Kyushu: Traveling Japan’s Southern Gem
The southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, Kyushu is a compelling destination of otherworldly volcanic landscapes, historic cities, cultural treasures and some of the best food in Japan you’ll ever enjoy!
Often overshadowed by the neon-lit allure of Tokyo or the traditional charms of Kyoto – both of which are far more inundated with international tourism these days – a Kyushu tour offers a wealth of unique, local experiences that rival those found in its more famous counterparts.
Whether you’re on a honeymoon in Japan, a solo trip or traveling with a group, Kyushu deserves a spot on your Japan itinerary. From ramen-obsessed big city of Fukuoka to the mist-shrouded cedars of Yakushima, and from the relaxing onsen hot spring baths of Beppu & Yufuin to the history and international vibe of Nagasaki, Kyushu rewards the traveler who is looking to step off the beaten path and experience a more authentic and local Japan.
Fukuoka: Urban Sophistication Meets Culinary Paradise
As the largest city in Kyushu and the sixth-largest in Japan, Fukuoka serves as the ideal starting point on your Kyushu tour.
This vibrant metropolis (combined with Kitakyushu), known for its friendly locals and fantastic food scene, offers a variety of experiences for the discerning traveler.
Exploring Hakata and Tenjin: The City's Dual Cores
Fukuoka's urban core is split between two districts: historic Hakata and modern Tenjin. These are both great places to visit in Fukuoka.
In Hakata, the area surrounding the railway station hub (you’ll take the shinkansen to/from here) has vibes galore. Here, you'll find an array of shopping complexes, from the sleek JR Hakata City to the more traditional Kawabata Shopping Arcade.
Tenjin, meanwhile, represents Fukuoka's contemporary face. This district is popular among shoppers, with department stores like Iwataya and Mitsukoshi standing alongside trendy boutiques and the vast underground shopping labyrinth of Tenjin Chikagai.
Make sure Hakata and Tenjin are on your Fukuoka itinerary. You’ll likely want a hotel here to begin your Kyushu tour.
Culinary Delights: From Yatai Street Food to Fine Dining
Fukuoka might best be known for its food culture. And it’s not just about ramen (though ramen surely plays a major role here).
The city's famous yatai (street food stalls) line the riverside in Nakasu, offering an intimate and authentically local dining experience. Here, you can savor Hakata ramen, characterized by its rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, or try local specialties like mentaiko (spicy cod roe) and motsunabe (offal hot pot).
For a more refined culinary experience, Fukuoka boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants, including the innovative Japanese cuisine of Ryotei Sagano (2 stars) and the highly elevated sushi at Sushi Sakai (3 stars).
The nearby port area of Nagahama has its own style of ramen, unsurprisingly called Nagahama ramen. Though similar to its sister ramen in Hakata, Nagahama ramen has its devotees (particularly those working in the area) and can be found in ramen shops across Japan.
Cultural Landmarks: Fukuoka’s History
While Fukuoka embraces modernity, it hasn't forgotten its roots. The ancient Kushida Shrine, founded in 757, stands as a calm counterpoint to the city's urban energy. Visit in July to witness the spectacular Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, where massive, ornately decorated floats are raced through the city streets.
For a relaxing escape, Ohori Park offers a vast lake surrounded by walking paths and a meticulously maintained Japanese garden. The nearby Fukuoka Castle Ruins provide a glimpse into the city's feudal past, with cherry blossoms in spring adding an ephemeral beauty to the historic stoneworks.
Day Trips from Fukuoka: Expanding Your Horizons
Fukuoka's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring other parts of northern Kyushu. Weigh the options for these enriching day trips from Fukuoka on your Kyushu tour:
Dazaifu: Just 30 minutes from Fukuoka, this historic town is home to the stunning Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and the cutting-edge Kyushu National Museum
Yanagawa: Often called the "Venice of Kyushu," Yanagawa offers scenic canal tours in traditional punted boats
Karatsu: This coastal city is renowned for its castle, pottery, and picturesque seaside
Kurume: On the way between Fukuoka & Nagasaki, this is the home of Kurume-style ramen and is well worth a stop for lunch in one of its ramen shops)
While you’re perusing your Fukuoka day trip options, don’t forget that a Kyushu tour is about much more than Fukuoka. Let’s start with the most famous of its destinations next.
Nagasaki: Vibrant & Picturesque Port City with a Somber History
Perched on the western edge of Kyushu, Nagasaki tells a story of resilience, international exchange and profound historical significance.
This port city, once Japan's primary window to the Western world, showcases its own blend of Japanese and European influences. It’s a great part of any Kyushu tour, especially for those who appreciate history (and great food, of course).
Grappling with History: Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum
Nagasaki's most sobering attractions are undoubtedly those related to the atomic bombing of August 9, 1945.
The Nagasaki Peace Park, centered around the iconic Peace Statue, provides a space for reflection and remembrance. Nearby, the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum offers a harrowing yet essential look at the bombing and its aftermath, emphasizing the importance of peace and nuclear disarmament.
Echoes of International Influence in Nagasaki
Nagasaki's history as a hub of international trade is evident in its architecture and culture.
Glover Garden, a collection of Western-style mansions set on a hillside overlooking the harbor, offers insight into the lives of the foreign merchants who made Nagasaki their home in the 19th century. The garden's centerpiece, Glover House, is the oldest Western-style building in Japan.
Not far from Glover Garden stands Oura Church, Japan's oldest surviving Christian church. This Gothic-style structure, built by French missionaries in 1864, is evidence of Nagasaki's unique religious history and its role as a refuge for Japan's hidden Christians.
Culinary Fusion: Nagasaki’s “Champon” Mix
Nagasaki's cuisine reflects its multicultural heritage.
Don't miss the chance to try champon, a hearty noodle dish influenced by Chinese cuisine. It’s like ramen in some ways, though the broth is different and there are fewer “rules.” Really, it’s all mixed up!
Sweet tooths opt for Nagasaki castella, a sponge cake introduced by Portuguese traders. For a special dining experience, seek out shippoku ryori, a fusion cuisine that blends Japanese, Chinese and Western elements.
Beppu & Yufuin: An Onsen Hot Spring Destination of Its Own
Nestled on Kyushu's northeastern coast, Beppu has long been synonymous with Japan's onsen (hot spring) culture. It’s a common stop (for very valid reasons) on many Kyushu tours.
With more than 2,000 hot spring vents, this city is a haven for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
The Hells of Beppu: Nature's Spectacle
Beppu's most famous attractions are the Jigoku Meguri, or "Hells of Beppu." These eight spectacular hot springs are for viewing rather than bathing, each offering a unique visual spectacle. From the cobalt blue waters of Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) to the milky white pools of Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell), these natural wonders showcase the raw geothermal power beneath Beppu's surface.
Onsen Experiences: From Traditional to Unique
While the "hells" are for viewing, this whole area offers countless opportunities for bathing.
Onsen and Kyushu are practically synonymous, after all.
Traditional public baths like Takegawara Onsen, with its distinctive wooden exterior, provide an authentic local experience. For something truly unique, try a sand bath at Beppu Beach Sand Bath, where bathers are buried in naturally heated sand.
Beyond Beppu in Oita: Yufuin is Onsen Paradise
While Beppu’s onsen are set in and near a city, the hot springs destination of Yufuin is a whole other vibe.
About an hour by car or train from Oita airport (north of Beppu) on your Kyushu tour, Yufuin is a classic onsen town of Japan. Here it’s all about choosing the right lodging, usually in the form of a ryokan (Japanese inn). That’s where you’ll have most of your onsen experiences, either in the inn’s communal baths, or an onsen bath in the privacy of your room (some even offer balconies with baths).
Speaking of privacy in your room, ryokan offer lavish meals, both dinner and breakfast, and room service is often standard. While the town does have independent restaurants and other onsen baths that can be enjoyed a la carte, the typical Japanese way is to choose a ryokan with everything included and spend much of your time here.
Mt. Aso: Classic Kyushu Volcanoscapes Between Oita & Kumamoto
Whether you’re renting a car or getting around by train on your self-guided tour of Kyushu, a nice stop on the way between Beppu/Yufuin and Kumamoto is the Mount Aso national park area.
Home to one of the world's largest caldera, the Aso region offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking along the caldera rim to horseback riding across the Kusasenri plain. The Nakadake Crater, with its steaming turquoise lake, gives a visceral reminder of the earth's geothermal power.
In this same area is Kurokawa Onsen. You can combine this lovely onsen town with Yufuin on your Kyushu tour, or do a night here instead of Yufuin. Not sure which is right for your itinerary in Kyushu? Don’t hesitate to ask, we’re always happy to help!
Travelers enjoy great eats here as well, of course, including the famous “tori-ten” fried chicken restaurants (unlike standard “karaage” Japanese fried chicken, tori-ten is tempura-style chicken. A must when visiting this part of Kyushu!
Pro Tip: Check the volcanic activity levels before visiting Nakadake Crater, as access can be restricted during periods of heightened activity.
Kumamoto: Samurai Legacy Amidst Volcanic Grandeur
Central Kyushu's Kumamoto prefecture gives travelers a mix of samurai history and natural wonders, anchored by its capital city of the same name.
Kumamoto Castle: A Fortress Reborn
Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's premier castles, is a lasting element of the region's samurai heritage.
Although heavily damaged in the 2016 earthquake, ongoing restoration efforts have partially reopened the castle to visitors. The castle's massive stone walls and imposing keep offer insight into the architectural and military prowess of feudal Japan.
Kumamon: A Souvenir Must from Central Kyushu!
Kumamoto as a prefecture decided to create a mascot to revive its image and civic pride.
Known as Kumamon, this cute bear (like so much else in Japan that’s “kawaii” cute) has gained fame inside and beyond its borders. A Kumamon souvenir, such as a stuffed animal, cap or t-shirt, makes a nice gift for those back at home.
Kagoshima: Southern Gateway to Adventure
Sitting in the shadow of the active Sakurajima volcano, Kagoshima might be called the "Naples of the East" for its bay location and volcanic neighbor. But, is it really called that? And why do we call places the “blank” of the “east/west”, anyway?
Point is, if you’ve seen Mount Vesuvius towering over the bay from Naples before, well, Kagoshima may or may not remind you of that. But this is a Kyushu tour, after all, so let’s talk about Kagoshima.
The city of Kagoshima itself, at the southern end of Kyushu, is lovely enough. And that’s good, because that volcano has a habit of spewing off at random times, making travel to Sakurajima iffy on some days. No worries, at the very least, you’ll enjoy your stay in Kagoshima.
Kagoshima serves as an excellent base for exploring southern Kyushu and the nearby islands of Sakurajima and Yakushima.
Sakurajima: Living with a Volcano
A short ferry ride from downtown Kagoshima brings you to Sakurajima, one of Japan's most active volcanoes.
The Sakurajima Visitor Center provides comprehensive information about the volcano's history and current activity. Hiking trails around the volcano offer close-up views of the smoking crater and unique lava rock formations.
As mentioned before, check the forecast and conditions for Kagoshima and Sakurajima, early and often. Ask around as well, both at your hotel and at the ferry terminal, about how things are going. You’d hate to ruin your Kyushu tour, after all, by getting stuck on the island and missing flight or train connections.
Sengan-en: Japanese Garden Relaxation with a Window to the Past
This beautifully landscaped garden and former residence of the powerful Shimadzu clan offers stunning views of Sakurajima across the bay.
The adjacent Shoko Shuseikan Museum showcases the industrial innovations introduced by the Shimadzu family, which played a crucial role in Japan's modernization.
Yakushima: A Primeval Forest Paradise by Day Trip or Overnight
A short hydrofoil ride from Kagoshima port transports you to the mystical island of Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient cedar forests and unique ecosystem.
Hiking trails wind through moss-covered forests to magnificent waterfalls and thousand-year-old trees like the famous Jōmon Sugi.
Due to Yakushima's often rainy weather, come prepared with waterproof gear and allow some flexibility in your Kyushu tour schedule.
Embracing Kyushu's Famous Onsen Hot Springs
No Kyushu tour would be right without indulging in the region's renowned onsen culture.
While Beppu may be the most famous onsen destination, the entire island is dotted with hot spring resorts, each offering its own unique charm. Indeed, onsen in Kyushu play a pivotal both in the local culture as well as tourism here.
Notable Onsen Experiences in Kyushu
Kurokawa Onsen: This picturesque hot spring town in Kumamoto Prefecture is known for its traditional atmosphere and open-air baths set against stunning natural backdrops.
Yufuin Onsen: Located near Beppu, Yufuin offers a more laid-back onsen experience, with its hot springs complemented by art galleries and boutique shops.
Ibusuki Onsen: Famous for its unique sand baths, where bathers are buried in naturally heated volcanic sand.
Unzen Onsen: Situated in Nagasaki Prefecture, this resort area is known for its sulfurous springs and scenic location amidst active geothermal vents.
As discussed in our in-depth article on onsen hot spring life in Japan, be sure to follow onsen rules and etiquette. Also, travelers with tattoos may already know that body ink is forbidden in public baths in Japan; the ways around this are to either (a) cover up the tattoo with a skin-tone adhesive, if possible; (b) find an onsen where the tattoo rules are nonexistent or not enforced, or (c) book a ryokan with a private onsen in your room.
Make sure you’ve got an onsen (or two or three) included on the itinerary for your Kyushu tour.
Putting It All Together: Crafting Your Kyushu Itinerary
Whether you have a week or just a few days, Kyushu offers a wealth of experiences. Here's a sample itinerary to help you start planning:
Days 1-2: Explore Fukuoka, including a day trip to Dazaifu
Days 3-4: Visit Nagasaki, focusing on its unique history and cultural fusion
Day 5: Experience the onsen culture in Oita (Beppu or Yufuin)
Day 6: Discover Kumamoto Castle and Mount Aso
Days 7-8: Explore Kagoshima and take a day trip to Yakushima
Remember, this is just a starting point. Tailor your journey to your interests, whether that's delving deeper into Kyushu's culinary scene, spending more time in nature,or exploring its rich cultural heritage.
At Japan Travel Pros, one of our core services is Japan itinerary planning. Why not schedule your FREE initial consultation with us now, and find out how we can help put together memorable experiences for a Kyushu tour that will take your Japan trip to the next level?!
Traveling to Kyushu: How to Get There (Rail & Air Options)
Looking at how to get to Kyushu? Two primary options present themselves: the sleek efficiency of the shinkansen bullet train or the convenience of air travel.
By Rail: The Shinkansen Experience to & in Kyushu
The shinkansen, Japan's world-renowned bullet train, offers excellent connections to and around Kyushu. Combined with local and regional rail on either end, train travel in Kyushu and throughout Japan is popular for good reason.
From Tokyo, the shinkansen whisks passengers to Hakata Station in Fukuoka in approximately five hours. This journey, while longer than flying, provides unparalleled views of the Japanese countryside and coastline (you might even get a glimpse of Mt Fuji on the way – pro tip, get a window on the right side on the train to Kyushu, or a window on the left side going to Tokyo.
For those departing from Osaka, the trip is considerably shorter, taking just over two hours to reach Fukuoka. The Sakura and Mizuho Shinkansen services offer slightly longer but equally comfortable alternatives.
Perhaps you’ve been thinking about buying a Japan Rail Pass? If you plan to explore multiple regions, it is convenient and can pay off in some savings – but not always.
However, it’s important to note that the Japan Rail Pass doesn't cover the fastest Nozomi or Mizuho trains, which would require a fare upgrade. Oftentimes, point-to-point tickets work out as a better option than the rail pass.
By Air: Flying to Kyushu from Tokyo or Elsewhere
For travelers prioritizing speed, flying presents an attractive option. Numerous daily flights connect Tokyo's Haneda and Narita airports with Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Kagoshima with an average flight time of about two hours.
From Osaka, flights to Kyushu's major cities are even shorter, typically lasting just over an hour. This option is particularly appealing for those with limited time or those planning to focus their travels on southern Kyushu.
Even factoring in airport transfers and security procedures, which are remarkably efficient in Japan, flying can often be the right way to travel to/from Kyushu. Other times, the city-center to city-center convenience of the shinkansen can balance out the apparent time savings of flying, especially for routes such as Osaka-Fukuoka, Nagoya-Fukuoka or even Tokyo-Fukuoka (this one depends on where in Tokyo you’re starting from + which Tokyo airport)..
Kyushu: Well Worth the Addition on Your Japan Itinerary
Kyushu, with its volcanic scenery, rich history, great food and warm hospitality, offers a journey through Japan that many visitors never experience.
That’s why we encourage our clients to add Kyushu to your Japan itineraries.
As you plan your travels to this southern gem, remember that Kyushu's true magic often lies in its lesser-known corners: a family-run onsen tucked away in the mountains, a local festival in a small coastal town or a chance encounter with a craftsperson keeping ancient traditions alive.
Allow yourself the time and flexibility to discover these hidden treasures, and you'll find that Kyushu has a way of making you feel at home in Japan – and wanting to come back for more.