- 4.9/5 505 Latest reviews
- Destination: Japan
- Duration: 8 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Discover the diverse beauty of Kyushu on this immersive 8-day journey that blends history, culture, and nature into one unforgettable experience. Beginning in Fukuoka, the vibrant gateway to Kyushu, explore iconic landmarks such as Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, the Kyushu National Museum, and the atmospheric Fukuoka Castle Ruins. Continue to Kumamoto, where the legendary Kumamoto Castle and the serene Suizenji Jojuen Garden reveal the region’s powerful samurai heritage and refined Edo-period aesthetics.
This expertly curated journey through Kyushu highlights some of Japan’s most dramatic natural landscapes, from the volcanic scenery of Mount Aso to the mythical beauty of Takachiho Gorge. Travel through the scenic countryside of Kokonoe and the charming onsen town of Yufuin before ending in Beppu, Kyushu’s famous hot spring capital, known for its striking geothermal “hells” and therapeutic onsen baths. Designed as a private and bespoke experience, this classic Kyushu tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, comfortable, and crowd-free exploration of Japan’s southern island.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 2
Fukuoka
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Kyushu National Museum, Fukuoka Castle Ruins
3 - 5
Kumamoto
Kumamoto Castle, Suizenji Jojuen, Aso Volcano, Takachiho Gorge
6 - 7
Kokonoe, Yufuin, Beppu
Kokonoe "YUME" Otsurihash, Kinrin Lake, Beppu Umi Jigoku, Beppu Chinoike Jigoku
8
Fukuoka
Departure
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka – Gateway to Kyushu
Arrive in Fukuoka, the vibrant northern gateway to Kyushu and a perfect introduction to southern Japan. Upon arrival, meet an airport assistant who will help you navigate public transportation to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy free time to relax or explore nearby neighborhoods. In the evening, head to the lively Tenjin district, where neon-lit streets, department stores, and local food stalls showcase Kyushu’s modern urban energy and culinary culture.
Highlights: Arrival in Kyushu, Fukuoka city experience, Tenjin shopping and street food
- Fukuoka
- Day 2: Fukuoka City Tour – Cultural Heart of Kyushu
Today, dive into Kyushu’s cultural and spiritual heritage with a visit to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, one of the region’s most important Shinto shrines, known for its elegant bridges and seasonal beauty. Continue to the Kyushu National Museum, where interactive exhibits trace the island’s history and cultural exchanges with Asia. Visit Komyozenji Temple, admired for its minimalist Zen rock and moss gardens, before returning to central Fukuoka to explore the historic Fukuoka Castle Ruins. End the day with a relaxing stroll around Ohori Park, a scenic lakeside retreat loved by locals.
Highlights: Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Kyushu National Museum, Komyozenji Temple, Fukuoka Castle Ruins, Ohori Park
- B
- Fukuoka
- Day 3: Fukuoka – Kumamoto | Samurai Legacy of Kyushu
Travel south through Kyushu to the historic city of Kumamoto, known for its strong samurai heritage. Begin with a visit to the legendary Kumamoto Castle, a symbol of resilience and one of the most impressive castles in Kyushu, featuring massive stone walls and reconstructed interiors. Continue to Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a beautifully landscaped Edo-period garden designed to represent the historic Tokaido Road, where tranquil ponds and walking paths offer a peaceful contrast to the city’s castle grandeur.
Highlights: Kumamoto Castle, Suizenji Jojuen Garden, Kyushu samurai heritage
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- Kumamoto
- Day 4: Mount Aso – Volcanic Landscapes of Kyushu
Explore the dramatic natural heart of Kyushu with a full-day excursion to Mount Aso, home to one of the world’s largest active volcanic calderas. Visit the Nakadake Crater, where rising steam and striking volcanic colors reveal nature’s raw power. Continue to Kusasenrigahama, a vast grassland plateau offering panoramic views of Aso’s peaks and grazing horses. Later, discover the mystical Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine, hidden deep within a cedar forest and known for its moss-covered stone steps and torii gates.
Highlights: Mt. Aso volcano in Kyushu, Nakadake Crater, Kusasenrigahama grasslands, Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
- B
- Kumamoto
- Day 5: Takachiho Gorge – Mythical Nature of Kyushu
Journey into the mountainous interior of Kyushu to experience the legendary Takachiho Gorge, a stunning canyon formed by ancient volcanic activity. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride along emerald-green waters beneath towering basalt cliffs and the cascading Manai Waterfall. Walk along the scenic trail to observation decks offering breathtaking views of the gorge. Visit Takachiho Shrine, surrounded by ancient cedar trees and deeply connected to Japanese mythology, adding a spiritual dimension to Kyushu’s natural beauty.
Highlights: Takachiho Gorge Kyushu, Manai Waterfall, Takachiho boat ride, Takachiho Shrine
- B
- Kumamoto
- Day 6: Kumamoto – Kokonoe – Yufuin – Beppu | Scenic Kyushu Countryside
Depart Kumamoto and travel through Kyushu’s scenic countryside. Stop at the spectacular Kokonoe “Yume” Suspension Bridge, Japan’s tallest pedestrian bridge, offering sweeping views of waterfalls and forested valleys. Continue to Yufuin, a charming onsen town known for boutique shops, art galleries, and the atmospheric Kinrin Lake, where morning mist often rises from the water. Arrive in Beppu by evening and check into your ryokan, where natural hot spring baths provide deep relaxation.
Highlights: Kokonoe Yume Suspension Bridge Kyushu, Yufuin onsen town, Kinrin Lake, Beppu hot springs
- B
- Beppu
- Day 7: Beppu – Geothermal Wonders of Kyushu
Today, explore Beppu, the onsen capital of Kyushu and one of Japan’s most famous hot spring cities. Visit the remarkable Beppu Hells, including Umi Jigoku, Chinoike Jigoku, Tatsumaki Jigoku, and Kamado Jigoku, each showcasing unique geothermal phenomena. Enjoy a traditional jigoku-mushi meal, where ingredients are steamed using natural hot spring vapors. End the day at the Beppu Observation Deck, offering panoramic views of Beppu City, Beppu Bay, and the surrounding mountains.
Highlights: Beppu Hells Kyushu, geothermal hot springs, jigoku-mushi cuisine, Beppu Observation Deck
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- Yufuin
- Day 8: Beppu – Fukuoka | Departure from Kyushu
Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Beppu, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of Kyushu’s hot spring region. After check-out, take a private transfer to Fukuoka Airport, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Kyushu, filled with history, nature, culture, and relaxation.
Highlights: Final morning in Kyushu, Beppu hot spring region, departure from Fukuoka
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