Discover Kyushu: Japan off the beaten track

Itinerary

Itinerary:
Fukuoka - Nagasaki - Kagoshima - Kumamoto - Mount Aso - Yunohira - Fukuoka
Duration:
12 days / 11 nights (flexible)
Price:
Low season - from £2,499 per person (excluding flights)
High season - from £3,425 per person (excluding flights)
Highlights:
✓ Discover lesser-known highlights that are off the beaten track
✓ Relax in an authentic Japanese onsen
✓ Learn about the country’s intriguing history

If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-track Japan adventure, this itinerary is for you. Kyushu is Japan's third largest island, yet it attracts only a handful of visitors. This varied tour showcases a different side of Japan, and introduces you to the natural wonders and unique cultural highlights of the charming island of Kyushu.

Day 1 – Welcome to Fukuoka.

The gateway city on the island of Kyushu is Fukuoka, and this is where you’ll fly into. From the airport, it’s just a short metro ride to your city hotel. With public transport being efficient and easy to navigate, you can explore the city with ease via bus or metro. You’ll stay in a simple, mid-range hotel

Day 2 – Experience Fukuoka

With a local guide by your side, today you’ll be going on a tour of the city, wandering through the local streets and taking in the highlights and hidden gems of Fukuoka. You’ll start in tranquil Ohori Park, and then explore the quiet alleyways of old Hakata, where you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. Your guide will share stories and secrets of the city, allowing you to get to know Fukuoka in depth. From historical landmarks to modern wonders, this tour will reveal the rich mix of old and new that this city is known for.

Day 3 – Nagasaki: A touch of Europe

When you think of Japan, the iconic high-speed train is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. Today will be your first experience of the Shinkansen as you travel from Fukuoka to the welcoming city of Nagasaki. You’ll be using a 7-day Japan Rail Pass, which covers almost all JR Railway trains. In Nagasaki, you’ll stay in a traditional Japanese hotel, near the tram station, so you can explore the city with ease.

Day 4 – Nagasaki tour

While Nagasaki may be less well-known than Hiroshima, the two cities are similar. It was here that the second atomic bomb was dropped on August 9 1945, just three days after Hiroshima. Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll delve into the rich history and culture of this remarkable city. Begin your day with a visit to the Peace Park, where you’ll learn more about the impact of World War II on Nagasaki. Then, stroll through the charming Dejima district, a historic trading post where Japan and the Netherlands once came together. Your guide will share insights and local stories as you walk.

Day 5 – Kagoshima & the mighty Sakurajima

Today, you’ll travel by train from Nagasaki to Kagoshima, a journey that takes about three hours. Kagoshima is set on a large bay, with the active Sakurajima volcano rising majestically in the background. The city has a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. If you arrive early enough, take a trip to Ibusuki to experience the unique sand baths. Here, you’ll be buried in hot volcanic sand, said to have healing properties. For the next two nights, you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel that is centrally located and conveniently close to a tram station, making it easy to explore the city and beyond.

Day 6 – Free time in Kagoshima

Today, you can visit the volcanic island of Sakurajima, which is accessed by car or passenger ferry. Starting at the visitor centre, where you’ll get a general overview of the volcano and the peninsula, you can then explore the island itself on one of the island buses. The bus, which departs from the harbour, circles Sakurajima, stopping at nine stations and allowing time for you to get off and take photos before hopping back on and continuing the tour.

Day 7 – Stopover in Kumamoto

Time to jump back on the train as you travel to Kumamoto – home to one of Japan’s most impressive and historic castles: Kumamoto-jo. The castle, originally built in the early 17th century, suffered significant damage during the devastating 2016 earthquake, and the inner grounds have only recently reopened to the public. It’s a fascinating place to visit, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal history and architectural beauty.

Today, you’ll pick up your rental car and, with the help of Google Maps, you’ll drive to the Aso region, located in the heart of Kyushu. This area is home to one of the largest volcanic craters in the world. Inside the caldera stand various active volcanic peaks, including the smouldering Mt Nakadake, which rises to 1,506 metres above sea level. Make sure to swing by the excellent Aso Volcano Museum to learn about the volcanic activity and the region’s geological features. You will spend the next two nights in traditional Japanese accommodation, where a traditional Japanese breakfast and dinner are included. If you prefer a more Western-style stay, just let us know, and we’ll arrange it for you.

Day 9 – Exploring Mount Aso

This morning, you can drive into the heart of the crater area, stopping at the Aso Volcano Museum and then visiting the crater rim of Naka-dake. Depending on the weather conditions and volcanic activity, access to the crater is sometimes closed, so it’s a good idea to check at the visitor centre. Whether you’re looking for a short, easy hike or something a bit more adventurous, there is something for everyone at Mount Aso.

If you’ve got time, you could take a trip to the Takachiho Gorge (about an hour’s drive away) where you’ll find breathtaking cliffs, crystal-clear waters and the iconic Manai Falls. The gorge was formed following volcanic activity, when lava flows carved into the dramatic cliffs now lining the Gokase River. You can rent a rowing boat and paddle beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls, or take a gentle walk along the riverside paths for some beautiful views.

After an active day exploring the smouldering peaks of Aso, continue your journey to the peaceful town of Yunohira, nestled in the mountains. Yunohira is a small, relatively unknown town, offering the perfect setting to unwind and relax. You’ll be warmly welcomed into a Japanese ryokan, where you’ll stay overnight. Enjoy a green tea in your traditional Japanese-style room, followed by a soothing soak in the onsen (hot spring) at the ryokan. To immerse yourself even more in local culture, visit one of the many public onsens in Yunohira. The village is especially charming in the evening when the red lanterns light up, creating a magical atmosphere.

Today, you’ll drive back to Fukuoka, rounding up your journey through Kyushu with a scenic drive. You’ll spend your last night in Fukuoka reflecting on the incredible experiences you’ve had, before heading to the airport to catch your international flight home the following day.