ( Kokonoe Yume Otsurihasi ). It’s Japan’s highest footbridge above a valley and the views are incredible. It’s the prefect place for viewing autumn leaves. Don’t go if you’re scared of heights. Kokonoe is in the mountains and there is a ski resort nearby. However honestly speaking, if you want to go skiing we suggest you visit Hokkaido instead of Kyushu.
Bungoono is home to Kyushu’s own version of the Niagara Falls (Harajiri Falls). Unlike the real Niagara Falls you can wander around freely and get right to the edge. When we visited we saw some people taking crazy selfies. Oka castle ruins are also worth a visit. The views are wonderful. This whole area is famed for its autumn colours.
Nakatsu is another of our favourite areas. It’s very picturesque and we always visit on our Autumn Colours Tour . Yabakei is especially nice. It’s another mountainous region so a good place to have a bowl of soba noodles (you probably know already that soba noodles is a traditional mountain food). If you are feeling energetic you can rent a bicycle and pedal around. One of our favourite temples is in Nakatsu. Rakanji Temple is over 700 years old and there are Buddha statues everywhere (3,700 if you count them carefully). It’s perched on a cliff top overlooking thick forest. Rakanji Temple is a beautifully peaceful place and (shock, horror!) photography isn’t allowed.
The best onsen in Oita Prefecture are …. everywhere! It’s one of Japan’s top places for onsen and Japanese flock here to bathe. Beppu and Yufuin are the most popular onsen resorts in Oita. Beppu is a cheap and cheerful onsen city. Yufuin is a more high-end rural onsen town. Personally we prefer the quality of water in Beppu. Hita has some wonderful onsen where you can bathe outdoors with scenic views. There are also many small onsen resorts in the Oita countryside. We love some of the onsen resorts around Kokonoe for the spectacular views. There are many, many others. Leave a comment below to share your favourite scenic onsen. The only parts of Oita Prefecture not well supplied with onsen are east in Kunisaki Peninsula and south around Saiki city.
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Kumamoto city.
You can whizz down to Kumamoto city from Fukuoka in 45 minutes by Shinkansen. If you’re in a car it’s fun to take the ferry from Nagasaki Prefecture. The pride of Kumamoto city is the castle. It is is considered one of the three premier castles in Japan but was badly damaged in the 2016 earthquake. We were lucky enough to visit the castle just before the earthquake and it was grand. The other main attraction in Kumamoto city is the Japanese Garden ( Suizenji Jojuen ). It doesn’t rival the great gardens of Kyoto but it’s a pleasant place. You can sip green tea and gaze out over the lake as the feudal lords once did. If you like eating weird things when you travel, try basashi (raw horse-meat sashimi). It’s a Kumamoto specialty.
Aso volcano is the largest active volcano in Japan and one of the largest in the world. Amazingly you can stand on the crater rim and peer down into the bubbling lava below.
Check before you travel to see the current status of Aso volcanic eruption . At the time of writing (Nov 2021) there is a level 2 eruption warning so the area within 1km from the crater is closed. When we last visited a few months ago there were no restrictions at all.
Even when the crater is closed you can usually still get close enough to smell the devilish pong of sulphur and feel the volcanic vibes. Taking a walk around is the nearest you’ll get to strolling on the moon.
Aso city can be reached by train and the Beppu to Kumamoto railway line is one of the most scenic in Japan. It recently reopened after being closed for years due to earthquake and landslide damage. You can hop off en-route and rent an electric bike to explore Aso area. We were foolish enough to do this in July; it was boiling hot (37ºC) and we got completely drenched in a summer rainstorm. Aso shrine is said to be 2,000 years old (not sure if I really believe that) but was badly damaged in the 2016 earthquake.
Hitoyoshi is a beautiful area but was absolutely devastated by floods in 2020. We were shocked to see photos of places we had stood the year before flooded to higher than head height! Despite this, it’s still a wonderful place to enjoy nature, hot-spring onsen, and drink shochu (Japanese vodka). The locals are proud that their shochu is made from rice. In other parts of Kyushu it’s usually made from sweet potato or barley. We visited Hitoyoshi again after the floods. We had fun gathering mushrooms and bamboo shoots from the forest ( video here ). We were happy to see Hitoyoshi is recovering and we wish them well ♥
Kikuchi Gorge is a very pretty area. You can take gentle walks here passing by streams and waterfalls. It’s a favourite spot for viewing autumn leaves. There are many pleasant onsen ryokan (Japanese inns with natural hot-spring baths) in the Kikuchi Valley. It’s somewhere to revive your spirits and take a break from the modern world.
Oguni is another nice area to stay in ryokan. Who doesn’t love relaxing, eating good food and onsen bathing? Head to Nabegataki Falls to stretch your legs. You can walk behind the wall of water to snap a cool photo.
Yamaga Onsen is one of our favourite natural hot-spring baths (though we’ve got lots of favourites). The water quality is good and the locals have been bathing here for more than 1,000 years. It was tastefully renovated recently keeping the old Edo-period architectural style . Feel the history as you gaze up at the 1950’s retro advertisements from your bath.
Find wild and remote countryside in Takamori. Some of the roads becomes lanes as they get narrower and narrower. You can really feel as if you are driving in wilderness. The cows graze freely not fenced in fields. There is a great dengaku restaurant in Takamori that we love to visit. It’s such fun to barbecue your own meat, veggies and river fish at your table (just as the samurai once did).
Minamiaso is another wonderfully scenic area. It’s home to Aso Volcano, huge sweeping grasslands and the purest mountain springs. In spring visit our favourite cherry blossom tree ( video here ).
Kurokawa Onsen is a delightful onsen (hot-spring) village. It has around 30 upscale traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) all with onsen baths. Kurokawa Onsen is especially famous for outdoor onsen bathing. Relax up to your neck in toasty and healing onsen waters with trees overhanging and birds tweeting all around. Of course all the ryokan have indoor baths too. Many also have ‘family baths’ so you can bathe in private with your loved ones. You will be served wonderful kaiseki dinners and lavish breakfasts. Take time to stroll around the pretty village too. You can read about our stay at Kurokawa Onsen (and some photos) in the write up our Oita and Kumamoto road trip .
It’s quite difficult to differentiate many of the areas around central Kyushu in Oita and Kumamoto prefectures. As you pass from one to the other you wouldn’t notice (except for the road signs). It’s the heartland of Kyushu’s most amazing countryside. The scenery is wonderful and there are too many hot-spring resorts to mention. Make sure to try the yummy soft cream and meat-lovers rave about the grass-reared beef.
The best onsen in Kumamoto are in the Aso countryside and south around Hitoyoshi. Both areas have onsen with quality water in beautifully scenic locations. Our favourite ‘ muddy hot spring ‘ is in Kumamoto Prefecture although not everybody enjoys this kind of bathing. We are also big fans of Yamaga Onsen for the quality of water and retro style. Another great area in Kumamoto Prefecture for hot-spring bathing is around the towns of Oguni and Minamioguni. These towns are north of Aso-Kuju National Park but share the same beautiful scenery. You have probably guessed by now that we are fans of rural onsen. However if you find yourself in Kumamoto city there are many nice onsen there too.
Nagasaki city.
It takes two hours from Fukuoka to Nagasaki by car or train. There is no Shinkansen line yet but one will open soon. Nagasaki city is definitely most famous for the Atomic Bomb Museum. Visiting the Atomic Bomb Museum and the nearby Peace Park is a poignant experience. You may also want to visit Urakami Cathedral. It stood only 500 meters from where the bomb was dropped and was almost completely destroyed. For a more cheery experience head to Huis Ten Bosch . It’s interesting to see a fake Amsterdam in the heart of Kyushu and the gardens are beautiful. When you get hungry in Nagasaki take a stroll around bustling Chinatown. To explore Nagasaki’s colonial history visit Dejima and the Dutch Slope. In the evening take the Nagasaki Ropeway to see one of Japan’s very best night views. Nagasaki is a fun and lively city and it’s worth spending a day or two exploring by tram.
For a unique experience take a boat ride to Battleship Island (Gunkanjima or Hashima Island). As the name suggests it looks like a battleship and was featured in a James Bond movie (Skyfall). You can’t always land on the island itself but you can get some great photos.
Omura Park covers the remains of a ruined castle. Approximately 2,000 cherry trees burst into bloom in Omura Park , officially one of Japan’s 100 ‘Famous Cherry Blossom-viewing Sites’. In the right season you can find an amazing 300,000 iris flowers.
Shimabara is far down south of Nagasaki Prefecture. If you take the ferry from Kumamoto you’ll arrive in Shimabara. The castle is very photogenic with good ocean views but the interior is mostly modern concrete. There are some old samurai houses you can visit. Although there isn’t much to see inside the houses you get a feel for history with the old houses and old streets around them. Shimabara is known as the ‘city of the swimming carps’ and you can easily spot the big colourful fish swimming in the small crystal-clear roadside canals. Our favourite place in Shimabara is Shimabara Hibari Sanka Park (although there isn’t much information in English on the web about it). Depending on when you visit you can see cherry blossom blooming amongst rape blossoms, poppies, cosmos and sunflower. It’s wonderful both in spring and autumn.
The Unzen Hells is a unique and very photogenic landscape of boiling, bubbling volcanic pools with plumes of steam rising all around. You may want to pay your respects at the small cross erected in memory of the Christians martyred there in the 1600’s. You can read about this in Shusaku Endo’s novel ‘Silence’ or watch Martin Scorsese’s film. For a bird’s eye view of the area head up Unzen Ropeway. The views are especially pretty in spring and autumn. The Unzen area was buried in a dramatic mudslide (after a volcanic eruption) 30 years ago. Visit the Unzen Disaster Memorial Hall to see the remains of houses buried up to their roofs. You can also visit the nearby elementary school abandoned after the eruption. Look out for the signboard there with a dramatic photo of the last kid to escape. You can see him sprinting out of the school as a huge cloud 100’s of meters high looms behind him. We like Unzen and always have an onsen egg while we are there.
The Goto Islands are reached by flight or ferry from Nagasaki or Fukuoka. Once there, you’ll need to take ferries to travel around the different islands. The Goto Islands are most famous as the home of the ‘hidden Christian’ churches (see below). Goto is also a nice place to visit in summer for the good beaches and unspoilt nature. At any time of the year the seafood is exceptional.
Tsushima island lies halfway between Japan and Korea. I’ve never been to Tsushima but I mention it because my Japanese teacher is from there and she says it’s very nice. Youngsters may recognise it from the video game Ghost of Tsushima.
Iki Island is a popular summer retreat for residents of Fukuoka and Nagasaki. Enjoy rugged nature, gorgeous beaches and the best sea urchin in Japan. Iki island is can be visited any time of year but is only popular in summer.
You can find the ‘ hidden Christian’ sites of Nagasaki on the mainland and also the outer islands. These sites bear unique testimony to the hidden Christians of Nagasaki. They secretly worshipped throughout terrible persecution in the 1600s. Read the book or watch the movie ‘Silence’ to learn more about Nagasaki’s hidden christian history. Many of the churches still remain and some of them are very small, pretty and unique.
The best onsen in Nagasaki are in the south around Unzen and Obama. This is an active volcanic area and where we find volcanoes we usually find natural hot-springs too. Although the onsen in Nagasaki Prefecture aren’t as scenic as Oita or Kumamoto, the water quality is excellent. We stayed in an onsen hotel in Unzen and were lucky enough to have a private hot-spring bath in our room . The water was silky white, which is always a sign of powerful water. Obama not only has a cool name, it also has the longest footbath in Japan in addition to regular onsen baths. For lovers of nature, head north to Iki Island to enjoy great onsen on this wonderfully peaceful island. Unfortunately, Nagasaki city itself isn’t an onsen area. This doesn’t matter really because there are so many other activities in Nagasaki.
Saga prefecture.
Honestly speaking, there isn’t much to see in Saga City. Saga Shrine is large and photogenic and is very conveniently located in the heart of the city. You can also visit Saga Castle and the castle museum. Cultured travellers will enjoy Saga Prefectural Art Museum.
The Saga International Balloon Festival is an internationally famous hot-air balloon festival. We enjoyed our visit a lot even though we aren’t balloon enthusiasts. It’s wonderful to witness 100’s of huge balloons soaring across the planes at dawn. It’s also fun to see the themed balloons (Star Wars for example) and night-time finale of ‘dancing balloons’.
Karatsu is one of our favourite cities in north Kyushu. Its most striking feature is the castle. Karatsu Castle looks wonderful from the outside and has displays of samurai armour and local pottery inside. Karatsu pottery is a much rougher style than in the nearby town of Arita but very highly regarded. As with all seaside towns in Japan, you can enjoy some great sushi in Karatsu. For best viewpoint head to Karatsu Observatory as the sun goes down. Experience spectacular views of the ocean and the ‘one-million-tree’ pine forest below.
Yobuko is a quiet fishing village on the coast north of Karatsu. Its most famous dish is Yobuko Squid (squid sashimi). Some visitors are uncomfortable seeing the squid wriggling around on the dish as it is served. Other visitors see this as a sign of freshness and quality. Yobuko Morning Market is very well-known although you may be disappointed. Although the fishing harbour is very pretty the market itself is probably smaller and less lively than you expect.
Kashima City is home to the very famous and photogenic Yūtoku Inari Shrine. In recent years it has become very popular with Thai visitors as a Thai movie and TV drama were both filmed here. Kashima is also famous as the town with the largest tidal difference in Japan. When the tide is out the ocean can barely be seen in the distance. Visitors love to photograph the red torii gates stretching from the shore to the sea. For a taste of times gone by stroll along the well-preserved Sake Breweries Street. If you love seafood, don’t leave Kashima without trying the local specialty of Takezaki crab.
Arita and Imari are the two towns most strongly-associated with pottery and porcelain production in Kyushu. You can visit kilns, workshops and a clay mine, and browse the many different pottery shops. At a very reasonable price you can buy a genuine and quality hand-made souvenir. The bright and modern Kyushu Ceramic Museum shows the rich history of local production. Visit the back lanes of Arita (near the old cemetery) to see where pottery production first began 400 years ago. Arita Porcelain Park is a pottery-themed recreation of a traditional German village. The Arita spring fair is Japan’s biggest pottery fair. If you like mingling with one million other visitors, this is the pottery fair for you.
Arita & Karatsu Roadtrip: Meeting the incredible craftsmen of two of the most popular Kyushu pottery villages
Mifuneyama Rakuen is a vast and semi-wild Japanese Garden. Huge numbers of visitors flock here from all around Japan for the garden’s seasonal delights. With more than 2,000 cherry trees the garden is a blaze of colour in spring. The autumn foliage colours are also wonderful with a very popular evening light-up spectacle. The psychedelic electric light displays of Teamlab are popular (although we were underwhelmed).
Daikozenji Temple is probably the best autumn leaves spot in Saga Prefecture. It’s included on our Autumn Colours (Fall Foliage) Tour . It is also unmissable in spring as 50,000 azaleas gayly bloom. Take the chance to spend an hour or two strolling the thickly forested grounds of this 1,300 year-old temple.
Takeo City has been a natural hot-spring bathing resort for 1,300 years. The quality of the water is consistently excellent and also very hot. I bathed in one bath here that was 46°C (115°F)! Don’t worry, you can choose a cooler bath if you prefer. The old courtyard, historic buildings and traditional bathhouses are all still in good condition. Takeo is an excellent destination for people (like us) who hunt the best quality onsen water and love to explore the old-style streets. To get further back in history visit the giant camphor tree in Takeo Shrine, estimated to be 3,000 years old. Return to the 21st century with a visit to Takeo’s spectacular and very modern-looking library.
Ureshino is famous for green tea and onsen hot-spring bathing. As with Takeo (see above) Ureshino has a long history as a hot-spring bathing resort. You can also taste and buy some of the best quality Japanese tea and visit a tea production factory. We joined a green tea making class in Ureshino and picked up some very helpful tips. In Ureshino we enjoy buying our tea directly from the producer (farm to pot).
Takeo Onsen & Ureshino Roadtrip Report: Green tea and natural hot-spring onsen off the beaten path
Yoshinogari Historical Park recreates an ancient settlement amongst a 2,000 year-old archaeological site. It’s a vast area to explore and has some interesting exhibits in the field. It’s depressing to see that even 2,000 years ago humans were killing each other for wealth and power.
The terraced rice fields of Hamanoura offer an iconic Asian photo . Just make sure to be there at the right time of year (April) and at the right time of day (sundown).
The Village of the Secret Kilns ( Okawachiyama ) lay hidden away in the mountains for centuries. The feudal lords wanted to protect the valuable secret of porcelain production. Now you can wander around freely and rummage through Aladdin’s Caves of hand-painted treasures.
The best onsen in Saga are in Ureshino and Takeo. Samurai soldiers soothed their weary bones in this area over 1,000 years ago. You are unlikely to meet samurai there these days, though their modern equivalent (weary salarymen) still follow this tradition. My hottest ever onsen (46°C / 115°F) was in Takeo. If you don’t enjoy being boiled like a lobster there are more moderate temperature baths too. Find more details and photos in our Takeo Onsen & Ureshino road trip report. You can also find onsen in Karatsu however we certainly recommend Ureshino and Takeo due to the excellent quality of water and wide choice of baths. After bathing here you’ll notice your skin become silky smooth.
Miyazaki city.
Miyazaki city isn’t a top tourist spot and most visitors will just be passing through. Surfers visit in summer. You can take a stroll to enjoy the natural scenery of Heiwadai Park with its iconic Peace Tower and weird clay statues. Miyazaki Shrine is claimed to be 2,600 years old (but I guess it isn’t really so old). It’s a serene Shinto shrine in lush tropical grounds with rows of red torii gates and a majestic grand avenue. After visiting the shrine you can pop into the next door Miyazaki Prefectural Museum of Nature and History. Youngsters may prefer to visit the Miyazaki Science Center. It houses one of the world’s largest planetariums and a lifesize model of the Apollo 11 Moon Lander.
Aoshima Island is a picturesque little island just offshore from Miyazaki City. If you google ‘Aoshima Island’ you will probably read about all the cats running wild. Unfortunately for cat-lovers, that is a different Aoshima Island far from Kyushu. You’ll visit Aoshima Island in Kyushu for its beautiful beach, curious rock formation and wildly fresh seafood. Don’t forget to explore inland too. Head through the jungle and find the quaint Aoshima Shrine in the centre of the island. Although the waters around Aoshima are gentle, you can find some surfing breaks on the mainland nearby. There are some glitzy resort hotels catering to the sun-loving tourists.
Udo Shrine is further south from Miyazaki city past Aoshima. The coastal views are excellent and its very hot. The shrine is in a dramatic coastal location, very picturesque and is fun to visit. Try your hand throwing small balls from the cave into a marked target on the rock below. Women throw with the right hand, men with their left, and winners earn themselves good fortune. Udo Shrine (so they say) helps with fertility, childbirth and a happy marriage so is popular with young couples.
Takachiho is Miyazaki Prefecture’s most popular destination (our clients love it). For this reason, Takachiho gets incredibly busy at certain times. It’s off the rail network so you’ll need to drive or go by bus. The whole area is wonderfully picturesque with thick forest, rivers and farming land all around. Takachiho Gorge is the highlight attraction. It’s a steep dramatic river gorge with a waterfall crashing over. Walk along the side of the gorge or hire a rowing boat for a memorable adventure. Amano Iwato Shrine is an important shrine for the Japanese with its origin steeped in myth. Head down from there for a pretty walk to the holy riverside cave. The most spectacular view in Takachiho is of the ‘Sea of Clouds’. It isn’t guaranteed however, you have to get up horribly early and it’s usually only seen in autumn. Takachiho Shrine is an incredible 1,900 years old. Visit in the evening to experience the tragic comic masked Kagura dance . For a fun lunch in Takachiho try the local specialty of somen noodles served whizzing down a long bamboo shoot.
Gokase Highland Ski Resort is open from December to March for skiing and snowboarding. We hope global warming doesn’t mess up their business plans.
Kojima Island lies in the far south of Miyazaki Prefecture. Curiously, the resident monkeys wash their potatoes before eating and stand on two legs like humans. Very civilized and definitely worth an Insta moment.
The best onsen in Miyazaki are scattered around the prefecture. Although Miyazaki isn’t famous for hot spring bathing, there are many good quality onsen here. Shima Onsen is popular and has the oldest wooden bathhouse in Japan (built 1691). It is also believed to be an inspiration for some scenes from the massive worldwide movie hit Spirited Away. Other onsen to visit in Miyazaki include Yunomoto Onsen. It claims to be one of the most carbonated (fizzy) springs in Japan. I must note however that when I bathed in Nagayu Onsen in Oita Prefecture I noticed they make the same claim! For a silky bath you can visit Yamagiri. To enjoy the health-giving properties of a heavily mineralised onsen head to Kannogo Onsen. The great thing about onsen in Miyazaki is that they are likely to be less crowded than other more famous hot spring resorts in Kyushu.
Kagoshima city.
Kagoshima city has some interesting visitor attractions and is worth a visit. It takes only 1.5 hours by bullet train to reach Kagoshima (in the far south of Kyushu) from Fukuoka (in the far north). Once you arrive in Kagoshima it’s fun and convenient to use the local tram system. The first place you will probably visit will be Sengan-en . It’s the best Japanese Garden in Kyushu and offers great views across to Sakurajima volcano. Another impressive viewpoint is the observatory in Shiroyama Park. Enjoy it in the late afternoon sun or stay for the night view. For shopping and evening dining head to the Tenmonkan area of Kagoshima City.
Sakurajima is Japan’s most active volcano. It regularly sprinkles ash over the inhabitants of Kagoshima city and occasionally produces spectacular fire shows. Although accessible by road, you will probably find it most convenient to visit Sakurajima by ferry. Once there, take a sightseeing bus around the eerie landscape and get some up-close shots of the volcano. Sakurajima is only a few kilometers from Kagoshima city so it’s easy to visit while sightseeing that area.
Chiran was a major kamikaze base in WW2. Of the 1,000+ kamikaze pilots killed during the war, almost half were from Chiran. The Chiran Peace Museum explores the short lives and sadly futile deaths of these kamikaze pilots. I’ve never been and don’t plan to visit. I’m sure it will be a miserable experience. For a more traditional Japanese experience explore the well-preserved samurai district of Chiran.
Ibusuki is the spiritual home of hot-sand bathing in Japan. Apparently it’s both healthy and relaxing getting buried up to your neck in damp, black steaming sand (I enjoyed it). A quirky place to visit around Ibusuki is Nishi-Oyama Station. It’s Japan’s most southerly train station, enchantingly cute and with a stunning view of Sakurajima volcano. With more than half a million flowers and lovely coastal views, Kagoshima Flower Park is also worth a visit. You can travel from Kagoshima to Ibusuki on the handsome sightseeing train JR Kyushu Ibusuki no Tamatebako .
Kirishima is a glorious area of natural beauty north of Kagoshima. You can travel there in style on the JR Kyushu Hayato no Kaze sightseeing train (Update April 2022: Hayato no Kaze train discontinued). Discover mist-covered forests and invigorating trails. Treat yourself to the finest views and fresh mountain air. Indulge in the Japanese pastime of forest bathing. Don’t go to Kirishima for sightseeing; just go to relax and renew.
The Izumi Observation Center is Japan’s top crane wintering grounds. Over 10,000 cranes winter here as they migrate from Siberia. We sometimes get contacted by bird-watchers wanting us to arrange their visit. You need to be tough because the best time to see the cranes is at dawn, in winter, when it’s freezing cold.
Tanegashima Space Center is said to be the most beautiful rocket-launch site in the world. It’s at the very southern tip of Kyushu, surrounded by blue waters and white sand beaches. Enjoy a guided tour of the largest rocket-launch complex in Japan and learn all about space travel.
Amami Oshima Island is a sub-tropical island 380 km from Kagoshima. Visit Amami Oshima island for pristine beaches, thick mangrove forests and clear blue ocean. Compare the culture and cuisine of Amami Oshima to that of the Kyushu mainland. In our modern age of jet travel, Amami Oshima is just 2.5 hours from Tokyo or 1 hour from Kagoshima. If you have time to kill you can take the 12-hour ferry! I’m curious to visit because the scuba diving is highly rated (my previous business was a scuba diving centre in Indonesia).
Yakushima Island is home to some of Japan’s most ancient forests. The ancient Jōmon Sugi is believed to be one of the oldest trees in the world. Visitors are attracted to Yakushima island by the thick cedar forests and abundant wildlife. There are numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels. Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is the most popular hike on the island. It’s enchantingly beautiful and was inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animation Princess Mononoke. It’s also possible to go scuba diving around Yakushima. Yakushima is wild and beautiful and has become increasingly popular in recent years. Be warned though, it rains like hell. You can fly to Yakushima from Kagoshima in less than an hour.
The best onsen in Kagoshima are found in Kagoshima city, Kirishima and Ibusuki. If you head south to Yakushima Island you can find some wonderful onsen there too. With more than 2,700 hot springs in Kagoshima Prefecture you are definitely spoilt for choice. It’s fun to take an outdoor bath (rotenburo) in Kagoshima with a view of Sakurajima volcano smoking in the distance. Kirishima offers a much greener bathing experience with an abundance of thick natural forest. After enjoying the local pastime of ‘forest bathing’ you can jump into a toasty bath for hot spring bathing. Personally, I can hardly think of a better way to spend a day. Ibusuki city is most well-known for hot sand bathing. It’s not as weird as it sounds; I’ve tried it and loved it! Of course, in addition to hot sand bathing, there are many excellent regular hot spring onsen baths. Along with Oita Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture, Kagoshima is one of Kyushu’s most popular onsen destinations. Enjoy!
Do you have any questions? Been to Kyushu before and want to share your recommendation, tips or advice? Leave your comment or question in the comments section below.
Fukuoka city (the main city on Kyushu) is a major transport hub.
Many airlines fly into Fukuoka International Airport (airport code: FUK) including Singapore Airlines, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific and Thai Airways.
Discover which flights are flying into Fukuoka on this page on Fukuoka Airport website .
You will need to write the name and address of your first hotel on the arrival card. Remember to carry that information with you on the plane (not packed in your check-in luggage).
Customs Inspection
It is not unusual to have your bags checked on arrival at Fukuoka airport by humans or sniffer dogs. Meat, plants and vegetables are not allowed. Japan is also more strict than many countries about medicines. Even Vicks inhalers are banned! Check our Japan Travel Tips page for more detailed information.
Many airlines fly into Fukuoka Airport from other parts of Japan including several budget options. From Tokyo to Fukuoka takes around 1.5 hours by plane. From Osaka to Fukuoka takes 1 hour by plane. You can fly from from Kyoto to Fukuoka via Osaka Airport.
You may prefer to fly to a different Kyushu airport (instead of Fukuoka) to start your travel adventure. Many of our clients fly directly from Tokyo or Osaka to Oita, Kumamoto or Kagoshima airports.
Fukuoka airport is in a super-convenient location. It takes just 5 minutes by subway to reach Hakata Station (in the center of Fukuoka) from Fukuoka Airport. Taxis take 15 minutes and cost around ¥2,000.
Fukuoka airport subway station is at the domestic terminal. If you fly into the international terminal (overseas flight) you will first need to take the free shuttle bus from the international terminal to the domestic terminal (15 minutes). You can then take the subway (5 minutes) from the domestic terminal to Hakata Station. If it’s too much hassle to take the shuttle bus with all your luggage, just take a taxi directly from the international terminal into Fukuoka city.
You can also take the airport bus from the international terminal into Fukuoka if you prefer. The international terminal at Fukuoka Airport is very small so it’s easy to find the airport bus stop. Details of Fukuoka Airport buses can be found on this page of the Fukuoka Airport website .
You can take the bullet train (shinkansen) to Fukuoka from all parts of Japan. From Tokyo to Fukuoka takes around 5 hours by train. From Osaka to Fukuoka takes 2.5 hours by train. From Kyoto to Fukuoka takes 3 hours by train. All shinkansen arrive at Hakata Station, which is the main railway station in Fukuoka. From Hakata Station you can continue by shinkansen onto Kumamoto (45 minutes) or Kagoshima in the south of Kyushu (1.5 hours).
Travelling around Kyushu by rental car is the most popular option for our clients. However driving into Kyushu from other parts of Japan is tiresome. It takes around 8 hours to drive from Osaka to Tokyo. From Tokyo to Fukuoka takes two days drive! We suggest you fly or take the train to Kyushu from other parts of Japan and then rent a car when you arrive in Kyushu.
There are four options for travelling around Kyushu;
Let’s look at each option in more detail.
Travelling independently (without a guide) in a self-drive rental car is a very popular way to travel around Kyushu. Here in Kyushu the roads are good, we drive on the left (apologies to our American and European friends) and I seldom see a traffic jam. For Kyushu Journeys clients we will arrange a car with English GPS (SatNav) and include easy to input numerical mapcodes for all sightseeing spots, restaurants and hotels along the route. We include Google map links as a backup too! This is how we love to travel ourselves. You can take a look at some of the many road trips we have taken ourselves;
Takeo Onsen & Ureshino: Green tea and natural hot-spring onsen off the beaten path
Arita & Karatsu: Meeting the incredible craftsmen of two of the most popular Kyushu pottery villages
Oita & Kumamoto: Bubbling Hells, a quaint fishing port, and one of Kyushu’s most colourful shrines.
Take a look at our private family trip planning service if you want us to plan your Kyushu road trip. Read our FAQ about driving in Japan to decide if self-driving is right for you.
Japan’s rail system is excellent so travelling by train is another popular option for visiting Kyushu. You can take the bus when the railway line doesn’t reach your destination. For example Takachiho , one of the most popular places in Kyushu, is off the railway network. You will probably also need to take some short taxi rides too. For example to travel from the nearest station to your hotel. Luckily taxis are plentiful in Japan. You can find them waiting at most railways stations. Read our FAQ and see how much it costs to take a taxi in Fukuoka . We often plan train and bus adventures for our clients. We do all the itinerary planning, hotel bookings if required and detailed timetable research. It’s all part of our private family trip planning service . You just need to turn up at the station on time! We also advise about which rail pass to buy to get the best-value trip. JR Kyushu offers some great bargains for overseas visitors. Who doesn’t want to relax on the shinkansen (bullet train) as the Kyushu countryside whizzes by?
Hiring a private driver in Kyushu is only for the comfortably wealthy. You can expect to pay around ¥50,000+ ($500+) a day for a standard 4-seater taxi. Also please note it’s almost impossible to find drivers who speak English. Contact us if you want us to arrange a private driver in Kyushu for you. In this case we will discuss the route and timings with the driver in advance. We will also be available on the day by phone or WhatsApp to help with any language communication problems.
Joining a package group tour is the easiest way to travel. You just need to book, arrive and enjoy! You will be travelling on a private tour bus escorted by English-speaking tour leader. You usually pay an all-inclusive price except for international flights. Here at Kyushu Journeys we offers small-group intimate tours with maximum 12 participants per tour. Here are the package tours currently open for booking:
Kyushu Autumn Tour (November 2023)
Kyushu Foodie Tour (January 2024)
Kyushu Cherry Blossom Tour (March 2024)
We can also arrange private escorted package tours just for you, your friends and family. Contact us for details.
This post has 6 comments.
Does it snow in Kyusho at the end of December? Will driving be difficult during this period?
Snowfall depends on the region and altitude, but generally the roads are well-maintained and there is little snow in coastal regions. Of course drive carefully and be aware of ice in the more rural/high altitude areas, but overall you shouldn’t be worried.
Amazing resource for smaller areas in Kyushu.. exactly what I was looking for.
I’m planning to Kyushu this end of April or early of May
Hi Linda, the weather is usually nice at that time of year but please note it is Golden Week in Japan. This means peak travel season so many hotels get full quickly and prices increase. If you can change your dates it may be better. Feel free to email [email protected] for more info, cheers, Simon
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Endless energy, wild beauty and warm smiles
Japan’s southernmost island is a dynamic landscape of active volcanoes, hot springs and fertile farmlands. Kyushu is epitomized by the words Energy, Fertility and Gateway, representing its natural energy and dynamic people, the rich soil that blesses the island with delicious food, and its history as a link between Japan and the world. Kyushu is a land of energy, from its vibrant people to its famous volcanoes. Rich volcanic soil and regular rainfall have contributed to the region’s reputation as a gourmet destination, famous for its citrus fruits, seafood, and rich, pork-based ramen. Kyushu is closer to Korea than Tokyo but easily reached from every major city in Japan. More than anything, Kyushu is characterized by the friendly people who call this island home. Over a thousand years of connections with other cultures has created a sense of warmth and acceptance, welcoming newcomers with a smile.
The people of Kyushu live in harmony with nature’s power. It’s an exciting landscape that exists nowhere else, of wide plains, relaxing beaches, active volcanoes, dramatic calderas and abundant hot springs. Feel the energy of Kyushu’s dynamic people and natural power. It’s an island full of life.
Thanks to Kyushu’s warm climate, bountiful seas and rich soil, this is an island of abundance, famous for its food. Feast on delicious dishes, created with love and care. Explore the many shades of green, from terraced rice fields and rolling farmlands to deep emerald gorges and mysterious forests that will soothe your soul.
Close to Asia and ringed by sea, Kyushu is the historic gateway to Japan, known for being open to new ideas. Its culture and traditions have been enriched by active trade and interaction with the rest of Asia. The people of Kyushu have welcomed visitors for thousands of years, and are ready to welcome you, too.
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Kyushu is a land full of energy, from its vibrant people to its famous volcanoes. Close to the rest of Asia and easily accessible from Tokyo, Kyushu has welcomed new ideas and cultures for over a thousand years. Experience the dynamic landscapes, relax in the many hot springs, and enjoy the warmth of genuine hospitality.
Explore Kyushu's historic sites, modern cities and natural beauty with this comprehensive travel guide. Find top destinations, ratings, photos and tips for each prefecture in Kyushu.
Explore Japan's southern island of Kyushu, famous for its ramen, hot springs, mountains and beaches. Find the best places to visit in Kyushu, from Fukuoka to Yakushima, with this official travel guide.
Explore Kyushu's top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs on this interactive map. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below, and get directions, export options, and trip planning tools.
Here are some important things to note before we get started: I've combined two of my personal itineraries to create this 7-10 day Kyushu travel guide.; For Days 1-4, I recommend using public transport such as the trains and express airport bus.; From Day 5 onwards, a rental car is the best option to reach more remote areas.; I also recommend using Kumamoto as a base, due to its central ...
The Official Kyushu Travel Guide | Kyushu Tourism Organization | Visit ...
Kyushu is Japan's warm and friendly southern island, with verdant green hills, active volcanoes, abundant hot springs and delicious food. It's also well connected to the world, with many transport options, lively cities and free Wi-Fi in many areas. Here are some tips on when to go, where to stay and how to make the most of your trip. LEARN MORE.
As this schedule serves as an inspiration for your perfect trip to Kyushu, you can choose to leave out places or change the timing. Table of contents. The best time to visit Kyushu. How to get to Kyushu and around. Day 1: Fukuoka. Day 2: Fukuoka - Saga - Nagasaki. Day 3: Nagasaki - Shimabara - Kumamoto.
Explore Kyushu, Japan's southernmost island, with this comprehensive guide. Find out when to visit, where to stay, how to get around, and what to see in each prefecture, from Fukuoka to Kagoshima.
Kyushu. Kyūshū (Japanese: 九州) is the southernmost of the four main islands of Japan. The climate is slightly warmer and more tropical than Honshu, and the southern and eastern coasts are regularly battered by typhoons each year. The terrain is generally mountainous with very fertile valleys much like the rest of Japan, except for the wide ...
Say hello to Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Oita, Saga, Kumamoto, Miyazaki and Kagoshima. Kyushu, home to the most active volcanoes in Japan, and one of the earliest regions in Japan to receive foreigners, has a very interesting environment and history. For the nature-inclined, visit the ethereal Yakushima Island with its ancient cedars and moss covered ...
See way to experience (1) 2024. 2. Huis Ten Bosch. 2,241. Amusement & Theme Parks. Opened in 1992, this theme park is actually a recreation of a 17th-century Dutch village complete with authentic architecture, canals and historic sites. The park is compilation of hotels, attractions….
Located in the northernmost of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka Prefecture is the largest and most populated prefecture in Kyushu. Fukuoka City, the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture is a modern city with large shopping complexes, underground shopping streets, and plenty of restaurants to enjoy Fukuoka foods.The popular spots for tourists in Fukuoka City include the Tenjin area, Canal City Hakata, and ...
Mount Karakuni is the highest peak in the Kirishima Mountain Range of Kyushu Island in Japan with a height of 1,700 meters. Mount Karakuni has a volcanic crater, which is 900 meters and 300 meters deep. The hike up from the visitor center is relatively short with just a few kilometers in distance but quite steep.
Plan on the go with our free travel app. With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline. 4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play. Keep your places to visit, flight/hotel reservations, and day-by-day itineraries for your trip to Kyushu in our web and mobile app vacation ...
Day 1: Hiroshima. Land in Osaka in the morning, go to Hiroshima immediately, and spend all day in Hiroshima. Day 2: Fukuoka. Travel to Fukuoka in the morning, then spend time in Fukuoka All-Day. Day 3: Nagasaki. Travel to Nagasaki in the morning and spend the rest of the day in Nagasaki. Day 5: Nagasaki & Fukuoka.
Hells of Beppu. Kyushu is an island of natural beauty and boundless energy. From its active volcanoes and steaming hot springs to its vibrant history, rich culture and delicious food, there is so much to explore in Kyushu. Whether you're planning a leisurely break, a family trip or a wild adventure, you'll find a warm welcome, wherever you go.
Day 1 - Fukuoka. Explore Fukuoka city and check out the city's famous food stalls (yatai) in the evening. Day 2 - Fukuoka to Nagasaki. Travel to Nagasaki and explore the city. Stay overnight there. Day 3 - Nagasaki to Kagoshima. Leave Nagasaki early and head to Kagoshima in southern Kyushu. Check out Sakurajima, an active volcano and the symbol ...
Kyushu Kyūshū is the southernmost of the four main islands of Japan. The climate is slightly warmer and more tropical than Honshu, and the southern and eastern coasts are regularly battered by typhoons each year. ... Overview: Map: Directions: Satellite: Photo Map: Tap on the map to travel: Wikivoyage. Wikipedia. Photo: NASA, Public domain ...
Takachiho gorge and waterfall in Miyazaki, Kyushu, Japan = Shutterstock. Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture is one of the top tourist attractions in Kyushu. A cliff with a height of 80-100 meters continues for 7 kilometers. You can also play boats in this valley. 2023.03.14.
There is a Tourist Information Center at each of Kyushu's regional airports, at major train stations and some sightseeing spots. Many have multi-lingual staff and services like luggage storage and printing. Larger centers such as Acros and Canal Tourist Lounge in Fukuoka, offer cultural experiences, from craft to wearing kimono.
Tanegashima Space Center. Tanegashima Space Center is said to be the most beautiful rocket-launch site in the world. It's at the very southern tip of Kyushu, surrounded by blue waters and white sand beaches. Enjoy a guided tour of the largest rocket-launch complex in Japan and learn all about space travel.
A 3-night, 4-day Kyushu driving course introducing tourist spots around Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Sasebo! It also includes tips for enjoying a drive on a budget, discount plans, and rental car coupon information. ... Map: https://x.gd/25nMv. Toll fee for driving from Fukuoka Airport to the store: from 2,320 yen.
Kyushu is a land of energy, from its vibrant people to its famous volcanoes. Rich volcanic soil and regular rainfall have contributed to the region's reputation as a gourmet destination, famous for its citrus fruits, seafood, and rich, pork-based ramen. Kyushu is closer to Korea than Tokyo but easily reached from every major city in Japan.