Kyushu Discovery
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Overview
Kyushu offers a very different atmosphere from Japan’s well-known “Golden Route” of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. With fewer crowds and a slower pace of travel, it allows you to experience a more authentic and relaxed side of Japan, where regional character and local life can truly be felt.
This tour is a customizable package designed to let you explore the many facets of Kyushu within one region. From hot springs and dramatic natural landscapes to mythology, history, traditional crafts, and locally rooted cuisine, Kyushu brings together the essential elements of Japanese culture in a rich and well-balanced way.
Rather than rushing between famous photo spots, the itinerary is thoughtfully designed to immerse you in the scenery, culture, and everyday life of each destination. When appropriate, private vehicles and local guides are used to minimize travel stress and ensure a deeper, more comfortable experience throughout the journey.
For those who wish to step away from busy tourist centers and discover a quieter, more genuine side of Japan, Kyushu is an ideal choice. It is a destination well suited not only to repeat visitors, but also to first-time travelers seeking a meaningful and memorable Japanese experience.
Japan Holidays Highlights
- Explore Kyushu, Japan’s southern island, known for its rich culture, nature, and hot springs
- Experience regional Japan beyond the Golden Route with fewer crowds and a relaxed pace
- Enjoy local food culture including Fukuoka’s famous yatai street stalls
- Discover Kyushu’s deep spiritual heritage through shrines, mythology, and historic towns
- Stay in traditional ryokan and experience authentic onsen culture
- Travel comfortably with a well-balanced easy paced itinerary designed for depth and sightseeing
Whats included
- 6-night accommodation in Western Style Hotels or Japanese Inns
- Train Transfers between destinations
- Daily breakfast
- Suggested itinerary guide
Whats excluded
- Flights – international and domestic
- Cost for beverages consumed and meals not included as indicated
- Entrance fees to museums, temples not mentioned in the itinerary
Sample Itinerary
After arriving at Fukuoka Airport, transfer to Hakata Station by train in approximately 5–10 minutes. Private transfers can also be arranged.
In the evening, enjoy a local dinner at Fukuoka’s famous yatai (street food stalls).
Sampling dishes such as ramen, yakitori and oden alongside local residents is one of the most authentic ways to experience Fukuoka’s food culture.
Please note: Meals at the yatai stalls are not included.
Visit Dazaifu, one of Japan’s most historically significant and respected shrine towns, before continuing to Yanagawa, a charming canal town known for its traditional atmosphere.
In Yanagawa, enjoy a leisurely river cruise through historic waterways lined with old merchant houses.
This unique experience offers a nostalgic glimpse into traditional Japan and is exclusive to this region.
Travel from Fukuoka to Nagasaki, a city shaped by centuries of international exchange.
Explore the city’s unique atmosphere, where Japanese and foreign influences blend seamlessly, reflecting Nagasaki’s role as Japan’s gateway to the world during the period of national isolation.
Travel from Nagasaki to Saga by train.
Upon arrival, continue your exploration of the region by private transfer.
Begin the day with a visit to a magnificent hillside shrine, renowned for its impressive architecture and spiritual atmosphere, followed by time at an adjacent art museum showcasing traditional Japanese aesthetics. An optional sake brewery tasting experience is also available.
Continue to Takeo to visit a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden that changes expression with the seasons, offering a moment of calm and reflection.
This serene day offers a deeper appreciation of Saga’s spirituality, artistic heritage, and tranquil natural beauty.
Travel from Nagasaki to Kumamoto via Shimabara Port and Kumamoto Port.
Upon arrival, enjoy visiting one of Japan’s most iconic castles, a powerful symbol of Japanese history and resilience.
Explore Kumamoto city with a private guide, visiting one of Japan’s most famous castles and nearby gardens.
Optional experiences such as traditional craft workshops or Iaido (Japanese swordsmanship) demonstrations can be arranged for those interested in hands-on cultural activities
Travel from Kumamoto to Takachiho, a sacred area deeply connected to Japanese mythology.
Enjoy the dramatic gorge scenery and the area’s mystical atmosphere before continuing to Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns.
Experience the steaming landscapes, onsen culture, and a traditional ryokan stay.
After breakfast, travel from Beppu back to Fukuoka, bringing your Kyushu journey to a close.
This itinerary concludes with lasting memories of Japan’s rich history, culture, nature, and cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Travellers who would like to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and history
Those who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience away from the busy Golden Route
Travellers interested in food, hot springs, nature, and traditional culture
Families and adults seeking an educational and enriching travel experience
The itinerary is designed with comfort in mind, combining bullet trains, limited express trains, and private transfers.
Long-distance travel is kept to a minimum, with private transfers arranged where appropriate.
Private local guides are included in Nagasaki, Saga, and Kumamoto.
Guiding can also be arranged in other regions upon request.
Our guides share local history and culture that cannot be found in guidebooks or online, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Yes, additional experiences can be arranged.
Options include tea ceremonies, pottery shard accessory-making, and traditional craft workshops, tailored to your interests.
Both family-friendly and adult-focused activities are available.
You can either fly into Fukuoka Airport or travel by Shinkansen to Hakata Station.
Absolutely.
The itinerary can be customised to suit your preferences, including changes to accommodation, adding destinations, or creating a more relaxed pace.