VisitKyushu

About Kyushu
Welcome to Kyushu, a vibrant tapestry of unfiltered local life, culture,and dynamic natural landscapes. Japan’s southernmost major islandoffers something for every traveller. Adventure seekers are drawn to its
volcanic terrain, history buffs relish in its samurai past, and those seeking
tranquillity find solace in its serene onsen retreats. The island’s culinary
delights are as varied as its scenery, promising a treat for every palate.
Accessible yet unspoiled, Kyushu is the road less travelled, brimming withauthentic experiences. This guide invites you on a journey through thisenchanting region via four different routes.

Getting around Kyushu

Regular ferries and high speed boats to islands

Kyushu offers tourists exceptional accessibility with its robusttransportation network. International airports provide convenient globalconnections. High-speed and local trains ensure swift and comfortable
travel across the island. An extensive, world-class highway systemfacilitates seamless road journeys, while high-speed boats and ferries
offer easy access to surrounding islands, enhancing the travel experience.
High quality roads and highways

Over 322 km of Shinkansen track

19 airports serving 47 million travellers a year

Local trains covering every corner of Kyushu

ACCOMMODATION

Luxury Hotels

Discover Kyushu’s
Comfort: Luxurious Hotels,
Traditional Ryokan, andInviting Resorts
A growing number of luxury hotels in Kyushu provide a blend ofmodern amenities and refined elegance, offering exquisite dining
options, state-of-the-art facilities, and impeccable service, ensuring a
comfortable and memorable stay. They are ideal for travellers seeking
a lavish retreat amidst Kyushu’s vibrant culture and scenic beauty.

Traditional Ryokan

Ryokan, the traditional Japanese inns, offer a unique experience. With
tatami-floored rooms, sliding doors, and often an onsen (hot springbath), staying in a ryokan is a cultural immersion. The hospitality,
known as omotenashi, is heartfelt and meticulous, and the cuisine is aculinary journey through local flavours.
Mid-market options are also abundant, offering comfort andconvenience at an affordable price. These accommodations
range from business hotels with essential amenities to charming
guesthouses, where personal service and local insights are part of theexperience.
Each accommodation type in Kyushu offers its own unique experience,
allowing visitors to choose based on their personal preferences, beit luxury, cultural immersion, leisure, or affordability. The region’s
diverse lodging options ensure that every traveller can find a placethat feels like a home away from home, deepening their connection toKyushu’s rich culture and stunning natural beauty.

Mid-market Accommodation

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ROUTE 2

ROUTE 3

ROUTE 4

Cities & Samurai

Taste & Tradition

Spirit of Nature

The Living EarthROUTE 1Cities & Samurai
Discover Kyushu’s samurai martial, artistic, and cultural legacy on a dynamic four-day tour. Aswift, culturally-rich journey blending ancient samurai spirit with modern cities in comfort via theShinkansen and JR Kyushu Rail Pass.

Duration
4 daysSeasonYear roundType
PrivatePrefectures
Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Kagoshima

Group size
2 to 8 persons

ROUTE 1

Cities & Samurai
Embark on an exhilarating four-day journey into the heart of Kyushu’s samurai heritage. This tour weaves
through the streets of Hakata Old Town, visiting quite temples and delving into the art of traditional
textiles, before culminating in a Yatai food stall dining experience. Be whisked away by Shinkansen touncover the secrets of legendary samurai and their martial arts in Kumamoto. The adventure continues inKagoshima, with Sakurajima offering a backdrop for exploration and inspiration. Conclude your journeyamidst the historic beauty of Sengan-en. This tour, blending speed with tradition through the use of theShinkansen and JR Kyushu Rail Pass, offers an unforgettable dive into the samurai culture of Kyushu.

DAYPREFECTURE

ACTIVITY

1Fukuoka

Hakata Old Town Tour, Yatai Food Stall Dinner

2

Kumamoto

Reigando, Shimada Art Museum, Iaido Experience

3Kumamoto,Kagoshima

Kumamoto Castle, Sakurajima Kayak Tour

4

Kagoshima

Sengan-en, Transfer from Kagoshima Airport

ROUTE 2

Taste & Tradition
Depart on a journey that immerses you in the cultural and culinary richness of western Kyushu,
born from a fusion of Japanese views on nature and religion with foreign cultural influences.
Travel via the new West Kyushu Shinkansen and local trains for seamless access.

Duration
6 daysSeasonYear roundType
PrivatePrefectures
Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki

Group size
2 to 8 persons

ROUTE 2

Taste & Tradition
Enjoy a six-day sensory and cultural voyage through Kyushu. Starting in the dynamic streets of Fukuokawith its famous Yatai food stalls, this journey weaves through the serene pottery towns of Saga, and into
the historic heart of Nagasaki. You’ll uncover the rich heritage of Japanese porcelain in Arita, sip traditional
Ureshino tea, and stroll through the multicultural backdrop of Nagasaki’s Chinatown and Europeaninfluenced sites. This tour masterfully blends culinary delights, artisanal craftwork, and historical
exploration, culminating in a deeply enriching experience that captures the essence of Kyushu’s allure.

DAYPREFECTURE

ACTIVITY

1Fukuoka

Hakata Old Town Tour, Yatai Food Stall Dinner

2Saga

Takeo Onsen, Mifuneyama Rakuen, Takeo Library

3

Saga

Izumiyama Quarry, Arita Town, Norito Kiln, Kakiemon Kiln

4Saga,Nagasaki

Ureshino Tea Experience, Dejima to Teramachi Walking Tour

5

Nagasaki

Chinatown, Glover Garden, Oura Church, Ryotei Kagetsu

6Nagasaki

Transfer to Nagasaki Airport or travel to Unzen

ROUTE 3

Spirit of Nature
Follow the road less travelled in this self-drive tour of Eastern Kyushu. Explore the deep
connection between nature and spirituality in the mountains of Kyushu. Travel by car on quiet
country roads and get far off the tourist trail in this excursion into rural Japan.

Duration
7 daysSeasonYear roundType
PrivatePrefectures
Oita, Miyazaki, Kumamoto

Group size
2 to 6 persons

ROUTE 3

Spirit of Nature
Immerse yourself in the landscapes and spirituality of Kyushu with this self-drive tour, designed fortravellers seeking a deep regional experience. Explore the historic Buddhist temples and spiritual sites ofthe Kunisaki Peninsula, and learn about impermanence and gratitude surrounded by breathtaking naturalscenery. Relax in the hot springs of Beppu, and discover the charm of traditional Japanese towns. Journeyto the mystical beauty of Takachiho and experience traditional Kagura dances depicting tales of gods andgoddesses, before journeying to the stunning Aso Caldera and ending the tour in Kumamoto City.

DAYPREFECTURE

ACTIVITY

1

Fukuoka,Oita

Yabakei Gorge Cycling, Rakan-ji

2

Oita

Usa Jingu, Kumano Magaibutsu, Fuki-ji

3

Oita

Shikan Meditation, Kunisaki K1 Trail Hike

4Oita

Beppu Hells, Jigoku-mushi Cooking

5

MiyazakiTakachiho Gorge, Amanoiwato Shrine, Kagura

6

Kumamoto

Aso Caldera, Mountain Biking, Kurokawa Onsen

7

Kumamoto

Kumamoto Castle, Reigando, Transfer to Hakata

ROUTE 4

The Living EarthFeel the power of the earth in this comprehensive tour from the ancient island forest ofYakushima to the volcanic lanscape of Unzen. Travel seamlessly by plane, train, and ferry toaccess the best of Kyushu’s landscape, formed over millenia by powerful natural forces.

Duration
10 days

SeasonYear round

Group size
2 to 8 persons

TypePrivate

Prefectures
Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Kumamoto, Nagasaki

ROUTE 4The Living EarthEmbark on an enchanting journey to Yakushima, immersing yourself in the mystical forests of ancientcedars. Feel the thrill of kayaking around the Sakurajima volcano in Kagoshima. Discover the historical
grandeur of Kumamoto, unwind in the tranquil Unzen Onsen, then sample the rich cultural tapestry ofNagasaki, from a captivating cruise to the enigmatic Gunkanjima to an exquisite geisha dinner.

DAYPREFECTURE

ACTIVITY

1Fukuoka,
Yakushima

Flight to Yakushima

2Yakushima

Shiratani Unsui Gorge or Jomon Sugi Hiking

3Yakushima

E-bike Tour, Snorkelling

4Yakushima,
Kagoshima

Sakurajima Sea Kayak Tour

5Kagoshima

Fish Market Tour, Sengan-en

6

Kagoshima,
Kumamoto

Kumamoto Castle, Iaido Experience

7

Kumamoto,
Unzen

Unzen Onsen Guided Tour

8Unzen,NagasakiDejima to Teramachi Walking Tour

9Nagasaki

Gunkanjima Cruise, Glover Garden, Geisha Dinner

10Nagasaki

Transfer to Hakata or Nagasaki Airport

Visit Kyushu
We hope that the vivid descriptions and enticing itineraries have ignited
your wanderlust. Kyushu is not just a destination; it’s a mosaic ofunfiltered local experiences waiting to be lived. From the adrenaline rushof exploring its volcanic landscapes to the tranquility of soaking in an
onsen under the stars, every moment here is a story waiting to unfold.
Kyushu’s charm lies in its blend of raw natural beauty, deep-rooted
history, and warm hospitality. Whether it’s the thrill of samurai tales, theallure of culinary explorations, or the simple pleasure of a serene nature
walk, Kyushu is ready to welcome you with countless untold adventures.