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DESTINATION Kyushu

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Easily reached by land, sea and air, dynamic Kyushu is bubbling with energy, culture and activity

Japan’s third-largest island is internationally famous for its tonkotsu ramen, varied hot springs, dramatic mountains, and peaceful beaches. While the startup hub of Fukuoka bubbles with international attention, the volcanic terrain to the south continues to rumble and smoke. The seismic activity has created a craggy wonderland of eight steaming hot spring areas, known collectively as Beppu Onsen , as well as soaring peaks to hike, such as Mt. Karakuni in the Kirishima mountain range . Offering a taste of both cutting-edge modernity and slow-paced living, Japan's southern island is best explored at a leisurely pace. Head south to relax on an island bursting with spectacular nature, culture and cuisine.

• The bubbling, beneficial waters of Beppu Onsen
• Chow down on a bowl of rich, creamy tonkotsu ramen in Fukuoka
• Views of smoking Sakurajima, one of Japan's most active volcanoes
• Staring into the crater of a volcano atop Mt. Aso

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Visit Kyushu

Endless energy, wild beauty and warm smiles.

Be Inspired by Kyushu

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.

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7 Distinct Prefectures

Fukuoka is the geographical and historical gateway to Asia: steeped in history, but open to new ideas and cultures. With a vibrant city and historical sites, it’s a perfect introduction to Kyushu.

A small region with a large cultural impact, Saga is rich in history, craft, and food. Experience the beautiful colors of Saga, from the bright hot air balloons to the elegant shades of Arita pottery.

Nagasaki has been shaped by history, natural forces and a blend of international influences. The city’s turbulent past has created a remarkable culture of peace and tolerance.

Kumamoto is a product of the forces of nature and its samurai heritage, symbolized by two powerful landmarks: Kumamoto Castle and Mt. Aso, Japan’s largest volcano.

Oita is famous for its hot-spring towns Beppu and Yufuin, but it also has charming castle towns and a mountainous inland, perfect for hiking and cycling.

Miyazaki is considered a home of the gods and ancient legends. Dense forests, dramatic gorges and hidden mountain villages take you back to those storied times.

Kagoshima is a beautiful land of contrasts, from Sakurajima, the active volcano, to the ancient forests of Yakushima and the tropical islands around Amami Oshima.

Top Attractions

Dazaifu tenmangu shrine.

This major Shinto shrine less than an hour from Fukuoka's city center, is famous for its abundant plum blossoms and fascinating history.

Hells of Beppu

Beppu Onsen is one of the most famous hot spring towns in Japan. Visit Beppu's colorful "hells," hot springs that reach over 100 degrees Celsius.

Kumamoto Castle

With a black facade and commanding views over the city, the castle is a symbol of Kumamoto. Although it was damaged in the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, its restoration is a sigh of hope for the area.

Ibusuki Onsen

This hot spring town at the southern tip of Kagoshima is famous for its sunamushi, or sand bathing. The sands are warmed by volcanic hot springs.

Kujukushima

Although the name translates to ninety-nine islands, there are actually 208 lushly forested islands, scattered across the bay near Sasebo. only four are inhabited.

Takachiho Gorge, one of the hidden gems of Japanese nature

©Payless images/123RF

Tokyo's famous Shibuya intersection - probably the world's largest crosswalk

©Wasin Pummarin/123RF

River in Arashiyama during fall : famous touristic site to visit in Kyoto

©Tawatchai Prakobkit/123RF

An authentic stay in one of our traditional houses in Kyoto

©JapanExperience

This famous vermilion "torii" gate is located at the entrance to Miyajima Island off the coast of Hiroshima

©coward_lion/123RF

The city of Fukuoka in Japan is the largest metropolis on the island of Kyushu. It is a gateway to Asia.

Nanzo-in Temple, 25-minute train ride from Fukuoka, attracts many pilgrims who come to see the reclining Buddha.

The ghost island of Gunkanjima, near Nagasaki. Former coal mine, it housed more than 5,300 workers

©Leung Cho Pan/123RF

Mount Aso on the island of Kyushu is the largest of Japan's volcanoes, but also one of the most active.

©danielvfung/123RF

Japanese countryside and mountains around Yufuin on Kyushu Island

©Shunsuke Ono/123RF

Umi Jigoku, or "Sea Hell", and its main basin with translucent blue waters

Insung Choi

On the volcanic black sand beach of Beppu, you can enjoy a "sand bath" facing the sea

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• Japan Experience

Kyushu: The Southern Route

• Duration : 20 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Kyoto, Miyajima, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Takachiho, Yufuin, Beppu, Osaka
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This Japan tour takes you from Tokyo to the island of Kyushu .

After the modern-day capital, Kyoto and Hiroshima - Miyajima , visit Kyushu : historic Nagasaki , medieval Kumamoto , or the thermal baths at Beppu ! Round off with an overnight stay on a ferry to Osaka .

Japan's third largest island has an astonishingly beautiful natural landscape of sea and mountains .

20-day itinerary

• Departure city/Airport : Tokyo (Narita : NRT or Haneda : HND )
• Tokyo (3 nights)
• Kyoto (3 nights, including one day-trip in  Nara )
• Miyajima and  Hiroshima (1 night)
• Fukuoka (2 nights)
• Nagasaki (2 nights)
• Kumamoto (2 nights)
• Kumamoto area ( Mount Aso or  Kagoshima , 2 nights)
• Takachiho (1 night)
• Yufuin (2 nights)
• Beppu (1 night)
• Osaka (2 nights)
• Return city/Airport : Osaka (Kansai International Airport : KIX )

Please find below the itinerary details.

Tour length : 19 nights / 20 days ( + 1 day at the beginning if you leave from Europe )

PLEASE NOTE : The departure and end dates shown on this page only apply to your stay in Japan. You must therefore leave Europe the day before the first day of your tour. The date of your return flight and that of your return to Europe are identical due to the time difference.

Example : 

• Departure from Europe : January 1st
• Arrival in Tokyo ( = the date to be selected in the calendar when booking ) : January 2nd
• Return flight from Kansai International Airport KIX / Return to Europe : January 21st

Please note that flights are not included in the price of your tour.

This tour information was  last updated on May 30 , 2024.

Like this tour but would prefer to visit the mystical island of Yakushima, in the south of Kyushu, famous for its lush nature ? Our Hiking in Japan tour takes you there!

Why this trip to Japan ?

• Welcomed at the airport  by our team, you will be taken to your hotel in Tokyo by shuttle bus
• Travel by Shinkansen to Kyoto : a  guided tour  of the traditional geisha quarter awaits you
• In Kyoto, a travel angel will welcome you to a  traditional Japan Experience house
• Reach Hiroshima and the sacred island of Miyajima where you will spend a night in a ryokan
• Fukuoka, the capital of Kyushu Island, will be your first stop on this large volcanic island
• Visit Nagasaki, Kumamoto, the Aso or Sakurajima volcanoes, the Takachiho gorges and Yufuin 
• After a final stop at Beppu for a spa treatment , you will embark on an overnight cruise to Osaka
• Enjoy unlimited  internet access  thanks to your pocket Wi-Fi
• If needed, contact our bilingual Japanese/English-speaking assistance team available 7/7
• A number of guided days or other optional activities are available
• Benefit from the expertise of  Japan Experience , European leading travel agency in Japan.

Your trip in detail

Day 1 : wake up in tokyo 東京.

Arrival in Japan

©Vasin Leenanuruksa / 123RF

Arrival at Tokyo airport (Narita NRT or Haneda HND ). Welcome to Japan! 日本へようこそ！

Welcome through customs by our airport assistant, who will give you all your travel documents and your Pocket WiFi. Unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo (see details).

The transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other guests departing for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your scheduled flight arrival, and stops may be made before your hotel.

If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the arrival of your flight, feel free to take the " Private Taxi from the Airport " option.

Check in at Hotel OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts or similar category 3* hotel (rooms available from 3pm).

Day 2 : First steps in the capital

Tokyo tower by night

©Sean Pavone/123RF

What to do in Tokyo on your first day

We recommend that you start your visit to Tokyo slowly by visiting the following districts: - Harajuku , the avant-garde district  - Meiji Jingû , the imperial sanctuary  - Takeshita-Dôri , a must-see street in the capital  - Omotesandô , Tokyo's Champs-Élysées  - Shibuya and its impressive crossroads

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Tokyo (optional, from 9am to 5pm).

Day 3 : The big loop

Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, Tokyo

©Moiz K. Malik/Unsplash

For this second day of sightseeing in Tokyo, we recommend the following "loop".

Start at Tokyo Central Station, with its original architecture, then head off to visit : - Ginza , Tokyo's chic district ; - Tsukiji , the small outdoor food market ; - Hama-rikyû , the Japanese garden between Tokyo's buildings ; - Asakusa , a traditional district and place of pilgrimage, accessible by cruise on the Sumida river ; - Sensô-ji , the oldest Buddhist temple in the Japanese capital ; - Tokyo Sky Tree , 643 metres high, with its panoramic view of Tokyo at sunset.

Between Hama-rikyû Garden and Asakusa, why not enjoy a cruise on the Sumida River ?

Day 4 : The former capital

Old streets in Gion, traditional Kyoto district : a must-see when visiting Kyoto

In the morning, reach Kyoto via shinkansen (included in your package).

From noon onwards, you can settle into your traditional Japan Experience house . A Travel Angel will welcome you, show you some unique details and help you to have an unforgettable stay in Kyoto. You will be able to " live the Japanese way " for a few days, with a space much bigger than a hotel room and a kitchen to prepare good Japanese food!

You have 3 days to visit Kyoto. Start in the afternoon in the historic Gion district, close to your accommodation : - Kiyomizu-Dera , the impressive water temple ; - The historic lanes of Sannen-zaka & Ninnen-zaka ; - Kôdai-ji , Kyoto's temple of maple trees and bamboo. Finish your day with a stroll through the Gion district and enjoy the sunset. Meet your guide at 7 p.m. to start your evening walk around Gion , Kyoto's historic district. More details on the exact day and meeting point can be found in your travel guide.

At the end of this 1h30 walk, your guide will be able to recommend the best places to eat dinner! Please note that it is strictly forbidden to take pictures in the historic district of Gion.

Day 5 : Gold and Silver Treasures

Visit Ryoan-ji, Kyoto, the most famous rock and zen garden in Japan

©Philippe Voisin

We recommend the following itinerary for this second day's visit to Kyoto: - The Zen garden of Ryôan-ji  - Kinkaku-ji ( Golden Pavilion )  - Ginkaku-ji ( Silver Pavilion ) - The enchanting Philosopher's Path   - Nanzen-ji temple

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can accompany you on a tour of these iconic sites (available as an option, from 9am to 5pm).

Day 6 : Between temples and deer

Nara Sika deers are sacred, and protected as National Treasures.

©nicholashan/123RF

For the last day in Kyoto and its surroundings, we recommend taking the 50 minute journey to Nara (Suica accessible).

Visit Nara , Japan's first fixed capital in the 8th century. Discover: - The Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine and its thousands of lanterns   - Tôdai-ji , with its great bronze Buddha and the imposing Nan-Daimon gate   - Kôfuku-ji temple and its delightful pagoda

Return to Kyoto and stop to see the sunset at the Fushimi Inari-taisha , Kyoto's immense shrine of 10,000 torii .

If you wish to be accompanied on this day, one of our English-speaking guides will reveal all the secrets of Japan's first capital (optional).

Day 7 : The Sacred Island

The sacred island of Miyajima and its famous torii with feet in water, worth a visit off Hiroshima in Japan

In the morning, we advise that you have your luggage sent to the hotel in Fukuoka (details in your travel diary, check with the hotel reception) and that you travel light for your night in Miyajima .

Take the shinkansen to Miyajima (about 2h20, 1 change) then then boat (20 minutes, with Suica), both included in your package.

Reach your ryôkan near the island's ferry terminal. The time to explore the island has come ! Its Itsukushima-jinja shrine and the great Ôtorii gate built into the sea are definitely a must-see.

Take the cable car up to Mount Misen and then descend on foot. A breathtaking view of Hiroshima Bay awaits you!

At the ryôkan , you will be treated to a tasty traditional Japanese dinner before retiring to your tatami room .

Day 8 : Make way for history

The Genbaku Dome, one of the only buildings not destroyed by the atomic bomb that fell on Hiroshima

Traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryôkan .

In the morning, make a brief stop in Hiroshima (30 minutes by train from Miyajimaguchi Ferry Station, with Suica) and visit the Peace Park and its memorial .

From Hiroshima , head to the island of Kyushu and its capital, Fukuoka , just 1 hour away by shinkansen (included in your package).

Arrive in the centre of the vibrant city of Fukuoka and check into your hotel located near the central station.

With its 2000 years of history, the capital of Kyushu has always been the gateway to Asia (Korea and China) and Western culture (Portugal and its Jesuits, Holland). Another Japan, further away from Tokyo, awaits you. 

Capital of a booming region, Fukuoka is now one of the most dynamic cities in Japan with its many high-tech companies and the hosting of a global event : the Rugby World Cup in October 2019.

Visit the lively Nakasu and Tenjin districts and their hundreds of delicious and welcoming open-air restaurants at low prices " yatai ". A great way to spend one final evening!

Day 9 : The capital of Kyushu

In the morning, meet your English-speaking guide and explore Fukuoka's many iconic sites: - Momochi district : Fukuoka Tower and other futuristic buildings - Japan in the 22nd century  - Canal City Hakata , a huge shopping center seamlessly integrates with a city park and charming canals  - Asian Art Museum , the world's first museum for modern Asian art  - Shôfoku-ji Temple , the oldest Zen temple in all of Japan  - Hakata Machiya , a captivating district lined with traditional merchants' houses

In the afternoon you can continue your tour of Fukuoka, embark on a nearby adventure, or delve deeper into the city's offerings: - The beaches around Fukuoka, such as Itoshima or Kusatsu , a quick 45-minute trip from Fukuoka - Dazaifu , the most famous temple complex on the whole island of Kyushu, south of Fukuoka

In the evening, second night in your hotel in Fukuoka.

Day 10 : A rich past open to the world

Nagasaki has always been Japan's gateway to the world

©Hruruk/Pixabay

2 hour trip to Nagasaki (direct, included in your package) and accommodation in your 3* hotel or same category hotel.

In addition to its sad history during the Second World War, the city offers visitors evidence of its rich past. A trading port to Asia, and for a long time Japan's only gateway to the outside world, it was also a place of refuge for Japanese Christians persecuted during the Edo era.

We advise you the following spots : -  Glover's garden (former foreign concession) and Oura basilica  - Dejima museum-polder (former Dutch concession)  - The memorial and museum of 26 martyrs  - The Sôfukuji Chinese temple  - The Atomic Bomb Museum

Day 11 : Between the sea and the Japanese countryside

Breakfast at the hotel.

There is no shortage of day trips from Nagasaki: - Gunkanjima ghost island (boat tickets optional) - The Shimabara coast, with the slopes of the Unzen volcano, one of the most active in the world, whose 1991 eruption cost the lives of volcanologists Katia and Maurice Krafft

And some slightly more cheerful sites: - The floating torii on the sea , with superb views from the coast - The village of Amari , famous for its Japanese ceramics - A theme park recreating a Dutch region, symbolising the common past of the two countries These places are accessible with your Japan Rail Pass, in 1 to 2 hours from Nagasaki, direct or with a change. The Shimabara side is only accessible with a private line train, which can be used with your offer's pre-payment card.

Day 12 : The feudal heart of Kyushu

Japanese garden in Kumamoto, on Kyushu island

©Alexander Trofimov/123RF

Leave for Kumamoto (2 hour train and Shinkansen, 1 change, all included). Arrival in the feudal city of Kumamoto. We recommend a visit to its castle and park , as well as the magnificent Suizen-ji garden , accessible by tram from the centre. Check-in at your 3*  hotel in the heart of Kumamoto.

Day 13 : On the Japanese volcano road

©shawnccf/123RF

In the morning, we advise you to send your luggage to your hotel in Yufuin (details in your travel diary, check with the hotel reception) so that you can travel light for your night in Takachiho .

Go for a day trip to discover a still active volcano: Mount Aso, east of Kumamoto, or Sakurajima, in the south: - Mount Aso , accessible in 1h45 (JR train and bus), is one of the largest calderas in the world, where 50.000 people live while the volcano that created it is still active. A volcano museum, a cable car with a view of one of the craters and a short hike are on the agenda for this extraordinary day.

- Sakurajima borders the city of Kagoshima , the capital of southern Kyushu. It is nicknamed " the Naples of Japan " for its proximity to this active volcano reminiscent of Vesuvius. The city of Kagoshima can be reached in 1h by shinkansen , direct and included in your package. In addition to the view of one of Japan's most famous volcanoes, Kagoshima has a fabulous garden worth visiting: the Senga-en. From Kagoshima , it's possible to approach the volcano .

Day 14 : Myths and legends

Leave for Takachiho , in the centre of Kyushu Island, by bus (3 hours, direct, no changes, included in your offer). Arrival at noon. Settle in your minshuku (between a ryôkan and a family inn) right next to the bus terminal.

Go on foot to discover the richness of this mountain village known for its Japanese legends and magnificent ravines : -  Gokase river gorges one of the most beautiful natural sites in Kyushu  - Amanoiwato Jinja Shinto temple, Japan's second most sacred site  - Evening show of sacred dances (divine gestures) Iwato Kagura 

In the evening, explore the surroundings of the village sanctuary: - Discover the rice terraces , a must-see in the Japanese countryside - Climb to the Kunimigaoka observation platform, to enjoy a splendid panorama of the surrounding mountains , and on a clear day to Mount Aso

The proposed sites are located within a 10 minute to 1.5 hour walk from your accommodation. Gokase Gorge , the most famous site in Takachiho, is a 30-minute walk away. Local taxis and buses also operate in the area.

In the evening, you can enjoy a tasty dinner in your accommodation.

Day 15 : Kyushu's famous gorges

Breakfast at the  minshuku .

In the morning, continue your exploration of Takachiho, then leave at noon for Yufuin (1 hour by bus and 3 hours by train with 1 change, included in your package). The train travels through fabulous Japanese mountain, countryside and coastal scenery, far from the usual tourist trails.

At the end of the afternoon, you will arrive in Yufuin, where you can settle in a ryôkan where a traditional dinner will be served.

Day 16 : Picturesque spa village

Lake Kinrinko is a large spring fed pond in the quaint onsen village of Yufuin in Kyushu island, Japan

©JO-YI CHANG/123RF

Located at the foot of the majestic, verdant Mount Yufu , you will enjoy this spa, one of Japan's favourites. Not to mention the tranquility of the warm waters of Lake Kirin-ko in the centre of town, or the ever-present surrounding nature. A peaceful break on this trip!

Don't forget to send your luggage to your hotel in Osaka so that you can travel light the following day (check with the reception of your ryokan, details in your travel diary).

In the evening, second dinner and night in your ryôkan .

Day 17 : The city of steaming onsens

©Jordy Meow

Leave by train to Beppu (1h10, 1 change, included in your package). This large city, on the coast is home to nearly 3000 hot springs! With the feel of an industrial town, Beppu offers baths for all tastes , both for sightseeing and for soaking! Unfortunately, this city has been taken over by mass tourism, mainly Japanese and Asian. 

However, the walking tour of the 8 Beppu hells (including the Blood Lake) is unique : it winds its way through various open pools of volcanic water. Many spa experiences await you in Beppu , including the famous black sand baths . Travel around the city by local bus from the central station.

In the early evening, head to the waterfront and its marine terminal to board a cruise ship. Dinner will be served here, before a night cradled by the waves. Travel overnight along Japan's calm inland sea and arrive early the next morning in Osaka .

Day 18 : First steps in the capital of Kansai

Osaka castle is surrounded by a park full of cherry and plum trees

©Josemaria Toscano/123RF

From the Osaka ferry terminal, reach your 3* Osaka Intergate Umeda hotel or same category hotel  by metro (20 minutes, 1 change) or taxi.

What is there to do in Osaka in 2 days ? We recommend that you start your visit to Osaka slowly, in the northern and eastern districts :

- Osaka's medieval castle , with its park full of plum and cherry trees  - The city centre and Nakanoshima Island , with its rose park surrounded by buildings  - Utsubo Park , a cool oasis in the business district  - Visit Umeda , the temple of Japanese shopping  - Finish off with the Umeda Sky building at dusk for a 360° view of Kansai (including Kyoto on a clear day!)

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Osaka (optional, from 9am to 5pm). 

Day 19 : Day 14 : Gastronomic introduction

Osaka - Dotonbori - Canal

©Juliana Barquero - unsplash

This is the last day of your Japan tour. For your second day in Osaka, we recommend the following itinerary:

- Osaka Kaiyûkan Aquarium , the world's largest aquarium in terms of volume  - The Tennôji district and its Shitennô-ji Buddhist temple , one of the oldest in Japan  - Spa World , Japan's largest thermal baths ( onsen )  - Shinseikai , with its retro charm  - DenDen machi , the technologeek village  - Finish off with Dôtonbori , the liveliest district in Japan

Day 20 : Sayonara, and see you next time!

Sayonara - bye bye Japan !

©Maksims Grigorjevs/123RF

Take a direct transfer to Kansai International Airport (included but not accompanied).

This transfer is by shuttle or shared bus, with other customers departing from the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers arrive between 3 hours and 1.5 hours before the actual departure of your flight, and stops can be made before you arrive at the airport.

If you prefer a private transfer at a time of your choice, direct to the airport and with no intermediate stops, select the "Private Taxi to Airport" option.

Return flight to Europe, North America, Australia.

Don't hesitate to extend your trip by a few days, in the Kansai area or elsewhere...Get in touch and we would be happy to advise you!

Included in your self-guided tour

Accommodation

- 3  nights in a 3* hotel  in the heart of Tokyo, close to public transportation

- 3 nights in a traditional Kyoto house

- 1  night in a 3* ryôkan  in Miyajima (on or opposite the island), traditional half-board

- 2  nights in a 3* hotel  in Fukuoka

- 2  nights in a 3* hotel  in Nagasaki

- 2  nights in a 3* hotel  in Kumamoto

- 1 night in minshuku  in Takachiho, traditional half-board

- 2 nights in a 3* r yôkan  in Yufuin, traditional half-board

- 1 night on the Beppu - Osaka ferry , dinner included

- 2  nights in a 3* hotel in Osaka

The basic rate includes a twin room for two people.

- Airport transfer to Tokyo HND or NRT

- Return airport transfer Osaka > Kansai International Airport KIX

- Prepaid public transport card

- Shinkansen tickets for Tokyo > Kyoto, seats reserved in standard class

- Shinkansen tickets for Kyoto > Hiroshima, seats reserved in standard class

- Shinkansen tickets for Hiroshima > Fukuoka, seats reserved in standard class

- North Kyushu Pass 3 days 

- Bus tickets for Kumamoto > Takachiho

- Bus tickets for Takachiho > Nobeoka

Experiences and meals

- Airport meet and greet  

- Welcome to Kyoto  by a Travel Angel

- Traditional dinner and breakfast included in the 4 traditional lodgings of the tour

- The  breakfasts  in Nagasaki and Kumamoto

- Dinner on the boat from Beppu to Osaka

- Night guided tour of Gion, Kyoto

- Half-day guided tour of Fukuoka 

Additional services

- Unlimited internet access with Pocket WiFi

- Complete digital travel guide sent before your departure

- Luggage transfer between your hotels in Kumamoto > Yufuin and Yufuin > Osaka

- Telephone assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Japanese bilingual. The number will be given to you in your travel pack. This phone number is valid for telephone calls and also for WhatsApp.

Not included in the price of your trip

- Flights Europe <> Japan

- Optional insurance

- Personal expenses, including meals (breakfasts can sometimes be added as an option at your hotel reception, see details). For other meals, you will find addresses selected by us in your travel pack.

- Public transport once your transport cards have run out (see details)

- Everything not mentioned in the section "Included in your tour".

More about your trip

Your tour :

• The prices displayed on this page may vary according to the exchange rate of the Japanese ¥.
• Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
• Children and babies accepted. From 3 to 11 years old a child rate is offered. In each accommodation, a standard adult bed will be offered to them, and a standard seat will be allocated to them in transport. From 0 to 2 years old inclusive, a "baby" rate is offered. This price corresponds to the allocation of a cot in the majority of the accommodation of the chosen circuit. However, we cannot guarantee a baby cot in each accommodation.
• Pets are not allowed.
• This programme is subject to change due to circumstances such as weather conditions or any other case of force majeure. Please note that due to the current circumstances, any information mentioned is subject to change or modification.
• Travel diary by email maximum 8 days before departure, and other electronic documents 
• Paper documents (airport transfer ticket, transportation card, Japan Rail Pass voucher) and Pocket WiFi upon arrival at the airport by our airport assistant.
• Note : In very rare cases, mostly in very high season, steps might be reversed. You will be informed in your mini travel-guide. Thanks for your kind understanding.

Your accommodation :

• Some hotels may ask you to pay a tourist tax on arrival. This depends on the city and even the hotel, as some do not include it in the booking price. Normally, it is 200¥/night/person (about £1.37/1.93$) but can be slightly higher in 4* hotels. It must be paid in cash at the hotel reception. For traditional Japan Experience accommodations, it is included in the initial tour price.
• Room size: in Japan, a densely populated country where everything is compact, 3-star luxury hotels are of very good quality but the rooms are often quite narrow (12 to 20m2/129 sq ft to 215 sq ft) depending on the hotel. Please note the size of the single room, between 10 and 16m2 (107sq ft and 172 fq ft). For more comfort, you can choose our luxury 4* accommodation upgrade option. 
• Double room: Rooms for two people in western hotels have 2 single beds (twin rooms) by default, which can usually be joined together. As an option, you can select a double room instead of a twin if you prefer a double bed. This option is not valid in the Japan Experience house in Kyoto nor in the ryokans (on individual futons).
• Single room: People travelling alone and wishing to book a single room must pay a supplement at the time of booking. The single room supplement is compulsory for orders with an odd number of participants. Please note that if you request more than two people in a single room, the single room supplement will be applied to all accommodation except for the ryokans (3 and 4*). In fact, as this is traditional accommodation, people with the same reservation are grouped together in spacious rooms for up to 5 people.
• 3-person room: If there are 3, 5 or more of you and you do not select the single supplement, a triple room will be allocated to you.
• In the case of a group order (> 5 people), it is possible, depending on hotel availability, that not all members of the group will be accommodated in the same hotel. Nevertheless, we aim to keep you close. 
• Names of the hotels : The names given on the site are for information only. In the event of unavailability, an establishment of equivalent standing will be scheduled. Hotels, corresponding to local standards, are given as an indication and may be changed on site for hotels of a similar category.
• In the ryôkan and Takachiho accommodation, the rooms have a private sink and toilet. The single-sex collective Japanese baths (" onsen ") then act as shared bathrooms, with showers and thermal baths. They are freely accessible, at the times in force on the site. These baths are often not accessible to people with clearly visible tattoo(s). The latter are invited to contact us to evaluate the possibilities of accommodation with private baths or shared baths that can be reserved.
• On the Beppu-> Osaka ferry, the standard class cabins have a washbasin. There is a single communal toilet and bath on the upper deck. Rooms do not have windows. The 4* option will offer you a premium cabin.
• The 4* ryôkan (see 4* option) have comfortable futons raised on either western beds in a traditional tatami room. The bathrooms and toilets of the 4* ryôkan are private.
• Traditional house in Kyoto: each house has been chosen for its location (transport, shops, temples...) and thus to facilitate your stay. Most of them are either located in the historical district of Gion or on the edge of the Path of Philosophy and the Silver Temple. All lodgings have at least one Japanese tatami room and are equipped with a minimum of 3 beds, either in a single western bed (not double) or on a futon. Do not hesitate to specify in your comments that you want to sleep in a western bed.

Your transport :

• Flights are not included in this tour . Do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to include flights in your order: Flights in economy class with stopovers or direct flights, eco-premium or business air upgrades, provincial departures or abroad: we will be able to advise you.
• The tour departure and end dates presented on this page relate to your stay in Japan. You will arrive in Japan via Tokyo (Narita or Haneda airports) and depart from Kansai airport (KIX, not Itami ITM). On departure, you will have to leave Europe the day before and land at 6:30 p.m. at the most to make the most of the airport services of your circuit (reception and transfer to Tokyo). The return flight is on the same day due to the time difference, with a departure time of 9am at the earliest. Please do not hesitate to consult us for any uncertainty or need for precision in the choice of international flights.
• If the flights have been purchased by your care without the intervention of Japan Experience, it is necessary to send us by mail 1 month before your departure your flight information (flight number, airport, date and time of arrival) to allow us organise your welcome and airport transfer.
• Airport Transfers: The shared limousine bus leaves from the airport and stops either in front of your hotel or at a stop within 1-15 minutes walk from your hotel. Our airport assistant in Tokyo will drive you to the platform to pick up the airport transfer. The transfer to the hotel is unassisted. If you wish to be accompanied from the airport to your hotel reception, please choose the option "Accompanied Airport Transfer". This transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other clients leaving for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers leave between 1.5 and 3 hours after your flight's scheduled arrival and stops can be made before your hotel. If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the actual arrival of your flight, feel free to take the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option. Please note: due to the many changes in flight schedules by the airlines, if the airline notifies you of a change in arrival time less than 72 hours before your departure, and if it exceeds 45 minutes, we cannot guarantee your airport shuttle. You will then have to take a taxi at your own expense, requesting a refund from your airline for abusive schedule changes. The same applies to your return journey: 72 hours before your return flight, we cannot change the shuttle schedule. Similarly, you will have to take a taxi booked with the hotel, at your own expense, with reimbursement procedures with the airline company being the only solution. Japan Experience is not responsible for last minute schedule changes.
• Included in your tour is a pre-charged transport prepayment card of ¥ 1,500 (around £10.30 / 14.54$) (suica or Pasmo brand); Shinkansen tickets for Tokyo > Kyoto, Shinkansen tickets for Kyoto > Hiroshima, Shinkansen tickets for Hiroshima > Fukuoka (seats reserved in standard class), a North Kyushu Pass 3 days, bus tickets for Kumamoto > Takachiho and bus tickets for Takachiho > Nobeoka. These cards/tickets should cover a large part of your trips during the stay. Upon expiry of the 1,500¥ Transport Prepayment Card, or if the line you are travelling on is not covered by your Japan Rail Pass, any travel will be at your own expense by recharging your pre-paid transport card (at vending machines in all stations and metro stations). 

Your activities :

• Airport reception is in English. Your airport assistant will be waiting for you at the customs exit holding a sign with the name of the reservation. They will give you your travel documents and take you to your airport transfer. They will not accompany you to Tokyo (this is possible, but optional).
• An English speaking Travel Angel who is a specialist in Japan will be there to welcome you to your traditional house in Kyoto. They will give you the keys, explain how the house and its facilities work, give you a tour of the area (tourist sites, supermarkets, bike rental...) and answer all your questions. They will be available throughout your stay in case of any problems or questions.
• The guided tour of Gion lasts around 2 hours and departs at 7pm. Please note that the tour will be conducted in English if your group is made up of travellers of different nationalities. More details on the meeting point in your travel pack. Dinner is not included, but your guide will be able to recommend the best places to eat.
• The half-day guided tour of Fukuoka takes place in the morning or in the afternoon and is private. The tour is conducted in English. Any transport is at your own expense. Lunch is not included in the activity.

Your meals :

• Breakfasts which are not included in your package can be added at the reception when you arrive at the hotel. However, you will find many cafés near your hotel serving copious breakfasts, often tastier than those in the hotels, which sometimes have tight schedules and are predominantly savoury. However, if you would like to add breakfast to your offer when you make your reservation, you can select it as an option.
• Traditional Japanese dinner and Japanese breakfast (mostly savoury) are included in your ryôkan and minshuku . Do not hesitate to indicate any dietary requirements you may have, we will pass them on to the accommodations so that they can take them into account when planning the meals. If the accommodations does not take any of these dietary requirements into account, we cannot be held responsible and no compensation will be issued.
• Japan Experience houses come with a fully equipped kitchens and are located close to markets.
• Dinner (excluding drinks) on the Beppu -> Osaka ferry is included.

Your additional services:

• A pocket wifi is included in your tour. It allows unlimited high-speed internet access. Your Pocket WiFi will be given to you at the airport of arrival.
• It comes with a small booklet to operate your device (don't panic: simple operation) and a prepaid envelope to return your device at the end of your stay. Your pocket wifi will work naturally until the last day of your trip to Japan.
• A maximum of 5 devices can be connected to a pocket wifi (phone, tablet, computer).
• A single pocket wifi is provided for a circuit order of 1 to 5 people. For an order of 6 people or more, a second pocket wifi will be added automatically and at no extra cost to your reservation.

When you buy, Japan Experience offers you 2 types of protection:

Japan Experience Flex :  Cancellation insurance before departure under conditions.

Japan Experience Protect : Pre-departure cancellation insurance under conditions and on-site assistance under conditions. 

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa? Do I need vaccinations?

As of October 11, 2022, Japan will open its borders to all Europeans (including the European Union, the United Kingdom and Switzerland) and North Americans (Canada and the United States) without requiring a visa.

Only non-triply vaccinated travelers need a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours prior to departure.

Do I still need a visa to travel to Japan as a tourist?

No, no visa is required for blue countries including all European countries (European Union, United Kingdom and Switzerland included) and North American countries (Canada and United States). List of blue countries: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html . If you have another nationality, please contact the Japanese embassy in your country of residence to obtain this visa.

Do I still need a PCR or antigen test to go to Japan?

No, if you are triple vaccinated with the vaccines approved by Japan (Pfizer, Moderna, ...exhaustive list here : https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page24e_000317.html ) there is no need for any test.

I do not have 3 doses of vaccine or I am not vaccinated against COVID, can I enter Japan?

Proof of Covid vaccines is no longer required for travelers from "blue" countries. Therefore, unvaccinated travelers can enter Japan if they live in blue countries. But a negative PCR test is required at embarkation for travelers who are not vaccinated 3 times.

Is there still a quarantine upon arrival in Japan?

Quarantine and testing on arrival have been eliminated for travelers from blue countries.

Is insurance mandatory?

No, but it is recommended. Japan Experience, as an option of its tours, provides appropriate travel insurance solutions.

What anti-covid measures are still in place in Japan?

The mask must be worn indoors (except in exceptional cases) and in transportation.

What applications should I download before entering Japan?

For tracking the evolution of the coronavirus epidemic, the Japanese government recommends downloading several applications:

MySOS, the health and location tracking app (it will be used to confirm your location, health status and accommodation).

COCOA, the COVID-19 contact confirmation app (this will be used to notify you of possible contact with a COVID-19 positive person).

For more information, please visit: https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/manual/pdf-en/summary.pdf 

What are the essentials for a first trip to Japan?

The must-see places for a first trip to Japan are:

• Tokyo, the megalopolis with a thousand sides to it
• Kyoto, the capital of sophistication and Nara, with its temples and deer
• Hiroshima, between memory and modern times, and its sacred island Miyajima
• Mount Fuji, Japan's most famous mountain
• The Japanese Alps: Takayama, Matsumoto, Shirakawa-go
• Kanazawa, both modern and traditional, on the Sea of Japan

And many other unforgettable places to discover in our tours.

Guided or self-guided tour... what type of tour should you go for?

Whether you want to discover new things or discover yourself, stay in a fully organised tour or take a leisurely one: at Japan Experience, you will find a tour to suit your needs! Discover our 3 tour formulas now: guided, self-guided or personalised tour: Guided tours: Travelling with a specialist Would you like to travel with a small group of 8 to 12 people, accompanied by a private English-speaking guide? Classic destinations or off the beaten path, Japan Experience offers many guided tours, for all kinds of budget. Offering several departure dates throughout the year, these tours start at €2,890 per person. Self-guided tours: Independent travel These tours, with pre-planned itineraries, include accommodation, flights, transport, 24-hour assistance and optional guided activities. From €540 per person, plan your days as you wish, following the recommendations in your travel diary. Tailor-made tours: Travel according to your desires Design the trip you've always dreamed of! Our specialist advisors are available by email, telephone or directly in one of our agencies to answer all your questions and help you design your own customised tour.

Is it safe to travel in Japan? What about solo travellers and children?

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, ranked in the top 10 by the Global Peace Index. Therefore travelling alone is safe. Women and girls can travel alone without fear of being harassed or solicited in public places. The same goes for children, who can be seen going to school alone in the metro from the age of 7. This can give you an idea of the country's level of safety. Last but not least, Japan is a haven for children: the safety, the amusement parks, the friendly attitude of the population.

What are the procedures for entry?

Due to the current crisis, we advise you to visit the website of the Japanese embassy in your country to find out about the procedures for entry. Normally, for citizens of the European Union, Switzerland and Canada, you just need a valid passport (for the duration of your stay). A visa is not necessary for a tourist stay of less than 90 days.

Our commitments as Japan Experience, Europe No. 1 travel in Japan

• The guarantee of the  first tour operator  specialised exclusively in Japan for 40 years
• A wide range of products to let you  Experience Japan from the inside
• Competitive prices  thanks to a single team in UK, Europe, USA and Japan, with no intermediaries
• Assistance  available in Japan throughout your trip
• A  specialised team  is available 7 days a week by phone or email
• The best advice thanks to the  3,500 articles  available on our website

Optional services

Our other self-guided tours.

Discover other Self-Guided tours like « Kyushu: The Southern Route »

City Break Osaka - Special World Expo 2025 Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 8 days
• Locations : Osaka

Tokyo, Mount Fuji & Kyoto Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 10 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Kyoto

Romantic tour in Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 13 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Okayama, Miyajima, Kyoto

Tohoku: Traditional Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 18 days
• Locations : Kyoto, Tokyo, Nikko, Sendai, Tohoku, Aomori

Slow Travel Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Duration : 21 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Okayama

City break - Tokyo tour Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Locations : Tokyo

Our activities in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Miyajima, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Takachiho, Yufuin, Beppu, Osaka

Tokyo Sumo Tournament (January, May and September) Activities in Tokyo

• Duration : 3 hour
• Location : Tokyo

Fukuoka Sumo Tournament (November) Fukuoka

• Location : Fukuoka

Tokyo Game Show Activities in Tokyo

• Duration : 5 hour

Bunraku, the traditional art of Japanese puppetry Activities in Osaka

• Duration : 2 hour
• Location : Osaka

Noh, Ancient Japanese Theatre Activities in Tokyo

Fukuoka Discovery, full day Fukuoka

• Duration : 8 hour

Please select your country on the list below:

• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Other countries

Meet Kyushu's Biggest Fans

We’d love to help with your Fukuoka and Kyushu travel plans. Join our guided group tours or travel privately with your family by car or train. Your itinerary will be planned by a Fukuoka local with a deep passion and extensive knowledge of all things Kyushu.

You can send us a message right now or read more on this page to discover what Kyushu travel options are available to you. To give you some ideas we’ve compiled a complete list of the best Fukuoka & Kyushu travel spots .

Choose your Travel Style

Family Trip Planning

Just you and your loved one or with family and friends. Rental car self-drive or explore by train. Leave all the planning to us.

Your preferred dates

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Cherry Blossom Package Tour

We know the best sakura blooming spots. Join this popular all-inclusive group tour and discover them for yourself. The memories will last a lifetime.

Autumn Colours Package Tour

Discover the best autumn leaves spots in Kyushu. Join our Kyushu fall foliage package tour and see them for yourself.

November 2024

Foodies Package Tour

For people who understand that intimacy with local cuisine is an essential part of travel. The best Kyushu dishes and exclusive culinary experiences.

Best of Kyushu Package Tour

Visit all the best places in Kyushu on one unforgettable tour. Volcanic adventures, scenic beauty, tastiest cuisine and much much more.

December 2024

Free to join: kyushu travel facebook group.

Be part of the Kyushu travel community. It’s completely free-of-charge. Share trip ideas and photos for Fukuoka and Kyushu (Japan). Ask questions if you’re planning a trip. If you’ve been to Kyushu before (or live here now) share your knowledge and experience so others can benefit. If you love Japan travel, this group is for you.

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Japan Yoga Retreat

Escape the crowded cities, immerse yourself in nature and discover the joy of yoga. Experience the serenity of a Buddhist temple and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Complete beginners or experienced yoga enthusiasts sincerely welcome.

Ancient carved Buddha on Kyushu Island Japan

Kyushu travel agent services.

Contact us with any Fukuoka or Kyushu request. We can help with one day Fukuoka group tours, cruise ship excursions, study tours, Nagasaki pilgrimage (Catholic history) and any other specialist activities or research. We also offer Japanese-English interpreting services, inbound land operations and buyer support (green tea, ceramics or other local products). Whatever your recreational or business requirements, we got you covered.

Your Kyushu Vacation Starts Here

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Best of Kyushu

From Volcanoes to Mangrove

Tour Highlights

brief explanation of what this Tour offers goes here.

Tour highlights

• Hot Spring Bath in Kurokawa Onsen
• Mount Aso Caldera & Volcano
• Takachiho Gorge and its legends
• Yakushima: 7,000 years old tree
• Amami Oshima: Hidden Treasure

What's Included

• Airport Pick-up and Orientation
• Destination Transfers
• Accommodations
• Meals, Guides and Activities as detailed
• Assistance from our Japan Office

Our Commitment

• Trips of Experience
• Personal Service
• Commitment to Excellence
• Responsible Travel

This once-in-a-lifetime tour combines the best of Kyushu giving you a chance to explore fully the island and its culture from Fukuoka down south to Amami Oshima. You will first rent a car and head to Kurokawa Onsen to relax in a ryokan (traditional inn) with a hot spring bath and a gourmet dinner. The next day you will face nature on its wildest side around Mt Aso volcano. Then it will be time to discover the legends of Takachiho Gorge before stopping in Kumamoto and witness the reconstruction of its famous castle. Later you will head to Kagoshima where stands Sakurajima (one of Japan’s most active volcanoes). After breakfast in Kagoshima, you will visit Chiran Samurai District. This town preserved houses and gardens that are about 250 years old. Next, you will head to Ibusuki for a black-sand spa.

After dropping off your rental car you will onboard for a 3 hours ferry ride and disembark on Yakushima Island. The subtropical island of Yakushima famous for its wildlife and cedar forests. The oldest trees are said to be over 7000 years old. Finally, the cherry on the cake: you will fly to Amami Oshima who will show you all its splendor!

This tour can be fully customized. The below itinerary is an example of a Classical custom tour. Price per person based on double occupancy for two travelers: Classical : from US$5,730 Superior : from US$9,450 Luxury : price upon request Request a Quote

Sample Itinerary

The tours featured throughout our website are intended to give you ideas for what's possible when you travel with us. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created individually by one of our specialists to match your tastes and budget.

Your airport pick up will meet you at Fukuoka International Airport (assuming your flight arrives after 8:00am and before 21:30) and will take to your hotel by public transportation. They will answer any of your questions and hand you your pocket internet device to use during your trip. Details directions will be included in your tour organizer send to you about 2 weeks before you depart for Japan. Once you are checked in and had time to rest, you will be free to enjoy dinner anywhere you’d like. Make sure to ask your airport pick-up to provide a few recommendations before parting ways. One idea would be to stay local and enjoy ‘yatai’ or street food in and around Canal City in Hakata.

Kurokawa Onsen

Today you will pick up your rental car and drive to Kurokawa Onsen (hot spring) where you will spend the night. During your drive you will be able to stop at a number of interesting locations. One of the best is Hita where you will be able to see its traditional shopping street, the Kuncho Sake Brewery Museum, and other sights. Make sure to arrive at your hot spring ryokan by 17:30 to check in and have one of the best meals you will have in Japan. After dinner and a soak in a hot spring, you can head out for an evening stroll of this amazingly quaint town.

Today you will have a full day to explore the caldera around Mt Aso. We recommend visiting Mt Aso which is an active volcano. Note, that the crater area is sometimes partially or completely closed off to visitors due to poisonous volcanic gases, bad weather or the risk of volcanic activity. You may also enjoy some fruit picking, horseback riding, visit by Aso Shrine, and other sites. Dinner will be served at your accommodation so please check-in by 17:30.

Takachiho Gorge

After breakfast you will drive to the Takachiho Gorge where the impressive waterfall contrasts with the basalt organ and in the background dense green foliage. The best way to admire the gorge is by renting a rowing boat and floating through the gorge. Takachiho is also a small town popular for its legends. Amaterasu (the Shinto Sun Goddess) is supposed to have hid herself in a cave because of her brother’s cruel pranks. Since then other gods and goddesses have been trying to lure her out. Another legend is that god Ninigi no Mikoto (grandson of Amaterasu) was sent from heaven to establish the lineage of Japanese emperors landed in Takachiho. Japanese people will often visit its spiritual spots such as Amano Iwato Shrine. Make sure to check-in by 17:30 as dinner is served early at your ryokan.

After breakfast you will drive to Kumamoto where Japan crushed its last great rebellion and where its imposing castle remains the top attraction of the city. Kumamoto Castle is one is one the largest in Japan and one of the most impregnable one, unfortunately it was damaged in the earthquake of April 2016 but it still worth the trip and it gives you a good chance to see how determined Japanese people are. Suizenji Garden is another beautiful site in Kumamoto. Built by the Hosokawa family during the 17th century this garden reproduces the 53 post stations of the Tokaido road between Edo/Tokyo and Kyoto. Between Takachiho Gorge and Kumamoto don’t miss the Tsujinkyo Bridge. If you like fruits picking, please let us know the area is notorious for strawberry farms. You will drop off your rental car in Kumamoto.

Today after breakfast in Kumamoto you will head to Kagoshima by car. Then you will take a ferry to Sakurajima to admire one of Japan’s most active volcanoes and the symbol of Kagoshima. In addition we recommend you to visit the Senganen Garden, especially for the views it provides of the Kagoshima Bay and Sakurajima. While in Kagoshima, don’t forget to taste some sweet potato cakes.

Today after breakfast you will drive to Chiran Samurai District. This town preserved houses and gardens that are about 250 years old. You will be pleasantly surprise to see this charming town without telephone poles! It’s so rare in Japan. Later you will head to Ibusuki for a black-sand spa. Of course sand baths are the main attraction in town but there is more to enjoy in Ibusuki such as the Satsuma Denshokan Museum famous for its local ceramics.

This morning you will first drop off your rental car. Then you’re going to take on a high speed boat bound for the subtropical island of Yakushima famous for its wildlife and cedar forests. The oldest trees are said to be over 7000 years old. This particular tree, called Jomonsugi, was discovered only about 70 years ago as the island was not well explored due to its thick vegetation. The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a lush green forest that inspired the Studio Ghibli for Princess Mononoke. The island receives a lot of rain each year which created such lush environment. The local joke that it rains 32 days a month! The high speed boat ride from Ibusuki to Yakushima Island takes about 75 minutes.

This morning a local private guide will pick you up at your hotel. Together you will explore the island hiking. Depending on your health condition and desires we will present you different courses. Let us know which one you like the most.

Amami Oshima

Today, via Kagoshima you will fly to the island of Amami Oshima. At your arrival you will pick up your rental car and start to explore this island which most tourists do not take time to visit making it one of the most isolated places in Japan. With subtropical climate and a small population this island offers great beaches, mangrove forests, delicious cuisine, museums, and the like. For romantics, you can visit the “Heart Rock of Amami” which is sure to make your relationship much stronger. While staying in Amami we invite you to taste the Keihan (the island’s most popular chicken rice dish).

Today we invite you to explore the northern part of Amami Oshima with its lighthouse and unique landscape around it where many Japanese Sago Palm grow. On the way, stop at Minatoya Amami chicken rice restaurant for its rustic but famous “Keihan” (Chicken soup). If you haven’t visited it the previous day, then stop at the Tanaka Isson Museum (a Paul Gauguin or Henri Rousseau in Japan) and later have a break on the beautiful beach near the museum and try to find the “Heart Rock of Amami”. Please note that the Heart Rock of Amami is best seen during low tides.

Amami Oshima islands offers a number of different activities including: -Rent a kayak and explore the mangrove of Amami. This can be done with or without guide. Amami Oshima has the second largest mangrove forest in Japan

-Kinsakubaru Primeval Forest

-Yuidake and Kochiyama peaks for the best views over the archipelago

-Oshima Tsumugi silk. Come and learn about Oshima Tsumugi produced from white silk thread. -Honohoshi Coast: Located about 20 minutes from Setouchi by car, this unique beach is characterized by its giant, water-smoothed pebbles that cover the shore between rugged cliffs on both sides.

The final day has come, today you will fly home with memories that you will keep for the rest of your life.

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Our Team Of Local Experts

Our team of Japan experts have all lived in Japan for years and know its the hidden treasures. Our team is here to answer all your questions and to build your tour just the way you want it.

Jeff Aasgaard

Jeff was born in a south suburb of Chicago named South Holland and lived in Japan for 14 years. He now lives in Commerce Township, Michigan with his wife Yoshimi, son Shota, and daughter Mina. He enjoys playing with his kids, volunteering with his daughter’s marching band, cycling and training and teaching Aikido.

Michiyo Kakiuchi

Michiyo was born in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Prefecture though currently lives in Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture. Her main passions in life is traveling all around the world and enjoying their cultures.

Izumi Yamauchi

Izumi has spent most of her life in the Kansai region, except for the 10 years that she enjoyed in the UK. Living abroad has made her appreciate her own culture and local beauty even more. She currently lives in Osaka with her family, including two cats and two dogs.

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Landscapes and Legends of Kyushu

11 Days from $5,890 / person

Adventure & Outdoors

Heritage & Culture

Nature & Landscapes

Itinerary Summary

Itinerary details.

International Arrival

Private transfer from Fukuoka Airport to Hotel (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Included activities

Highlights of Fukuoka Tour

Explore the landmarks of Fukuoka on this tour. Visit the famous eighth century Shinto shrine of Kushida-jinja that hosts the annual Yamakasa Festival. Stroll around the grounds admiring the beautiful floats used in the festival, the biggest Otafuku mask in Japan, and a well to pray for eternal youth. Try lifting the Trial Stone and learn about the beliefs behind it. Continue on to the beautiful green lung - Ohori Park, and stroll on the pathway around the central pond. View the ruins of the Fukuoka Castle and the lovely cherry blossoms in bloom during spring. If you wish, relish a local delicacy – the Hakata Ramen – for lunch. (Half Day; Times: 0900/1300 hrs; This activity includes public transport - local trains and buses. You will be picked up and dropped off at the hotel.)

Hotel options

Private Transfer from Hotel to Fukuoka Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Train from Hakata Fukuoka to Nagasaki (2 hr)

Transfer from Nagasaki Train Station to Hotel Transfer (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Nagasaki: A Colorful Fusion of Civilizations

Discover the unique ambience of this historic town that straddles both the orient and the occident with ease. As the only Japanese town that could interact with foreign merchants during the nation’s era of seclusion, it is home to old British mansions, churches and Chinese shrines. Visit the charming Glover Hill open-air museum, showcasing the residences of European merchants built during the second half of the 19th century. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and harbor stretched out below. Stop by the Chinese shrine of Koshi-byo dedicated to Confucius, built in the 1890s. Walkover to the city’s bustling Chinatown and sample the delicious steamed dumplings at the many street stalls. Your afternoon is dedicated to the Nagasaki Peace Park that commemorates the atomic bombing of Nagasaki in August, 1945. Discover how the city has recovered since that time, and visit the monuments and memorials leading up to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and the Hypocenter Park. (Full Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity & Public Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate).

Private transfer from Hotel to Nagasaki Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Train from Nagasaki to Kumamoto ( 2Hr)

Private transfer from Kumamoto Train Station - Hotel (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English; chauffeur will meet at Shinkansen Exit).

Kumamoto's Best

Begin your exploration of Kumamoto at Suizenji Garden that dates back to the 17th century. Stroll down the circular path with your guide to enjoy the beauty of this sprawling Japanese garden that was set up by the Hosokawa family. Delight in looking at miniature reproductions of the 53 post stations of the historically relevant Tokaido road, as well as Mount Fuji at this verdant park. Head over to the majestic 16th century Kumamoto Castle with its vast grounds and cluster of buildings. Despite being damaged by the massive earthquake of 2016, you can relish the complete castle experience at this spectacular edifice. Walk over to Josaien located next door to browse through a range of crafts and gastronomic delicacies. Browse through exhibits detailing the rich historical and cultural heritage of Kumamoto, before making your way back to the hotel. (Half Day; Time of Day: 0900 or 1400; Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity; Public Transport; Fitness Level: Easy)

Private transfer Hotel - Kumamoto Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English; chauffeur will meet at Shinkansen Exit).

Train from Kumamoto to Kagoshima-Chuo ( 0.47Hr)

Private transfer from Kagoshima Train Station - Kagoshima Hotel (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English; chauffeur will meet at Shinkansen Exit).

Kagoshima Uncovered

Explore the many offerings of the seaside city of Kagoshima! Start your day off with a visit to Sengan'en Garden, a Japanese-style landscape garden that will regale you with spectacular views of Sakurajima Island and Kagoshima Bay along the coast. Located north of downtown Kagoshima, this garden was built in 1658, during the Edo Period, by one of the most influential feudal clans of the time, the powerful Shimazu Clan. Explore the Islo Residence, located at the center of the garden, which became where the Shimazu Clan lived after the end of the feudal age. Admire the historical interiors of the rooms, which have been preserved in the same way they were used back in the 19th century. Wind up your walk around the garden with a sumptuous full-course meal of Satsuma (the former name of Kagoshima) specialties at the garden's restaurant. After lunch, take the ferry to the magnificent Sakurajima Island, where you'll find one of Japan's most active volcanoes as well as the symbol of Kagoshima. You'll notice that the volcano is always emanating smoke, and small-scale eruptions take place a few times a day. While it is forbidden to approach the crater, enjoy the thrilling experience of being so close to the majestic volcano. (Full day, Time of Day: Morning: 0930 hrs, Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity; Fitness Level: All Levels Accepted; Shared Transfers)

Private transfer from Kagoshima Hotel to Kagoshima Pier (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Ferry from Kagoshima to Yakushima (2.5 hrs)

Private transfer from Anbo Port to Yakushima Hotel (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Yakishima Forest Trails

Embark on a picturesque hike under the canopies of Yakushima's ancient trees. You will be picked up from your hotel by a local guide who will accompany you on a drive to the trailhead. Comfortable in a raised seat, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the passing scenery from the van. The Konohana hiking route you will be following is a great way to get to know the island; you will hike through the lush forest, admiring the swing bridges and the island's spectacular rivers and falls. Take your time to click some photos along the hike, and go on to savor lunch that will be provided. (Half Day, Time of Day: Morning at 0900 hrs, Duration: 4-6 hrs; Private Activity; Lunchbox included; Fitness Level: Moderate to Excellent, as this hike consists of some uneven paths and old wooden ladders. As the hike takes place in all weather conditions, you are advised to bring waterproof walking shoes and rain gear during the rainy season, warm layers in the winter, and a hat and sunscreen during the summer. Please note that transport to trailhead is provided by way of a van with raised seating, and a chauffeur and guide with hotel pick-up and drop-off.)

Private transfer from Yakushima Hotel to Anbo Port (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Ferry from Yakushima to Kagoshima (2.5 hrs)

Private transfer from Kagoshima Pier to Kagoshima Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Train from Kagoshima-Chuo to Shin-Osaka (4 Hr)

Train from Shin-Osaka to Osaka (5 mins)

Shared Transfer from Osaka Hotel to Kansai Airport

International Departure

On this personalized Japan vacation, discover the verdant landscapes and historic landmarks of Kyushu, the westernmost island in the country. Uncover the eclectic trading town of Fukuoka and in Nagasaki, explore the Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum. In Kumamoto, visit landmarks such as the 16th century Kumamoto Castle and sample the culinary gems of Josaien with your very own guide. In Kagoshima, take a personalized tour of the seaside city, including its spectacular gardens and the Sakurajima volcano! Next, experience a coastal haven on the island of Yakushima, where you can enjoy a customized forest hike under the shade of ancient trees. Finally, visit eclectic Osaka with its majestic temples and castle, and vibrant nightlife and food.

Do you want to explore historic Kyushu at your own pace? Get in touch with us and customize this itinerary to suit your style and preferences.

Price & Inclusions

From $5,890 / person

From $6,890 / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

• Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
• Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
• Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
• Your Trip Coordinator: a 24/7 point of contact supporting you during your trip
• Carbon emissions offsetting for your trip

Not Included

• Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
• Tips and personal expenses
• Visa and tourism fees
• Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
• International airfare

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TRAVEL | Where to Go

20 PLACES TO GO IN KYUSHU & OTHER PARTS OF SOUTHERN JAPAN

Article | |--> Dayna Hannah

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DISCOVER THESE 20 FANTASTIC PLACES TO VISIT IN KYUSHU AND SOUTHERN JAPAN!

If you're looking for things to do in Kyushu, don't forget to add destinations around other parts of southern Japan to your trip! Kyushu is Japan's biggest southernmost island, which means its summers are hot, but its winters are mild. It's home to some of Japan's most beautiful beaches, mountains, and the country's most active volcano—Mount Aso. Kyushu Island is near other spectacular destinations like Hiroshima and Tokushima. It's also within a reasonable distance from Osaka. That's why we've included some of our favorite places to go in Kyushu and other parts of southern Japan. The following locations are between Fukuoka and Kansai International Airports, making it easy to create your ideal itinerary!

1. HIMEJI CASTLE

Also known as the "White Heron," Himeji Castle is one of the best examples of classical Japanese engineering and architecture. Its imposing size, elegant appearance, and well-preserved complex attract travelers from all over the world. Himeji is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's "twelve original castles." Unlike most castles in Japan , Himeji's buildings were never destroyed, and are over 400-years-old. Himeji Castle is one of the most well-known places in Japan to see cherry blossoms and autumn leaves . During these seasons, the spectacular white walls become even more brilliant. The number of visitors to Himeji Castle significantly increases in spring and fall, as well as during summer holidays and Golden Week.

2. ITSUKUSHIMA SHRINE

The hallowed Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island is best known for its iconic torii gate. During high tide, water from the Seto Inland Sea surrounds the shrine and its torii, which makes them seem as though they're floating. Itsukushima Shrine has multiple buildings to explore, including a Noh theater stage that periodically holds performances throughout the year. Miyajima Island is also one of the most scenic places in Japan . From the peak of Mount Misen, you can take in a commanding view of the bay and the surrounding foliage. The short hike is particularly attractive when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

3. HIROSHIMA PEACE MEMORIAL MUSEUM

On August 6th, 1945, Allied forces dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima City. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Peace Park share the stories of the victims and survivors of this tragic day. The 120,000 square meter area stands at the epicenter of the explosion. The Peace Memorial Museum illustrates the history of Hiroshima, but its main focus is on the events surrounding August 6th. Some exhibits, like videos of survivors giving their first-hand accounts, are far from easy to experience. However, they serve as a reminder for us to not take peaceful times for granted.

Dejima is an artificial island in Nagasaki port where Portuguese missionaries lived in the early 1600s. However, in 1637, Japanese Christians rebelled against the Tokugawa Shogunate, leading the government to expel all Portuguese residents. They also ended trade relations with most Western countries, except for the Netherlands. Dutch residents moved to Dejima in 1641, and the island was the only place where direct trade between Japan and the Western world happened for centuries. Today, Dejima is a testament to this time, with reconstructed residences, warehouses, walls, and gates.

5. NAGASAKI PEACE PARK

Nagasaki Peace Park commemorates the atomic bombing of the city on August 9th, 1945. Two parks and a museum make up the complex, which memorializes the thousands of inhabitants that died that day. One of the most sobering sights is Hypocenter Park, where a black monolith marks precisely where the bomb fell. Here, you can still see debris from the explosion around its base. The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum is on a hill above Hypocenter Park, which works to inform the public about the horrors of war. Next to here is the memorial hall for victims that is mostly underground and uses water and light in its design. North of Hypocenter Park is the iconic Peace Statue and monuments given to Nagasaki by countries around the world.

6. TAKACHIHO GORGE

Kyushu is home to some of Japan's most picturesque national parks, and one of its hidden gems is the Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture. The Gokase River cuts through a narrow ravine of volcanic basalt that resembles a dragon's scales. You can rent a rowboat to explore the gorge on the river or walk on the trails above. Along your journey, you'll find the 17-meter high Minainotaki waterfall. During summer , spotlights illuminate the lush foliage and the waterfall from sundown to 10:00 pm.

7. SHIMANAMI KAIDO

The Shimanami Kaido is a toll road that connects Honshu and Shikoku via a series of bridges over small islands. Driving through it affords you a commanding view of the Seto Inland Sea, but that's not the only thing you can do here. The Shimanami Kaido also has walking and cycling paths. The bike route is 70 kilometers long but doesn't have any steep inclines. Intermediate cyclists can complete it in about a day. If you only want to ride a bike for part of the way, you can use the "regular rental system." It offers bicycles for tourists to ride for a small fee and has many terminals where you can catch a bus.

8. GLOVER GARDEN

At the end of Japan's period of isolationism, many Western residents settled in Nagasaki. The area where they used to live and work is now an open-air museum called Glover Garden . The main attraction is the Glover House that a Scottish merchant—Thomas Glover—built in the 1850s. He would later assist the revolutionaries that overthrew the Tokugawa Shogunate. Glover Garden is home to several Western-style mansions and buildings from this era. You can explore the well-preserved rooms and learn about the lifestyles of the wealthy elite. The garden also offers lovely views of Nagasaki City and its harbor.

9. BEPPU HELLS

The so-called " Hells " ( Jigoku in Japanese ) of Beppu are seven hot springs that are for viewing. Five are in Kannawa District, and two are in Shibaseki District. All are inside of easily-accessible centers rather than in natural surroundings. Each Hell looks markedly different from the last, and some spots offer foot baths and specialty snacks. The two most photogenic Hells are Umi Jigoku and Chinoike Jigoku. Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) is a hot spring with sky blue water. Its spacious garden includes another pond with lotus flowers that are strong enough to carry small children. Chinoike Jigoku (Bloody Pond Hell) is a striking fiery red.

10. SHIKOKU MURA

Shikoku Mura is an open-air museum that exhibits traditional buildings from the Edo and Meiji Periods. Among the structures are farmhouses, workshops, storehouses, and a kabuki theater that occasionally holds performances. One of its most noted attractions is a bridge made out of vines that is similar to the ones found in Iya Valley . What separates Shikoku Mura from other similar museums is that all of the exhibits are original artifacts from their time. You can touch and explore the same places and things that were used by people hundreds of years ago. Its surrounding natural forest adds to the atmosphere and makes you feel transported to a different time.

11. AWA ODORI FESTIVAL

According to local legend, the first Awa Odori Festival took place over 400 years ago to celebrate the opening of Tokushima Castle. From August 12th to the 15th, thousands of spectators and dancers flock to the city to watch the festivities. Although there are some events during the daytime, the main spectacle runs from 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm. In the evenings, groups of dancers perform in a parade on blocked off streets in downtown Tokushima. Some are amateurs that formed their team the night before, and some are professionals that rehearse all year. The style is a lively dance that grew out of Buddhist traditions. It plays on how a drunk or foolish person moves and includes live music and colorful period clothes.

12. OURA CATHOLIC CHURCH

Oura Catholic Church is a cathedral in Nagasaki and is the oldest standing church in Japan. A French missionary built it in 1864 to memorialize 26 martyrs that Japan's ruler Toyotomi Hideyoshi executed in 1597. Hideyoshi prohibited Christian missionaries during this time and ordered the act as a warning to the public. Today, the church is an attractive example of cathedral architecture and was the first Western-style building in Japan designated as a national treasure. Admission to the church includes entry to the adjacent museum, which chronicles the history of Christianity in Japan.

13. AMANO-IWATE SHRINE

Amano-Iwate Shrine is the site of one of the best-known Shinto legends. According to the myth, Amaterasu—the sun goddess—became so frustrated with her brother that she hid in a cave and shrouded the world in darkness. The other gods eventually lured her back out when one performed an amusing dance. The shrine stands on the opposite side of a river from the cave where Amaterasu hid. Although you can't enter the cave, a Shinto priest will lead you on a guided tour to an observation deck. Along the way, you'll see stacks of rocks that previous pilgrims built to memorialize their visit.

14. YOKAGURA PERFORMANCE

Yokagura reenacts the legend of Amaterasu with actors wearing traditional garb and masks. The full Yokagura performance consists of 33 episodes that take place on Saturday evenings between November and February . The show's venue changes every week, and locations include some private homes. If you aren't traveling to Kyushu during this time of year , you can catch an abridged version of Yokagura at Takachiho Shrine. The one-hour show consists of selected scenes with live musical accompaniment. Performances happen every night throughout the year from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

15. TAKASAKIYAMA MONKEY PARK

Mount Takasaki is a 628 meter-high peak that is home to around 1500 wild Japanese macaques. Takasakiyama Monkey Park is a reserve at the base of the mountain, so visitors can enjoy observing the monkeys interact with each other in their natural habitat. The park opened in the 1950s as a travel destination and to keep the monkeys away from the local farms. The monkeys live in two troops of around 700 to 800 individuals, which makes them some of the world's most populous groups. The two troops take turns coming down the mountain to the park. One arrives in the morning, and the other in the afternoon. Although they're accustomed to seeing humans, keep in mind that they're still wild animals. Please refrain from touching them or looking at them directly in the eye when you go.

16. KITSUKI SAMURAI DISTRICT

Kitsuki is a sleepy but notable city in northern Kyushu. It's home to Japan's smallest castle and a well-preserved samurai district . In most historical towns in Japan, samurai districts surround the castle. However, Kitsuki's layout is noticeably different because its samurai district borders the downtown area. Some of the samurai houses are open to the public to enter. The best-surviving buildings are the Ohara and Nomi Residences. Inside, you'll see tatami-matted rooms, traditional Japanese gardens, and artifacts related to the everyday lives of old Japan's military elite .

17. RITSURIN KOEN PARK

The spacious Ritsurin Koen Park is one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens . Local feudal lords built the park in the early Edo Period with multiple ponds, tree groves, and pavilions. Those familiar with Ritsurin Koen often argue that it deserves a spot on Japan's list of "Great Gardens," which includes Kanazawa's Kenrokuen , Mito's Kairakuen , and Okayama's Korakuen . There are several facilities inside the park, including a folk museum and tea houses where you can take a break with refreshments. You can also ride traditional Japanese rowboats on the ponds with a guide. Ritsurin Koen Park is particularly striking during the fall when the autumn leaves change colors and when its seasonal flowers —like cherry blossoms—bloom.

18. KURASHIKI CANAL AREA

Kurashiki is a quaint city located in Okayama Prefecture. Its name roughly translates to the "town of storehouses," which is evident from its canal area. During the Edo Period, Kurashiki was an essential center of distribution for rice in Japan, and the old storehouses still stand in the Bikan Historical District . You can explore the storehouse area either on foot or on a boat tour. Gondola drivers wear traditional clothes and hats and explain the town's history. The storehouse fronts still look the same as they did hundreds of years ago, but no longer hold rice. Most are converted boutiques, cafes, and museums.

19. MIFUNEYAMA RAKUEN

Spanning 150,000 square meters, or approximately 10 Tokyo Domes, Mifuneyama Rakuen is one of Kyushu's must-go locations. Mount Mifune famously resembles the shape of a large ship, and its surrounding park offers visitors fabulous views all year round. In winter , the otherwise stark park comes alive during the illumination festivals at night. From February to mid-May , thousands of plum trees bloom around the whole area. Cherry blossoms and multi-colored azaleas add a splash of color in March and April . In autumn , the maples turn stunning shades of red, gold, and orange.

20. KOSANJI TEMPLE

If you're only traveling in southern Japan, you might feel put out by the fact that you'll miss the north's temples and shrines . However, at Kosanji Temple , you can see some of the structures that make those places so impactful. Kosanji's buildings and decorations replicate some of the country's most popular spiritual sites. Although Kosanji is a collage of different architectural styles and colors, they come together as a coherent complex. Some of its replicas include Nikko Toshogu's Yomeimon Gate and Byodoin's Phoenix Hall. Another highlight of Kosanji is the large walking area above the temple, where you'll find abstract structures and a restaurant made from Italian marble.

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Kyushu Starts Here

I’ve had a Kyushu travel guide on this site for a long time—but I haven’t really been satisfied with it, if I’m perfectly honest. Some parts of it were downright superficial, and reflected the fact that I’ve been discovering the island piecemeal over the past several years, rather than having done a deep dive.

This changed a few years ago, of course: In November 2019, I embarked upon a truly extensive Kyushu trip, which saw me visit each of the island’s prefectures. Some destinations were completely new to me, while I simply hadn’t seen others in a while. In both cases, the impact upon my understanding of Kyushu was extraordinary. And I’ve since been back many times.

Some of you have arrived on this page directly from a search engine, while others might have stumbled upon one of my stream-of-consciousness style Kyushu travel blog posts and come in that way. In either case, I’m delighted you’re here—and within a few paragraphs, I’m pretty sure you will be, too.

Practical Matters

When to visit kyushu.

Notice all the perfectly blue skies in this pictures throughout this Kyushu guide ? These are largely due to the fact that I traveled to Kyushu most recently during the month of November which, along with May, is one of my favorite months to visit Japan in general. While it’s true that you’ll need to come during the latter part of the month if you wanted to Kyushu’s autumn colors (or in late March if you want to see the sakura ), these two “shoulder” months (which are also, importantly, typhoon-free) are the best time to visit Kyushu, as far as I’m concerned.

Where to Stay in Kyushu

In general, the best hotels in Kyushu are slightly inferior to the ones you find in major destinations on Honshu, though they’re not as mediocre (in my opinion) as places to stay in Hokkaido and Shikoku. City hotels like Tokyu Stay Hakata and Hotel Forza Nagasaki , for example, are more or less up to Tokyo standards. On the other hand, I do find accommodations in secondary destinations to be lacking, be it guest houses at the foot of Mt. Aso, or all but a few onsen-ryokan properties in Beppu (such as the sea-facing Shiosai no Yado ) are disappointing.

How to Get Around in Kyushu

I’ll be referencing various modes of transport throughout this Kyushu travel guide, but in general I’d say you should expect a mix. The Shinkansen , for example, only runs between Fukuoka (Hakata), Kumamoto and Kagoshima, which means that for travel to cities like Nagasaki, Beppu and Miyzaki, you’ll need to avail ordinary express trains; some destinations (such as Mt. Aso) are currently only accessible by bus, on account of the 2016 earthquake. Additionally, although I generally have very mixed feelings about renting a car in Japan , in many cases this is the best way to explore secondary Kyushu destinations.

Money, Costs and Communication

Your Kyushu visit is unlikely to differ much from traveling elsewhere in Japan when it comes to money or costs: Most travelers will spend around ¥10,000-25,000 per day (this is about $90-230, as of publication time), and a surprising amount of that will be in cash, due to Japan’s resistance to cashless payments as compared to other countries. Kyushu has rapidly improved its Wi-Fi infrastructure alongside the rest of Japan; unlimited data SIMs are available for purchase at Fukuoka Airport, assuming you aren’t arriving at Haneda or Narita and picking one up there . Speaking Japanese helps when travel in Kyushu, but isn’t necessary.

Kyushu vs. Shikoku

The good news? I’ve written a post that compares and contrasts Shikoku vs. Kyushu (which, I’m happy to say, does not trash talk either of these islands, both amazing in their own ways). The better news: I’ll summarize its conclusion for you here. Simply put, Kyushu and Shikoku offer similar experiences (interesting medium-to-large sized cities and unique, easy-to-access natural experiences), with Kyushu being larger (and therefore having more potential choices for travelers) and Shikoku being smaller and having significantly fewer tourists.

Where to Go in Kyushu

Most Kyushu travel starts in Fukuoka , especially if this is where you’re arriving in Japan. I love this city more every time I visit it, from the temples and shrines of the historical Gion district just west of Hakata Station , to the panoramic views of the city from Atago-jinja shrine, which rises above the coast, to the famous Fukuoka Yatai food stalls. I also enjoy taking day trips from Fukouka, be they ones more or less in the city like Nanzo-in ‘s reclining Buddha or the famous Dazaifu Tenman-gu shrine.

BONUS: Happen to be in the Fukuoka area in late April or early May? If you don’t mind renting a car (and rolling the dice on being there for “full bloom,” enter a world of pink and purple at Kawachi Wisteria Garden , a gorgeous park located on a hillside north of Kokura city.

Nagasaki is one of the best places to visit in Kyushu—and not just because of World War II-era tourism sites, even if I find the area around Nagasaki Ground Zero to be very moving indeed. From the picturesque Oura Cathedral and Glover Garden in the southern part of the city, to the stunning panorama Mt. Inasa offers, Nagasaki is one of the most beautiful and eclectic cities in all of Japan—and not just Kyushu. Nagasaki also offers the opportunity to take several fascinating day trips, including to gorgeous Yutoku Inari Shrine and historical Yoshinogari Park , which re-creates like if the Yayoi era of ancient Japan.

TIP: If you have a long time in Japan, or are just extra curious about Nagasaki, I highly recommend taking an excursion to the prefecture’s offshore islands. Pictured above, these include Ikishima , Tsushima and the Goto archipelago.

Kumamoto and Mt. Aso

I’ll be honest: Before my latest trip, Kumamoto was not one of my favorite Kyushu destinations. I need to tell another truth, however, which is that I didn’t explore the city at the depth it deserves. While it’s difficult to deny the fact that Kumamoto Castle ‘s lingering damage is disappointing, I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out how amazing other destinations in the city are, from lush Suizenji Park to Honmyo-ji , a temple above which a towering park offers a stunning view of the city. Kumamoto is also the nearest major city to Mt. Aso , which is amazing either as a day trip to Mt. Aso from Kumamoto , an overnight excursion.

Oita and Beppu Onsen

In the previous incarnation of my Kyushu travel guide, I focused largely on the Beppu Onsen hot springs you can actually swim in. During my latest trip, however, I got a chance to explore the Seven Hells of Beppu , with my favorites being Chinoike Jigoku (the “blood” hell) and Umi Jigoku (the “sea” hell). Another awesome part of my latest trip to Oita prefecture was renting a car and driving northward to the Kunisaki Peninsula , where destinations like the castle town of Kitsuki , Futago-ji temple deep in the forest and the vibrant Usa Jingu shrine surprised and delighted me.

Miyazaki and Takachiho Gorge

If you can time it right, the Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki prefecture (which is not located particularly close to Miyazaki City , I should warn you— this day trip to Takachiho from Kumamoto illustrates that) is a great place to see Kyushu autumn colors. Even if you can’t, of course, this underrated part of southeastern Kyushu is very much worth a visit, if only because of Udo Shrine . Dedicated to Japan’s first emperor Jimmu, who launched his first military expedition from nearby Hyuga , it’s one of the best-kept secrets in all of Japan, not to mention one of the most gorgeous spots you can visit.

Kagoshima, the Satsuma Peninsula and Yakushima Island

I didn’t intend to take a Kyushu road trip when I planned my November travel, but I ended up renting five separate cars. One of my favorite reasons for doing this was my day trip to the Satsuma Peninsula from Kagoshima . Spots like Chiran Samurai Village , the matcha fields of Ei , Cape Nagasakibana and the “sand bath” of Ibusuki provided the perfect foil to attractions within the city, from Sengan-en garden, to Sakurajima volcano, to Kagoshima’s answer to Fukuoka’s Yatai .

TIP: Have some extra time and want to take an excursion to somewhere absolutely otherworldly? Visit Yakushima Island , which is only two hours from Kagoshima by jetfoil ferry, but whose ancient cedars make it feel like somewhere else entirely!

Kyushu’s (and, arguably, Japan’s) least-loved prefecture, Saga is a place that’s easy to miss, even though you’re likely to pass through it several times en route from one place to another during your Kyushu trip. Some of Saga’s top destinations are actually day trips from elsewhere in Japan, be that Karatsu Castle (from Fukuoka) or the Yoshinogari historical site and Yutoku Inari Shrine , which are accessible from Nagasaki. More purpose-driven travelers will appreciate the pottery town of Arita and the Oura Rice Terraces , which in my opinion are the most impressive in all of Japan.

How Long Should You Spend in Kyushu?

Regardless of why you decide to travel Kyushu or where you plan to go during your trip, I would generally say you should aim to spend as long in Kyushu as possible—things (and trains!) move slower here than they do in Honshu, which means you can’t fit quite as much into such a short amount of time as you might do elsewhere in Japan. In general, I’d say that one week in Kyushu or 2 weeks in Kyushu is a “Goldilocks” length of trip, which will afford you the opportunities to blend city experiences, natural adventures and maybe even a couple of wild cards.

Another factor affecting how many days in Kyushu, of course, is what your larger trip to Japan will look like. If, for example, you take a dedicated Kyushu trip like I recently did, you can afford to spend longer here. On the other hand, if Kyushu is one component of a more comprehensive Japan trip (I’m thinking two weeks in Japan , or perhaps even one month in Japan ), then a few days or a week is likely the longest amount of time you’ll be able to spend in Kyushu.

Is Kyushu Worth Visiting?

This one is easy, though there is some nuance I’ll speak too. On one hand, I would not have written a Kyushu travel guide (and traveled to the island so many times, including on my recent deep dive) if I didn’t feel Kyushu was worth visiting. On the other hand, there are a lot of misconceptions about this island, and one overarching truth: Most people simply don’t know a thing about Kyushu, apart from the existence of cities like Fukuoka and Nagasaki and maybe, the fake spa-musement park in Beppu .

Obviously, my hope is that if you’ve read my guide this far, you’ll be so excited about things to do in Kyushu at this point that literally nothing will be able to keep you off the island. Absent this, I’m not sure what I can say to convince you, other than to re-affirm my love for this island, and the fact that every time I’ve traveled here (I’m at three or four trips now, if I’m not mistaken) I crave a future opportunity to delve even deeper into it.

Other FAQ About Travel to Kyushu

When should i go to kyushu.

I love to go to Kyushu (which is already less crowded than hot spots like Tokyo or Kyoto, even in busy times) during the “shoulder” months like May and October. The good news is that no matter when you travel, much of the advice I present in this Kyushu travel blog will be relevant.

What is famous in Kyushu?

Kyushu is famous for the ramen of Hakata in Fukuoka, the atomic-bomb related sites in Nagasaki, Kumamoto Castle and the onsen hot springs of Beppu. To start with, anyway—as you’ve seen throughout this Kyushu travel guide, Kyushu is a land of treasures.

What is the climate of Kyushu?

Kyushu’s climate is defined by a mild, sunny winter, a hot and very rainy summer, and a spring and summer season that can go either way. Regardless of when you visit, you’ll want to make sure you curate things to do in Kyushu you can enjoy irrespective of the weather.

The Bottom Line

The extent to which you enjoy your Kyushu travel correlates directly with how deeply you can explore the island, although this isn’t necessarily tied to specific length of time. Ideally, you’ll be able to travel for at least a week in Kyushu, pairing urban experiences in large cities like Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto and Kagoshima with nature (Mt. Aso or Yakushima island), culture (hot springs in Beppu or the Udo Shrine in Miyazaki) or something else entirely. Need personalized help planning your Kyushu adventure? Commission a custom Japan itinerary today!

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Perfect 10 Day Itinerary For Your Kyushu Trip

Kyushu is a natural paradise that offers many historic treasures, modern cities, and natural beauty. The southernmost of the main islands of Japan is known for its rich rugged landscape, volcanic scenery, vibrant cities, stunning hikes, and delicious ramen. Kyushu translates as nine provinces but is surprisingly formed by seven prefectures. The land of volcanoes also has a large number of high-quality (natural) hot springs dotted all over the island and Kyushu is often dubbed onsen island. Despite all of its beauty, Kyushu is an underrated paradise that isn’t frequently included on the itinerary by (international) tourists. All the more reason to travel to Kyushu! Here we will provide you with a ready-made itinerary to see some of the best places to visit in Kyushu . The itinerary is somewhat fast-paced so that you can cover the most popular spots and get to all the iconic places in 10 days. We also included some optional day trips for you to consider. As this schedule serves as an inspiration for your perfect trip to Kyushu, you can choose to leave out places or change the timing.

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, day 4: kumamoto – kagoshima , day 5: kagoshima – yakushima , day 6: yakushima – kagoshima, day 7: kagoshima – kirishima , day 8: kirishima – takachiho, day 9: takachiho – mount aso, day 9:  kurokawa – yufuin, tour packages, blogs you might also enjoy.

Kyushu has a comfortable climate all year round, but we recommend traveling in either spring or autumn. The winter is mild so you won’t see any snow, but it is still fairly cold at that time of the year. Summers in Kyushu are hot and humid and summer sees more rain than other regions in Japan. 

Spring is definitely the most popular season to travel to Kyushu with sunny days and comfortable temperatures. The weather is perfect for all the outdoor activities and hiking that Kyushu is known for. It is also very popular at this time due to the cherry blossoms and flowers that are in full swing at this time of year.

Most travelers will access Kyushu via Fukuoka , riding Japan’s famous shinkansen or boarding a flight to the well-connected airport of Fukuoka. But the island is home to a number of airports for example in Kagoshima , Nagasaki and Oita . 

Kyushu has an extensive network of trains and buses within the major cities, connecting the seven prefectures on the island of Kyushu. The region is popular for its scenic trains such as the Yufuin no Mori and Kawasemi Yamasemi , along the coastline and crossing the mountainscape.  The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is also valid on most JR trains.

However, especially the more distant areas are easier to reach by car. With many breathtaking country roads, driving is the ideal way to explore Kyushu. Popular routes for a scenic road trip include the Nichinan coast road in Miyazaki, the Trans Kyushu Route, and the Aso Panorama Line in Kumamoto. We recommend exploring Kyushu by car as it will give you much more freedom and flexibility. You can find car rental agencies at airports and major stations. 

The JR Kyushu Rail Pass is available for internationals and includes travel in the chosen area on the following JR trains:

• Local trains
• Limited express trains
• Shinkansen *Shinkansen between Kokura and Fukuoka, subways, buses or private railways are not applicable.

Kyushu’s largest and most vibrant city is Fukuoka ( 福岡 ), a great place to start your trip. The old castle town is located along Hakata Bay , which made it a favorable base for international trade. The city was first known as Hakata, but was renamed Fukuoka in the 17th century. We suggest you use this first day to discover the port city, Fukuoka is home to a number of top-notch shopping facilities and historically important temples and shrines such as Kushida-jinja Shrine and the Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine . Fukuoka’s castle was destroyed completely after the Meiji Restoration as it was seen as an unwanted symbol of the past, but the ruins and the bordering Maizuru Park are a very popular sakura viewing spot in Fukuoka . You cannot leave Fukuoka without trying the famous Hakata Ramen from one of the food stalls called yatai .

▼ And don’t miss out on the final Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka in November! Book your tickets by clicking the Link below and get a professional guide that will give you essential background information to enjoy the experience to the fullest .

▼ Fukuoka 1-Day Highlight Private Walking Tour (7 Hours) Book a guided private walking tour in Fukuoka to explore the highlights of Fukuoka including Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine, Kushida Shrine, and other unique spots that only locals know!

Both the drive and the train ride from Fukuoka to Nagasaki (長崎) will take you about 2 hours when traveling directly. You might want to take a detour and make some stops along the road in Saga prefecture , a small prefecture famous for Japanese traditional ceramics. Especially Arita and Imari are famous pottery villages . Start the day (very) early and catch the sunrise at Hamanoura Rice Terraces Lookout (浜野浦の棚田展望台) or enjoy the onsen facilities in Takeo Onsen (武雄温泉), a hot spring resort with over 1,300 years of history. 

Nagasaki is widely known for two events in history ; it was the location of the second atomic bomb dropping and Nagasaki was the most important port where a restricted number of foreign traders were allowed during the period of isolation between the 17th and 19th centuries, known as the Sakoku period.

Depending upon the time of your arrival we recommend heading up to Mount Inasa for a spectacular view over Nagasaki. Nagasaki has a lot to offer, and the impressive night scenery that can be seen from Mount Inasa Observatory is one of them. When visiting Nagasaki, make sure to spend some time at the Nagasaki Peace Park where the victims of the second atomic bomb are commemorated. On August 9, 1945, Nagasaki became the second city that was destroyed by an atomic bomb, after Hiroshima. Another interesting place to visit in Nagasaki is Clover Garden , an open-air museum that showcases several beautiful mansions of the foreigners who lived in the city after the period of isolation. Or head to Dejima (出島), an artificial island that used to be Japan’s window to the world during that same period of isolation. 

Right off Nagasaki’s coast, the abandoned island of Gunkanjima (軍艦島) makes for an interesting half-day trip. The small island served as an important coal mine until 1974 and can now be visited with a sightseeing tour.  

▶ Make sure to book a tour to enter the Gunkanjima beforehand

On the third day make your way from Nagasaki to Shimabara (島原), this should take about 1.5-2 hrs by car or train. Shimabara Peninsula (島原半島) is a popular hot spring and hiking destination, with Mount Unzen (雲仙岳) and Unzen Onsen (雲仙温泉) at the center. Mount Unzen is one of Japan’s most active volcanoes and has erupted several times in the last centuries. Its most recent eruption was in 1991 when 43 people were killed. Near the top of Mount Unzen, Unzen Onsen is a hot spring resort surrounded by several hot spring fields. 

From Shimabara Port, catch the ferry to Kumamoto Port . From November to March, seagull feeding is available on the 60-minute ferry ride. Cars are allowed on board, but it is best to make a reservation (which can be made up to one month in advance). 

Kumamoto (熊本) is the capital city of the namesake prefecture and is rich in history, with sites such as Kumamoto Castle , built over 400 years ago and considered one of the three most magnificent castles in Japan . Kumamoto is highly praised by nature lovers, blessed with breathtaking scenery and many hot springs . It is also called the land of water with hot spring water flowing from more than 1,000 locations across the prefecture.

Spend the morning exploring some more of Kumamoto, visit for example the Suizenji Garden , a beautiful serene Japanese garden. For lunch, have some Kumamoto Ramen , this local variant of the famous Japanese comfort food is characterized by mild tonkotsu soup , made rich in flavor with the addition of chicken bones mixed with garlic oil or chips.

Around midday make your way to Kagoshima (鹿児島), also known as the Naples of Japan for its bayside location and towering active stratovolcano Sakurajima ( 桜島 ). Stay overnight in Kagoshima for example at the Shiroyama Mountain Hotel , located on top of the hill and with hot spring baths overlooking Sakurajima volcano and the sea.

This guided tour will help you to explore all the highlights of Kyushu’s Kagoshima in a day tour , it’s highly recommended if you have a limited time or want to discover the city with a local guide.

In the morning, board the ferry from Kagoshima to Yakushima (屋久島), a true nature lover’s paradise that served as an inspiration for Ghibli’s famous Princess Mononoke’s film . The small island of Yakushima is located about 60 km off the coast of Kagoshima and is famous for its towering mountains, its ancient cedar forest – Jomonsugi (縄文杉) is a giant  cedar tree  which is estimated to be 2000 to 7200 years old – and many well-marked hiking options. Much of the island is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Enter the land of Princess Mononoke and pick one of the several hiking routes of Yakushima. We recommend visiting the Shiratani Unsuikyo (白谷雲水峡 ) where you have the option of several trails ranging from a 1 hr to a 6hr walk. 

The island is quite small and it’s possible to access all of Yakushima’s main sights by bus, though service is infrequent. The best way to explore Yakushima at your own pace is by car. Cars can be rented on the island, and it is also possible to bring your car from Kagoshima with the car ferry . 

Recommended tour: Yakusugi Cedar Forest Walking Tour on Yakushima Island

Spent the entire day exploring the island before taking back the ferry to Kagoshima. Admire mesmerizing waterfalls like Okonotaki , Senpiro, and Janokuchi , or the historical Yaku Shrine . One of the highlights of the island is the natural hot spring bathing pools formed from ocean rocks along the coast of the Sea of Japan. Bear in mind that the last ferry to Kagoshima departs from Yakushima at 4pm.

After waking up in Kagoshima the next morning, explore the city a bit more and transfer to Kirishima (霧島). The area of Kirishima consists of volcanic mountains, highlands, hot springs and volcanic lakes and it was the first to be designated as a national park in Japan in 1934. The absolutely breathtaking scenery is a feast for the eyes and the mountains offer a wide range of hiking courses suitable for both beginners and more experienced hikers. Nearby Ebino Kogen (えびの高原) and Kirishima Onsen (霧島温泉) are the two best hot spring towns in the Kirishima area. We recommend staying overnight in Kirishima Onsen, one of Japan’s best hot spring resorts with high-quality sulfuric water. You can also opt for staying in Ebino Kogen, an epic place to see the autumn colored leaves and the starting point of several hiking trails. Kirishima Mountain is also an important site in Japanese mythology and home to a large beautiful shrine; Kirishima Shrine is an impressive ancient shrine said to be built in the 6th century!

The trip from Kirishima to Takachiho (高千穂) takes about 3~3.5 hrs by car without any stops. Depending on your preference you can either do some more hiking in Kirishima or you can also decide to take a slightly longer route and drive along the coastline of Miyazaki (宮崎市), a beautiful scenic drive. In the south, the Nichinan Coastline is known as one of Japan’s best road trips, with beaches, great surfing spots and the stone giants of Sun Messe Nichinan along the way. 

In northern Miyazaki you’ll find one of Japan’s most beautiful nature spots : Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡). The stunning V-shaped gorge was formed from lava from Mount Aso  (阿蘇山) which over time eroded to create 80-100m high volcanic cliffs. This place has appeared in Japanese mythology and is known as a power spot filled with spiritual energy. The gorge can be enjoyed in two ways; from above (the cliffs) and below while rowing down the river. Follow the trail that leads you to the observatory deck in front of the Manai Waterfalls . 

Overnight in Takachiho and see a traditional Japanese dance performance, held every evening at 8pm on the grounds of Takachiho shrine.  

Wake up early and watch a magnificent sunrise at the nearby mountain peak called Kunimigaoka (国見ヶ丘), known for Japan’s famous unkai or sea of clouds . After one of the best sunrise views over the rice fields and Takachiho Valley, continue north and make your way to Mount Aso . But before visiting Japan’s largest active volcano, take a small detour and make a stop at the picturesque Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine . The path leading up to the shrine is lined with numerous stone lanterns, and it is worth the trip, even if you’re not a fan of shrines. The shrine is famous for being the setting of a popular anime and manga comic Hotarubi no Mori e (Into the Forest of Fireflies).

Mount Aso is one of the largest calderas in the entire world, spanning 17 kilometers from east to west and 25 kilometers from south to north with a total area of 350 square kilometers. Standing at 1592 meters above sea level and boasting five soaring peaks, Mount Aso is a must-visit for anyone visiting Kyushu. Hiking the Mount Aso region is one of the most incredible adventures you can have in Japan! It is possible to drive to the top of Mount Nakadake (中岳), or you walk in about 30 minutes to the summit. Alternatively, you can also take the ropeway around Mt. Aso and ride the plains created by the magma below the mountain. From the parking or the ropeway station, there are a number of hiking trails to explore Mount Aso . Always check the current status of the area before you go as the volcano is still active and often closed. To find out the current restrictions in place you check the official website . 

After taking in the breathtaking volcanic scenery of Mount Aso, make your way to Kurokawa Onsen (黒川温泉), a secluded onsen town up in the Aso mountain range. Kurokawa Onsen has managed to maintain the traditional atmosphere with ryokan and public bathhouses dominating the townscape. The charming town is home to a number of ryokan baths and public baths and visitors can purchase a tegata for ¥1,300 that offers access to any three of the participating onsen. Stroll around in your yukata and wooden sandals and relax after a long day of exploration.

After Kurokawa Onsen the next destination on the list is Yufuin (由布院), a popular onsen resort town in Oita Prefecture . You have two options of getting there by car and we recommend taking the road passing the Kuji Mountain (九重山) range along the way. The mountains are located along the scenic drive Yamanami Highway. 

The natural hot springs of Yufuin are a must-try of course and there are several public baths that can be used by visitors like Tsuka no Ma, Baien and Musoen . Some of the baths are gender separated whereas others are mixed. Yufuin is located on a flat river basin nestled in a mountainous valley, with scenic views of Mount Yufu , a volcano that stands 1.83 meters tall, from nearly every place in town. Along the main street, you will find many souvenir shops, cafes and small art museums, creating a lively atmosphere. Most of the public baths and ryokan are scattered around the town and many visitors come to visit for just the day. Staying overnight will offer you the opportunity to enjoy the natural hot spring and the second no other place views. Because there are many mountains surrounding Yufuin, there are also plenty of hiking trails with easy access from the town. For example, this day trip hiking to the summit of Mount Yufu , takes about 4-5 hours to complete. On a clear day, the views are guaranteed jaw-dropping. 

Another highlight nearby is Lake Kinrin at the base of Mt. Yufu. The small lake is located at the end of the main walking route of Yufuin. There is a small shrine located on the southern shore and there are charming little cafes and shops selling local specialties. 

We recommend staying at the traditional ryokan, Yufuin Iyotomi . The ryokan has indoor cypress baths and a large outdoor bath (rotenburo). 

Day 10: Beppu – Oita

Situated at the heart of Oita Prefecture , Beppu (別府) is one of Japan’s most popular hot spring resorts. The area produces the greatest amount of thermal water from natural hot springs in the world. You can’t miss it, there is steam rising into the air everywhere in Beppu. There is a wide range of baths to be enjoyed, from normal hot water baths to mud baths, sand baths and steam baths, Beppu offers it all. 

In addition, the Hells of Beppu (地獄, jigoku) are a must-visit when you’re in the area. The hells of Beppu are seven incredible hot springs created by volcanic activity more than 30,000 years ago. These hot springs are for viewing rather than bathing as they are far too hot; the temperature reaches up to 100 degrees Celsius. The most beautiful hell is Umi Jigoku , or Sea Hell, a pond of boiling milky blue water, shrouded in steam. The grounds also feature a large garden and a few smaller, orange-colored hells. Chinoike Jigoku or Blood Pond Hell is another spectacular hell with bright red water, thanks to the high levels of iron and magnesium in the water.

Onbara (乙原の滝) is a hidden gem near Beppu where you can enjoy a short trek passing the epic waterfall of Onbara Falls. There are several beautiful waterfalls in the area around Beppu, but Onbara Falls is the most beautiful and accessible. There is a short, well-marked trail with a dirt/rock path leading you up to the falls. Start your day with a beautiful little walk, the trail is only about a 2km return and refresh at one of the many natural hot springs after.

We recommend you also visit the Beppu Sand Bath (別府海浜砂湯) where you don’t bathe in hot water, but in hot sand instead! Being buried in the hot volcanic sand is a healthy and relaxing experience.

From Beppu you have the option of flying to your next destination using Oita Airport (大分空港). If you are continuing tour trip from Fukuoka, we highly recommend taking the Yufuin no More train to Fukuoka . The sightseeing train is a popular train ride to take and gives you some amazing views of both prefectures on the way.

With this 10 day itinerary, you will visit many of the highlights of Kyushu. We recommend you to self-drive, as public transportation is limited especially in the more rural parts including Kirishima and Takachiho Gorge. A car offers you the freedom to visit the tourist hotspots of Kyushu in a short amount of time. This ready-to-use Kyushu itinerary serves as an example of the ultimate Kyushu trip, of course, you can extend this itinerary and stay longer at some places or add other places from your wishlist. 

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Happy traveling!

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The southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, at the western end of the Seto Inland Sea lies Kyushu, the principal gateway to Japan for culture and trade from overseas since the earliest of times. Perhaps because of this foreign influence, from pre-historic continental cultures through the Chinese and Korean to the Portuguese, Dutch and English, it retains a different feel to the rest of Japan. Relics of these influences include ancient tumuli burial mounds, Korean-style pottery, Portuguese and Dutch trading posts, crypto-Christian churches and other-worldly festivals that are quite unlike any others found in Japan. Much to the consternation of Uji near Kyoto, Kyushu has a good claim on having the first tea fields in Japan, which were grown from seed brought from China by Eisai (1141-1215), a Buddhist monk. Kyushu is also home to one of the oldest centres of religion on the Kunisaki Peninsula, where Rokugomanzan , a 1,300 year-old Shinto-Buddhist group, still exists. ‘Elsewhere, Amaterasu Okami, the Sun Goddess and progenitor of the Japanese Imperial line, hid in Takachiho and took the sunlight with her in the earliest mythological days of Japan.

Kyushu’s principal cities - Fukuoka, Nagasaki and Kita-Kyushu - are in the north while the rest of the island, particularly the centre, is sparsely populated. This leaves much of Kyushu relatively untouched but only easily explored by vehicle. ‘Here are found myriad onsen hot spring villages and towns; verdant forests; spectacular views across Aso, one of the world’s largest calderas; landscapes akin to those on the moon on the many active volcanoes; and Sakurajima, which erupts so regularly that the locals seem barely to give it a second thought.

Kyushu also encompasses many islands, including the Amakusa and the sub-tropical Amami-Oshima chains. Just north of the latter lies Yakushima, one of the wettest places on earth, known for its ancient giant cedar trees, and Tanegashima, where Japan’s space centre is located. Further south lie the Okinawa, or Ryukyu, Islands.

With its southern aspect, it is unsurprising that many Japanese from elsewhere mistakenly believe Kyushu to have a charmed, warm Pacific climate. While in the south and west of the island this reality does largely conform to commonly held perceptions, the centre and north can become cold in winter with heavy snowfalls; there are even some ski areas. Unlike the north of Japan, however, the season is short, the snow does not remain too long and the rest of the year is generally comfortably warm.

Finally, Kyushu boasts perhaps the most attractive trains in the whole of Japan. Not only they are clean and run on time, as with practically all the nation's railways; they also comprise the most interestingly designed rolling stock found anywhere, including the Sonic Express; Kyushu Shinkansen; the ultra-luxurious Nanatsuboshi Seven-Star and its smaller sibling, the glorious Aru Ressha Sweets & Gourmet Train.

Kunisaki and Yufuin Walk

5 days | March - June & September - December Activity Level : 2

Kunisaki Retreat

7 days | Year-round Activity Level : 1

Kunisaki Trek

10 days | March - June & September - November Activity Level : 4

Oita Hot Spring Trail

6 days | Year-round Activity Level : 2

Onsen Gastronomy: Oita & Kumamoto

5 days | Year-round Activity Level : 2

Self-Guided

Self-Guided Kunisaki Wayfarer

6 days | January - June & September - December Activity Level : 5

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7, 10, 14-day Kyushu itinerary in beautiful Japan

Need some help with your 7 day Kyushu itinerary? In this post, I’ll give suggestions for how to spend one week or 14 days in Kyushu based on my own 10 day route around the island.

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you. This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

I never expected my week in Kyushu to be my favourite of the four weeks I spent in Japan but it was a truly fantastic place to explore. I loved Fukuoka, the capital of Kyushu and a city with all the arcades, karaoke booths, temples and cute Japanese touches of its more famous city counterparts.

As someone who loves nature, seeing the volcanoes in Aso and Kagoshima was pretty awesome. Plus I was surprised to find multi-coloured hot springs in Beppu!

This post will be particularly helpful for anyone looking for a JR Kyushu rail pass itinerary or budget backpackers on the SUNQ Bus Pass. Everything on this list is accessible by public transport and suitable for families, couples – or solo travellers in Japan like me!

TIP: You must buy your JR Rail Pass before your trip. This is because the rail pass is only attended to be used by tourists. (There is a limited number available for direct purchase in Japan at a higher price.)

Buy your Kyushu JR Rail Pass here.

Click here for a 7, 14, or 21-day JR Rail Pass for the whole of Japan: Whole Japan Rail Pass

Table of Contents

7, 10, or 14 day Kyushu Itinerary :

• Begin in Fukuoka
• Back to Fukuoka
• Alternative Kyushu Japan itinerary route options

This is just an overview – read on below for more info about this fun-filled Kyushu itinerary!

It’s worth remembering Kyushu is huge, and you will have to be selective. I’ve tried to combine the BEST places that are fairly easy to access from each other, so you get a unique range of nature and cities to visit without suffering from travel burnout. If you prefer a slower pace and only have one week, be selective about which places you visit!

Thinking of visiting this beautiful part of Japan? Here are my suggestions for the ultimate 7 – 14 day Kyushu itinerary.

How to get to Kyushu?

Fukuoka great place to start and end your Kyushu Japan itinerary as it’s linked to the rest of Japan by Shinkansen. I took the train from Hiroshima direct to Fukuoka.

Alternatively, Fukuoka is made very accessible by its Hakata Airport. You can fly here internationally, or fly directly from Tokyo. It is particularly easy to fly here via Singapore since this is an international transport hub.

Kyushu itinerary (7-14 days)

I really liked Fukuoka as a city because it still has all of Japan’s craziness but it feels like a real, working city – it is the largest city in Kyushu. Don’t expect to see so many tourists when you visit Kyushu! It’s Fukuoka where I enjoyed arcades alongside the locals, my first karaoke booth experience, ate at a green tea-themed bakery and saw a very impressive anime water show.

This water show is free and can be seen at Canal City Shopping centre any evening at 8pm – it is the best I’ve ever seen, with projections which tell a story over an entire building, with perfectly timed fountains. Hard to explain but honestly worth it!

Speaking of, Canal City Shopping Centre is beautiful and worth a stop if you like shopping or not. The entire mall is built around an artificial canal. They also regularly have upcoming J-pop groups performing (free to view). I saw all the men singing along to 3 separate girl groups when I was just passing through… very unique, that’s for sure.

I visited Tocho-ji Temple to see its red pagoda and Buddha Statue. I also visited Kushida Shrine, famous for being home to the Hakata Gion Yamasaka festival. This festival sees huge decorative floats begin their journey from Kushida Shrine and take a walk through Fukuoka city. I could see them in storage when I visited!

You can also take the tube to the Fukuoka Tower and Seaside Momochi area. 

Fukuoka Tower is very 234m tall with an observation deck at 134m with views of the city. It is the city’s tallest building. Seaside Momochi is a unique ‘modern style’, manmade beach area. Momochihama Beach is a huge stretch of sand, making it popular on sunny days.

When I visited this part of Fukuoka, there were huge, huge crowds of teenage girls outside Fukuoka Yafuoku Dome , waiting for their favourite J-pop band. Merchandisers were making great money selling t-shirts sporting their favourite stars.

One of my favourite things to do in Fukuoka was walking around the Hakata Castle ruins . From here, I walked to Ohori Park . Maybe you’ll see the terrapins and giant carp enjoying the lake in the centre of this park too.

For more information about what to do in Fukuoka, how to spend your evening and where to eat, please view my updated Fukuoka Guide here:

Things to do in Fukuoka – my complete guide.

Wondering where to stay in Fukuoka?

• Hostel: Hostel TOKI is a really cute hostel, perfect for backpackers, with a bar, laundry services, tea and coffee, air-con, and private bunks. Female dorms and private rooms are available. You can rent a bike for 500 yen a day, although it’s within walking distance of the station and nearby temples. From $20 pn.
• Budget: For a budget hotel with single and double rooms, Hotel Grandolce Hakata is centrally located. Rooms have an air-con, a TV, and a private bathroom. For a comfortable, clean, and convenient stay that’s good value for money, this is about the best you’ll find. From $50 pn.
• Apartments: Grand Inn Canalside offers aparthotel rooms with a kitchen, terrace with river views, TV, and air-con. From $88pn. Meanwhile, GRAND BASE Hakata Sumiyoshi offers cosier, centrally-located room for a slightly higher price. From $120pn.
• Ho tel: Pick The Royal Park Canvas Nakasu for a central hotel with gorgeous rooms and onsite facilities including a restaurant, bar, and sauna. From $150pn. For luxury, the beautifully decorated boutique With The Style hotel features a garden, rooftop hot tub, and two restaurants.

2 hours from Fukuoka, Beppu is a small resort city set between Beppu Bay and volcanic mountains, and a must-do spot to add to a Kyushu itinerary.

Beppu is famous for its hot springs – it has over 2000 of them! So this is the perfect place to try out a Japanese onsen. However, the real event here is the hot springs you can’t get into. The famous ‘jigoku’ which literally translates as ‘hell’ refers to multi-coloured springs which reach up to 100 degrees Celsius. The volume of water dispelled daily in Beppu is second only to Yellowstone, USA.

To see Beppu’s 7 hells is 2000 yen (£13.43) for all or 400 yen each.

‘Tornado hell’ is one of the world’s most regularly erupting geysers. It goes off for approx. 8 minutes every 35 minutes and the water reaches up to 150 Celcius! Though it’s the blue and red boiling onsen are the most beautiful.

For lunch, you can head to one of the many stalls selling food boiled in natural hot water. I recommend the Steam Kitchen aka Jigokumushikobo Kannawa – here you pick up your order on a vending machine, and after it’s prepared you to put on big rubber gloves and place it yourself into the natural boiling water! Definitely the most unique foodie experience I had in Japan! (& the great news is, it’s suitable for veggies and carnivores alike.) My lunch experience was 1200 yen.

Head to my Kyushu highlights video on my Instagram @cassiethehag to see videos of the experience or wait till you get there and see if you get as confused as I was!

A very unique activity to try next on your Beppu itinerary is a hot spring sand bath … however, being buried in the sand didn’t appeal to me, despite the rumoured health benefits.

All the geothermic activity in Beppu is not surprising seeing as Kyushu is rife with volcanoes – the nearest, Aso, is 60 miles away and our next stop.

Where to stay in Beppu?

For hostels, J-Hoppers Beppu Guesthouse is ideal! It has a shared lounge and kitchen, and I appreciated the clean female dorms with privacy curtains over the beds. It’s simple but well-located and really friendly. From $15pn.

If you prefer a budget guest house, Guesthouse Sakichi has rooms from $30pn and is a sweet, traditional-style home with welcoming hosts.

For hotels, head to HAJIMARI Beppu for a modern, stylish, and spacious aparthotel with excellent service and an onsite coffee shop. From $100pn. Or stay in luxury at AMANE resort SEIKAI with onsite hot springs baths, multiple restaurants and a spa. Rooms have chic furnishings, ocean views, and comfortable sofas with a TV. From $200pn.

Aso Volcano is the biggest volcano in Japan (and one of the biggest volcanoes in the world). The crater is famous for its aqua blue lake which is sometimes closed due to toxic gas fumes. There are loads of touristy activities in the area, including horse riding and museums, but taking a picnic or doing one of the hiking routes is probably the best option.

Visiting Aso Volcano can be temperamental as it has its own weather system, so check the weather and go early for the best chance of a clear view. Although I was unable to see into the famous crater due to a large display of toxic gas fumes during my visit, I was lucky to have clear views of the gorgeous nature instead. 

Check the status before you go:   http://www.aso.ne.jp/~volcano/eng/

The bus to the crater is 650 yen (£4.42) or 1300 yen return. Hiking or hitchhiking, either way, is of course free. I actually hitchhiked with a local on my way back down because I was worried about getting sunburnt.

Where to stay in Aso?

If you stay in hostels, I would recommend Base Backpackers Aso – it had a great vibe and was one of the best-equipped hostels I’ve ever been to; think great tourist info, super clean kitchen (including cooking basics such as olive oil and fresh garlic) and helpful hosts. On my first evening, they even ordered veggie food at the hostel for me because I was tired! It cost 650 yen.

For budget guest houses, AsoHakuunSanso is a natural hot spring resort guest house with mountain views. It also serves Japanese and Western dishes served in the restaurant at breakfast and dinner. From $58pn. As for hotels, Fairfield by Mar riott is the top-rated option in the area and a good pick for mid-range travellers due to its location near the station, modern facilities, and easy access to Mt Aso. From $110pn.

If you’re able to splash out on a Japanese-style traditional inn, Sozankyo will be a dream. It has outdoor and indoor hot spring baths, special Japanese set meals in a Komorebi dining room (you can even have a traditional multi-course Kaiseki dinner) and has massage treatments available. From $370pn.

I decided to spend a second night in Aso because I loved the landscape so much! On the second day in Aso, you could take a day trip to Karawara Onsen .

I spent my second day in Aso simply enjoying the gorgeous countryside and walking up to one of the small Buddhist temples in the area. Unfortunately, the main gate and offering hall of Aso Shrine (20 minutes by bus from Aso Station) collapsed in the 2016 earthquake. Aso Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, so one of the small, secluded local temples makes a good alternative.

In Kumamoto, you can see Kumamoto Castle which dates back to the 17th century. Although it was badly damaged in the 2016 7.0 earthquake, it remains a significant landmark. It has a fascinating history and a key visit for anyone interested in samurais!

I had 10 days in Kyushu, and to avoid travel burn out I decided to miss Kumamoto from my itinerary in order to avoid travel fatigue. However, history lovers should definitely add it to their Kyushu itinerary.

I still got to meet the Kumamoto mascot though! Meet Kumamon.

In Kagoshima, the main attraction is Sakurajima volcano which looms just off the coast. It translates to Cherry Blossom volcano and formed during an enormous eruption 22000 years ago. The ferry from Kagoshima to Sakurajima was 290 yen (return) and takes 15 minutes each way.

Once you arrive on Sakurajima Island , it is common to view key attractions by bus. You can pick a budget option, where the bus takes you to three of the key observation points on the island, or get a one-day bus pass for 500 yen. Upon arriving, the visitor centre at the ferry port can help you decide which route to take. You could also choose to rent a bike.

Highly recommended in Kagoshima is the Sengan-en Garden although I didn’t enter as this costs 1800 yen. I decided to skip it because it was out of my budget but this Japanese landscape garden, built in the 1700s, does look serene.

Other things to do in Kagoshima include visiting Mt Shiroyama for a beautiful view over the city or taking a steam sand bath.

Getting around Kagoshima is very easy! From my hostel, I just caught a tram to the ferry port. See how cute my tram was below – and he also had the butt of a pig, for some reason. Finally, I took the train from Kagoshima back to Fukuoka to complete my 10-day Kyushu itinerary. This was the longest distance on my JR Kyushu rail pass itinerary, taking almost 3 hours.

Where to stay in Kagoshima?

There aren’t many good hostel options in Kagoshima, but the well-reviewed Green Guest House was conveniently-located and clean, even if it didn’t have the same character as other hostels I stayed at in Japan.

For hotels, Guest House Carapan is good for budget travellers and has a coffee shop and sea views. From $45pn. Meanwhile, Sheraton Kagoshima is an excellent mid-range with a fitness centre, garden, restaurant, and spa facilities. From $150pn.

ALTERNATE PLACES TO VISIT ON A KYUSHU ITINERAR Y

YUFUIN – another onsen town only 10km from Beppu and perhaps most well-known for its trendy shopping area which includes everything from boutique shops to Heidi-themed market stalls, and even a floral market inspired by The Cotswold in England. Mount Yufu and Lake Kinrinko make it a good stop for nature lovers too.

NAGASAKI – Sadly most well-known for being the second location where an atomic bomb was dropped during WWII, instantly killing thousands. Today it is home to a b eautiful peace park and the lookout point from Mount Inasa has amazing views over the city. 

The city has both traditional Japanese influences and also Chinese, Dutch and Portuguese architecture – interestingly, Nagasaki was the only port city in Japan from the 16th – the 19th century. 

From Nagasaki, you could also visit HUIS TEN BOSCH – a Dutch-themed theme park. I can hear you booking your ticket already. 🙂 

KIRISHIMA or KUROKAWA ONSEN – For a more secluded onsen experience and the perfect place to stay in a Ryokan. The nature here looks incredible so good for those who like chilling out in sleepy villages at the end of a long hike.

YAKUSHIMA – Beautiful island full of moss-covered forests and the inspiration behind Princess Mononoke. Accessible by plane or ferry from mainland Kyushu. Hiking trails can be taken individually with a bit of research, or use of a guide. I would love to visit Yakushima more than anything!

Kyushu Travel Itinerary Q&A

How to get around kyushu.

JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS

This gives you unlimited use of JR trains in Kyushu for 3 or 5 consecutive days. It will cost 8500 – 1800 yen depending on which option you want. You can buy this online or at any major station in Kyushu once you arrive.

3-5 day rail pass just for Kyushu: JR Kyushu Rail Pass (3 or 5 days )

Alternatively, use the Whole Japan rail pass.

SUNQ BUS PASS

Runs on 99% of long-distance and local buses in Kyushu and gives you unlimited use of them for 3 or 4 consecutive days. Usually costs 9000 – 14000 yen depending on which area/length of time you book it for.

If you’re not on a budget, self-drive road trip Kyushu itineraries are an amazing way to immerse yourself more fully in the nature and culture of another country. 

HINT: calculate approximate transport costs based on your itinerary BEFORE buying a pass – it might work out cheaper to buy all tickets separately. 

Best time to visit Kyushu?

Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, is a fantastic destination year-round. However, the shoulder seasons (Spring and Autumn) are an ideal time to visit.

Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Kyushu, thanks in large part to the region’s stunning cherry blossom displays, which begin blooming from late March to early April. Parks and gardens throughout the island burst into bloom during this time, creating a truly magical atmosphere. The weather is mild and pleasant – perfect for exploring the outdoors.

Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid in Kyushu, but it’s also a great time to enjoy the island’s beaches. The Kyushu coastline is beautiful, and it’s a great place for surfing or sunbathing. Still bring a rainjacket, as Kyushu is rainier than other parts of Japan during Summer.

Autumn (September to November) is an ideal time to visit Kyushu. The weather cools down slightly, making it ideal for hiking and exploring Kyushu’s many scenic trails. The fall foliage is also spectacular during this time – you can see Autumn leaves in many places around Kyushu, including the Fukuoka castle ruins, Takachiho Gorge, Yufuin, and the Kuju Mountain Range.

Winter (December to February) is a good time to avoid the crowds in Kyushu and the weather is mild. Snowfall is rare except in mountainous areas such as Mount Aso or Kirishima National Park. It’s a perfect time for soaking in hot springs to escape the cold, or wrapping up and enjoying the prefecture’s parks and gardens.

Overall, the best time to visit Kyushu is probably Spring and Autumn, but since Kyushu is mild and not as touristy as other parts of Japan, you can have a wonderful time here all year round. Spring offers cherry blossoms, summer is great for beach days, Autumn is picturesque with colourful foliage, and Winter is the ideal time for unique experiences such as hot springs or winter festivals.

How long should you spend in Kyushu?

If you want to explore major cities like Fukuoka or Nagasaki, three to four days should be sufficient. However, if you plan on visiting multiple destinations within Kyushu, such as onsens, national parks, and historical sites, I recommend planning at least a 7-day Kyushu itinerary. On a 14 day Kyushu itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to see more of the natural attractions and lesser-known hikes.

FIRST-TIME IN JAPAN?

Get your 7 day JR Rail Pass in advance with a 4G Sim card included.

Or simply save time by purchasing your 4G Sim card in advance – you can pick it up from the airport when you arrive!

See the iconic Mt Fuji on a day tour from Tokyo.

Book top-rated travel insurance with World Nomads . They have flexible insurance options which you can even book when you’re already on the road.

Check GetYourGuide for a list of current and popular tours.

I hope you found this Kyushu travel blog helpful! What else would you like to add to a one-week Kyushu itinerary?

Share this:

Hi, I'm Cassie, and I've been solo travelling the globe since May 2018. In this time, I've backpacked around Southeast Asia, Japan and The Balkans, alongside living in New Zealand and Australia. Current location? Mexico

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16 comments.

it really is a stunning part of Japan if you ever have the chance to go! 🙂

Ahh they were definitely my favourites! Thanks so much

The volcano and geyser look fantastic! I’d love to explore more of Japan, I’ve only been to Tokyo and this itinerary is inspiring!

It is such a beautiful region with many unique activities

This looks so amazing! I had never heard of this area in Japan before! Now I wanna go :p

Wow!! Absolutely pinning for later. Japan is such a bucket list trip for me, and this area looks stunning. Thanks for sharing!

This is amazing Cassie. I have never heard of this area before. So wish to see Japan next year.

Kyushu sounds like an amazing place to visit. Hopefully this quarantine will end soon so I can go visit.

I have never heard of Kyushu. Now when I go to Japan I am going to try to make a stop there. It looks breaktakingly beautiful!

Such a detailed guide, thanks so much! A trip to Japan has been on my travel wish list for years, but I haven’t looked into any specific areas/places to visit yet. I’ll certainly take your recommendations onboard though as I love geysers and the mountainscapes in this article look amazing too!

aw thanks so much Kristen! There was so much more I wanted to see there but I was so worried about sticking to my budget at that part of my trip xx

Great post Cassie! I’ve spent months in Kyushu for work but only one day off a week it was hard to get out very much (I still did crazy 10 hour round trips like to Mt Aso tho). This gives me some great ideas for next time I’m down there.

Ahh would love to visit Nagoya!

Japan is my favorite country and I love exploring less touristy places. During our last trip we went to Nagoya and rarely saw tourists. Huis Ten Bosch is definitely on my bucketlist :))

Dang! We already had planned visiting Japan but after this we’re ready to book the flight tomorrow! Beautiful photos and lovely informative article. Thanks for sharing!

Marta & Max | https://www.connectedhorizons.co.uk

These images are gorgeous! I guess I’ve found another spot to add to my to-visit list. Glad you are having a good time.

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Best of Kyushu Japan self-drive tour

18 days from £7,330pp

• Day-to-day Itinerary
• Japan trip ideas

Tour highlights

Explore the beautiful volcanic mountains and dramatic Mount Aso caldera of Aso-Kuju National Park.

Take a boat ride down the striking Takachiho Gorge, amid tumbling waterfalls and picturesque mountain cherry trees.

Visit the hot springs of Kurokawa to stay in a traditional inn.

Spend time in the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park of Nagasaki.

Explore the picturesque gardens and samurai residences of Chiran.

Price includes:

• Scheduled international and domestic flights
• Fully insured vehicle hire
• All accommodation
• 24-hour support while you travel

Itinerary idea in detail

Includes international flights from a choice of UK airports, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Tokyo.

Once you arrive in Tokyo, transfer directly to your flight to Fukuoka. Once in Fukuoka, a representative will meet you at the airport to guide you through arrivals. They will then show you to the waiting transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing after your long flight. One recommendation would be to stay local and enjoy 'yatai' or street food in and around Canal City in Hakata.

Spend the morning exploring the vibrant city of Fukuoka. The canals running through the city give a unique flavour. In the evening head out for a street food tour for a true introduction to Kyushu cuisine.

Pick up your hire car today and drive to the onsen village of Kurokawa and spend the rest of the day at leisure relaxing in the sumptuous hot springs.

There are some nice walks to be done or make use of your hire car to explore more of the area. You can also take advantage of a day pass to visit other hot springs in the village.

Travel south to the sheer limestone cliffs of Takachiho Gorge. Once freshened up, perhaps hire a rowing boat and drift gently along the river through waterfalls and cliff faces.

Make the drive down south to the small coastal town of Ibusuki famous for the hot sand bathing on offer in the area.

From Ibusuki head up to the larger city of Kagoshima, not before stopping off in the small town of Chiran to see the Kamikaze museum and samurai residences.

Spend a day in the city of Kagoshima. The most prominent feature of Kagoshima is its location in the shadow of the enormous Sakurajima volcano. The active volcano often spews ash over the city and leaves the residents with the almost daily task of sweeping ash from their driveways.

Take a short drive to the Kirishima National Park, a fantastic destination for hikers of all levels.

At leisure, visit Kirishima National Park to enjoy some of the many walking trails and soak up the beautifully verdant green of this part of Kyushu.

Return to Kagoshima, drop off your hire car and board the train to Kumamoto and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Our recommendation for the afternoon is to visit Kumamoto Castle and its nearby Suizenji gardens.

A short drive to the port to board the car ferry over to Unzen Peninsula from where you climb the mountain via the sulphuric bubbling pools at the top of Mount Unzen. After, head back down the mountain over to Nagasaki Bay and the city itself.

At leisure in Nagasaki. It's worth visiting the small yet quite harrowing peace museum, but more of what Nagasaki has to offer is in town, such as Glover Garden, on which 'Madame Butterfly' was based, and Dejima Wharf at sunset.

At leisure, explore 'Gunkanjima' or 'Battleship Island', infamous for its eerily vacant and uninhabited atmosphere often used in movies.

Continue by train to Hakata, a lovely journey along the coast and through paddy fields. Once in Fukuoka, enjoy the remainder of your evening in this compact but buzzy modern city.

Take the easy subway line to the airport and board your flight back to Tokyo for a final night in the capital.

Take the airport shuttle bus to the airport and board your return flight. Your return flight will arrive the same day.

Accommodation options

While the itinerary price reflects the suggested accommodation, Audley trips are 100% tailor-made, and a specialist can help you select the option best suited to your tastes and budget.

Royal Park Hotel THE Fukuoka

Okunoyu Ryokan

Yamatoya Ryokan

Ibusuki Ginsyo

Richmond Hotel Kagoshima Kinseicho

Kirishima Hotel

Kumamoto Tokyu Inn

Hotel New Nagasaki

Monterey Hotel

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Villa Fontaine Shiodome

The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon

View more accommodation in tokyo.

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Girl Eat World

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!

Tips for planning Kyushu Itinerary

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.

My 7-Day Kyushu Travel Itinerary

In the end, after all the research, this is the Kyushu itinerary I went with:

• 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 4: Stay in  Nagasaki All-day
• Day 5: Nagasaki & Fukuoka . Spend time in Nagasaki in the morning, then go to  Fukuoka in the afternoon.
• Day 6: Kumamoto Day trip
• Day 7: Spend time in  Fukuoka in the morning, Fly back to Singapore in the afternoon

What to do and where to go in Kyushu, Japan

Here are some places you can consider visiting in Kyushu:

1. Fukuoka (2 days)

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 .

2. Nagasaki (2-3 days)

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.

3. Kumamoto (Day trip from Fukuoka)

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 .

4. Kagoshima (1-2 days)

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.

5. Beppu (1 day)

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!

Booking Accommodations in Kyushu

Tips for booking hotels.

• Book ahead of time – Sometimes I like to “wing it” and book accommodations last minute in the spirit of being spontaneous. I quickly learned this isn’t a very smart move when it comes to visiting Japan, as the good hotels get booked up really fast.
• If you are a non-smoker, pay attention while booking and make sure you tick a non-smoking room  in the room type section. Smoking indoors is not illegal in Japan, so some hotels would segregate smoking and non-smoking rooms by floor. I had to stay in a smoking room in Nagasaki because I booked a smoking room by mistake and they had no more non-smoking rooms 🙁
• As we are traveling heavily by train, I find that staying at hotels that are on the main station itself  (the station where the shinkansen line stops) really helped us during traveling days since we don’t need to worry about the logistics of getting to the train station. As a bonus point, these areas also tend to be very convenient since in Japan the main station would also come attached with all the amenities like convenience stores, major stores for shopping, and restaurants.

Kyushu Hotel Recommendations

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.

• Hotel Granvia Hiroshima is literally on top of the Hiroshima station. Despite this, it was not noisy since the hotel rooms are located high up and they are good with noise insulation.
• JR Kyushu Hotel Nagasaki – yes, JR as in Japan Rail. Nagasaki station is quite small and the lobby of this hotel is right outside the exit of the station!
• Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Hakata , next to the Hakata Central station in Fukuoka – about 5 minutes walk. I ended up staying here because my first choice was booked up.
• JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Hakata Central – This was my first choice for Fukuoka, but it was booked up during my visit! It would have been really convenient because Hakata is a major station with all the convenience stores, shopping, and restaurants.

Using JR Pass in Japan

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.

25 Comments

• May 17, 2024

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.

• September 14, 2023

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

• March 15, 2023

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.

• April 26, 2020

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!

• January 7, 2020

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.

• December 9, 2019

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.

• October 4, 2019

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.

• September 14, 2019

Hi Melissa,

Have you been to Oita and Yufuin before? are both of these places near to beppu?

• September 15, 2019

Hey Ellisha, I haven’t been to those places unfortunately, but they are very close to Beppu.

• July 1, 2019

can i just buy the train tickets without having a JR pass? do they sell it over the counter?

• July 2, 2019

yes they sell tickets over the counter at the station at regular price

• May 15, 2019

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

• May 16, 2019

depends on your travel plan, but if you are only going to be in Kyushu then JR Kyushu will be sufficient.

• May 13, 2019

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?

• May 14, 2019

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.

• January 30, 2019

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

• July 2, 2018

Thank you for the article. Very clearly written

• March 13, 2017

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

• November 21, 2016

Nice article! Wish to have JR pass experience. Thank you Melissa.

• November 14, 2016

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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Kyushu Region

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 .

Kyushu in Detail

Plan your trip.

• Cherry Blossom in Kyushu

Destinations in Kyushu

Nagasaki City

Kumamoto City

Miyazaki City

Kagoshima City

Let us know how we can help.

10 days, 9 nights

The following is a suggested, very fast paced itinerary for travelers who spend 10 days and 9 nights in Kyushu . This itinerary is designed around using a rental car for some of the rural areas where public transportation is inconvenient. Public transportation can be used instead of a rental car, however, it will result in longer travel times.

A rail pass does not pay off for this itinerary. A rental car is recommended for days 6-9 and would simplify transportation on day 4. Alternatively, public transportation can be used for the entire itinerary at a possibly lower cost, but with appropriate adjustments made to account for the longer travel times. Below are some sample budgets for the itinerary, excluding airfare. Find out more about the sample budgets and about the current yen exchange rates .

Questions? Ask in our forum .

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Typhoon Shanshan batters Kyushu ahead of likely landfall

The Kyushu region was being battered by strong winds, heavy rain and high waves early Thursday morning ahead of a likely landfall by powerful Typhoon Shanshan, with emergency warnings in place and the authorities urging those in the storm's path to evacuate while it's still safe to do so.

Rain, wind and waves are intensifying in southern Kyushu, and the storm has already caused major disruptions to transportation networks in the region and beyond.

The Meteorological Agency, in a statement released on Wednesday night, warned of the risk of landslides, flooding and storm surge in southern Kyushu. The region could also face record-breaking winds and rainfall.

The statement added that areas far form the storm's center, mainly in western Japan and the Pacific side of eastern Japan, could see severe impacts as the typhoon brings in warm and humid air, resulting in heavy rain and thunderstorms.

In areas of southwestern Japan expected to face the storm's strongest winds, the agency warned that some houses could collapse, urging residents to take shelter in study buildings and to stay away from windows.

According to NHK, the city of Miyazaki received over 160 reports of damage due to the typhoon from noon on Wednesday through to 6:00 a.m. Thursday. About 70% of the damage was caused by strong winds, the public broadcaster said, with 22 injuries also reported. Most of the injuries were caused by broken windowpanes. All of the injuries were not life-threatening.

Rainfall totals over the next 24 hours in the southern Kyushu region could reach about 600 millimeters, and in certain areas, a total of 1,000 mm could fall over the next couple of days, the agency warned. Rainfall figures in northern Kyushu could reach 500 mm over the same period.

On Wednesday afternoon, the weather agency issued an emergency storm warning and an emergency high tide warning for Kagoshima Prefecture, excluding the Amami region. An emergency storm surge warning was also issued for the Satsuma region of Kagoshima, with the agency warning residents of the possibility of an extreme rise in sea levels due to the effects of the storm.

The island village of Mishima in Kagoshima was placed under a Level 5 emergency warning — the rarely issued highest level — impacting 369 people across 202 households. The alert level warns of a life-threatening situation and urges residents to take action to protect themselves immediately, even if they can no longer evacuate safely.

Level 4 evacuation orders were issued in parts of Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures, including the entire city of Miyazaki, home to over 400,000 people, and 27 cities in Kagoshima Prefecture.

Residents in the city of Miyazaki were encouraged to relocate to an evacuation center or the house of a family member or friend in a safer area to protect themselves from possible landslides and flooding. They were asked to bring emergency food supplies as well as goods for infectious disease prevention to the evacuation centers.

Level 4 evacuation orders were also seen in parts of Aichi and Shizuoka prefectures — despite being distant from the typhoon itself, the region has faced heavy rain brought in by the storm. A Level 4 evacuation order was issued for 14 households in the Okuko area of Gamagori, Aichi Prefecture, on Wednesday morning, after a landslide in the city trapped five family members. Two of those trapped had been rescued by early Wednesday evening.

Three cities in Shizuoka Prefecture are also under evacuation orders due to a possible landslide as a result of the heavy rainfall.

“To protect your life and the lives of your loved ones, please flee to evacuation areas specified by local authorities and secure your safety,” Satoshi Sugimoto, an official at the weather agency, said at a news conference on Wednesday afternoon.

The agency is urging residents to follow orders by local authorities and evacuate or take appropriate action before the typhoon makes landfall.

“Storms, tidal waves and storm surges like never experienced before are to be expected and will require the utmost caution,” Sugimoto said at an earlier news conference.

As of late Wednesday evening, Typhoon Shanshan was moving north toward Kyushu at 10 kph, with the storm's central area, producing its strongest winds, already covering portions of the island. It had a central pressure of 935 hectopascals, sustained winds near its center of up to 180 kph and gusts of up to 252 kph.

Shanshan is expected to weaken only slightly by Thursday morning as its center nears Kyushu. After landfall, the typhoon is expected to weaken further, but it will remain a dangerous storm as it moves toward Shikoku or Honshu on Friday. Its exact course up to and after landfall remains unclear .

Power outages have been reported across Kyushu, with over 67,000 structures affected as of early Thursday morning, including over 57,000 in Kagoshima Prefecture and more than 9,000 in Miyazaki Prefecture.

Transport services across Japan are also facing major disruptions as Typhoon Shanshan approaches.

JR Kyushu suspended its shinkansen services between Kumamoto and Kagoshima-Chuo stations starting at around 8 p.m. on Wednesday, with the suspension lasting until at least Friday.

Service suspensions were also planned on the line between Kumamoto Station and Hakata Station in the city of Fukuoka starting at 8 a.m. Thursday, as well as across the entire Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen line, which connects Nagasaki and Takeo in Saga Prefecture.

West Japan Railway (JR West) said it will suspend services starting late Thursday on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, which connects Shin-Osaka station and Fukuoka’s Hakata Station.

On Thursday, some shinkansen trains heading toward Hakata will be suspended from Hiroshima onward at around 6:30 p.m., while several heading in the other direction will be suspended after 9:30 p.m.

The following day, the Sanyo Shinkansen between Hiroshima and Hakata stations, as well as the Hakata Minami Line between Hakata and Hakata Minami stations, will be suspended from the start of the day.

Depending on the status of the typhoon, the scope of the planned suspension may change, JR West said. There is a possibility that the suspension may continue into Saturday.

The Tokaido Shinkansen could experience similar disruptions from Friday into Saturday. The line saw periodic outages on Wednesday as heavy rain hit the Tokai region.

Local rail services across Kyushu are also feeling the storm’s impact, with many southern JR Kyushu lines, including the Kagoshima Line, and those operated by other companies, completely suspended.

Air travel has been hit hard as well, with thousands of passengers affected by cancellations. On Tuesday, 55 flights, mainly those bound for the Amami Islands and southern Kyushu, were canceled. As of 11 p.m. Tuesday, Japan Airlines had canceled 88 flights scheduled for Wednesday, while ANA canceled 10 and other carriers canceled 19 flights.

Highways are also expected to face extensive and prolonged closures due to Shanshan, with sections of the Tomei Expressway and Shin-Tomei Expressway in Shizuoka and Aichi prefectures already shut down.

On Wednesday morning, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida ordered related parties to work closely with local governments to ensure the evacuation of residents in areas expected see flooding or be affected by landslides.

The government held an emergency operations meeting for the typhoon on Wednesday, calling for cooperation among the land ministry and the weather agency with local municipalities to prepare for the worst.

“Further impacts are expected, so please make every effort to carefully disseminate information as early as possible to the public and to foreign travelers,” land minister Tetsuo Saito said at the emergency meeting.

“The typhoon is moving slowly and therefore its impact may be prolonged — we ask that we maintain and operate under extreme caution, make maximum use of the on-site capabilities of the land ministry and work closely with local governments to ensure a thorough disaster response.”

See The Japan Times' disaster information portal for live updates on Typhoon Shanshan

In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.

Typhoon Shanshan Strikes Southern Japan After Millions Ordered To Evacuate (Photos)

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Millions of people in Japan were ordered to evacuate their homes as powerful Typhoon Shanshan made landfall in the southwestern part of the country Thursday, leaving dozens injured and hundreds of thousands of homes without power.

A worker removes debris blown away by strong winds caused by Typhoon Shanshan in Miyazaki.

Shanshan made landfall in the southern Japanese island of Kyushu with sustained wind speeds of nearly 90 mph (144 kilometers per hour) and gusts above 125 mph.

According to Kyodo News, more than 80 people have been injured across three prefectures in southern Japan.

Authorities have linked three deaths —a couple in their 70s and a man in his 30s—from earlier in the week to the heavy rains triggered by the powerful storm before it made landfall.

At least 4 million in the typhoon’s path are under evacuation orders as it moves further inland with wind speeds similar to that of a Category 1 hurricane (75 mph).

Toyota has shut down all its factories across the country due to the storm, while other carmakers including Honda, Nissan and Mazda have halted work at some of their plants.

Get Forbes Breaking News Text Alerts: We’re launching text message alerts so you'll always know the biggest stories shaping the day’s headlines. Text “Alerts” to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here .

160,230. That’s how many households are without power across Kyushu island’s seven prefectures.

Air travel and train services have also been severely disrupted along the path of the storm. Japan Airlines canceled all flights to and from eight airports in southern Japan, including Nagasaki on Thursday. According to FlightAware, more than 500 flights across the country have been canceled and hundreds more delayed on Thursday. The Shinkansen bullet-train service were also suspended all across Kyushu.

A vehilce drives along a flooded road next to the Sakai River (R), which overflowed due to the ... [+] effects of Typhoon Shanshan in Tamana City, Kumamoto.

A bus is seen submerged in in Japan's Oita prefecture as the torrential rainfall brought by the ... [+] typhoon caused major flooding along its path.

Workers remove a fallen in Usa, Oita prefecture as hundreds of thousands of homes in southern Japan ... [+] remained without power on Thursday.

A tree brought down in the Oita prefecture by strong winds from Typhoon Shanshan—which made landfall ... [+] maximum sustained wind speeds of nearly 90 miles per hour.

This photo shows rescue workers outside a house that was hit by a landslide in the Aichi prefecture ... [+] triggered by heavy rainfall preceeding Typhoon Shanshan's landfall.

More than 500 flights across country were also canceled due to the typhoon.

Further Reading

Authorities assess damage after Typhoon Shanshan makes landfall in Kyushu (Japan Times)

3 dead, over 80 hurt as typhoon makes landfall in southwest Japan (Kyodo News)

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Tropical Storm Shanshan Drenches Southern Japan, Disrupting Train and Air Travel

The storm weakened after making landfall as a typhoon, still posed the risk of landslides and floods as it moved at a crawling speed.

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By Hisako Ueno Yan Zhuang and John Yoon

Hisako Ueno reported from Okayama, Japan.

Tropical storm Shanshan was drenching southern Japan with record rainfall early Friday, a day after making landfall as a typhoon and flooding towns, knocking out power to tens of thousands of homes, disrupting travel and forcing more than four million evacuations.

The storm, the strongest to hit Japan this year, had maximum sustained winds of up to 46 miles per hour and gusts of 51 m.p.h. early on Friday, according to the U.S. Navy’s Joint Typhoon Warning Center , which downgraded Shanshan from a typhoon to a tropical storm Thursday evening.

Shanshan had peaked at a strength equivalent to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall as a typhoon around 8 a.m. Thursday on Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s main islands, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. It was forecast to move north through Kyushu before shifting east on Friday and Saturday, moving further inland and losing strength.

The storm was weakening as it moved slowly inland, but the authorities issued warnings for landslides and floods in many parts of southwestern Japan. More than 4.1 million people were under evacuation orders nationwide on Thursday, Japan’s Cabinet Office said.

“This is one of the biggest typhoons in recent years, for a prefecture that experiences many typhoons every year,” Kensei Tomisako, a disaster response official in Satsumasendai, said in an interview.

Shanshan has brought record rainfall. Some parts of Kyushu recorded 2.6 feet of rain in 48 hours, forecasters said. The storm, inching north at less than 4 m.p.h. early on Friday, lashed some areas with rain for hours.

Three people died after a landslide on Tuesday buried their home in Gamagori, a city in central Japan that was hit by heavy rain, the local government said early Thursday. Another person died after a roof collapsed in Kamiita Town, according to Japan’s public broadcaster, NHK .

More than 80 people were injured in the storm, and one person was missing, the news agency said. More than 107,000 households were without power early Friday in Kyushu, the service provider Kyushu Electric Power Transmission and Distribution said.

Japan Airlines , one of the country’s largest airlines, canceled all flights to and from Nagasaki and seven other cities in Shanshan’s path on Thursday and said that many flights to and from 20 cities across the country on Friday had already been canceled. All Nippon Airways also canceled all flights that had been scheduled at Kansai International Airport for Friday.

Shinkansen bullet-train service was suspended on Thursday for all of Kyushu , along with service between Tokyo and Osaka, because of heavy rain. Many of the train lines linking major cities in western Japan , including Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima, were also suspended.

On Wednesday, the authorities issued rare emergency warnings for the storm in Kagoshima Prefecture, indicating that a large-scale disaster was possible, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The warnings were downgraded on Thursday morning.

Toyota announced that it would pause production at all 14 of its Japan factories starting Wednesday evening. On Thursday morning, the carmaker said that it would extend the suspension until Friday for all but one of the factories.

Derrick Bryson Taylor , Amanda Holpuch and Orlando Mayorquín contributed reporting.

Hisako Ueno is a reporter and researcher based in Tokyo, writing on Japanese politics, business, labor, gender and culture. More about Hisako Ueno

Yan Zhuang is a Times reporter in Seoul who covers breaking news. More about Yan Zhuang

John Yoon is a Times reporter based in Seoul who covers breaking and trending news. More about John Yoon

Typhoon Shanshan is blasting Japan with torrential rain, fierce winds

The storm may stall, prolonging wind, surge and flooding impacts.

Typhoon Shanshan is slamming southern parts of Japan, bringing with it a slew of impacts that will affect much of the archipelago. Emergency warnings for torrential rain, strong winds, high waves and storm surge are in effect for the Miyazaki, Kagoshima and Ehime prefectures in Japan’s far southwest, with emergency landslide warnings in effect for those areas and Shizuoka prefecture as well.

Shanshan appeared to make landfall near Makurazaki in southern Kyushu , Japan’s southwesternmost main island, Thursday morning local time.

As it came ashore, storm chaser James Reynolds described a “complete whiteout at times” because of wind-blown sheets of rain. Another storm chaser, Jonathan Petramala, captured footage of a swirling curtains of rain. The scene “reminds me of the Dementors in #HarryPotter,” he wrote on X .

Winds in Makurazaki gusted to 85 mph as the storm roared inland. Some areas in southern Kyushu had received over 15 inches of rain between Wednesday and Thursday morning.

The storm peaked at a strength equivalent to a Category 4 hurricane on Tuesday and Wednesday, sideswiping Amami Oshima Island and buffeting Kikai Airport on Kikaijima, a small Japanese island north of Okinawa, with winds gusting near 100 mph. Mesovortices, or smaller eddies inside the eye, were visible on radar as the storm climaxed in intensity, a portent of a powerful typhoon.

While making landfall early Thursday, the slow-moving storm had weakened to the strength equivalent to Category 2 storm. It is expected to weaken further as it moves farther inland.

The strong winds had already knocked out power to 66,000 households in Kyushu. In Miyazaki on Kyushu, 6,000 homes were evacuated.

According to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, Shanshan had maximum sustained winds between 95 and 100 mph in its eyewall — or zone of intense thunderstorms surrounding the storm center — early Thursday morning. The storm was probably producing a storm surge of around 2 meters (6.6 feet) between Makurazaki and Ibusuki in extreme-southern Kyushu.

Until the typhoon’s circulation is fully inland, water will continue to be piled into the Bay of Kagoshima, which may cause inundation of low-lying areas. That will be made worse by Shanshan’s slow forward speed.

Fortunately, the shoreline of the tsunami-prone city of Kagoshima is largely fortified with sea walls and raised high enough above sea level that most infrastructure should escape with minimal impact. That said, winds gusting near 100 mph could cause some damage.

A potentially more significant hazard facing Japan is flooding from heavy rainfall. While building codes mandate resilience to typhoon winds, the nation’s mountainous terrain leads to major vulnerability from typhoon rainfall.

At least one landslide destroyed a home in Gamagori, in western Honshu — Japan’s main island, and more landslides are likely as heavy rains pivot ashore.

Into Thursday, Shanshan’s hurricane-force winds will continue to spread over Kyushu, with tropical-storm-force winds over the island of Shikoku to its north.

At present, Shanshan is facing an atmospheric squeeze play of sorts. It is stalled between two high-pressure systems. The only option for it is to travel north-northeast between the two, which is what is allowing the storm to inch ever closer to Japan.

For now, that motion will bring it into southern Japan, but uncertainty abounds thereafter. Shanshan is too far removed from any low-pressure systems to the north, which would otherwise help to scoop it to the northeast. There’s a chance Shanshan could wobble back offshore and restrengthen. The official forecast from the Japanese Meteorological Agency, however, calls for the storm to progress northeastward, affecting almost the entirety of Japan.

That would dump up to 25 or even 30 inches of rain in the mountains of far-southwest Japan, with 5-to-10-inch amounts common elsewhere along the south coast and windward side of the mountains. To the north, 3 to 5 inches are likely.

Tokyo will probably see intermittent rain squalls through the weekend, with blustery winds Friday and Saturday.

Jason Samenow contributed to this report.