EXPLORE KYUSHU

Kyushu is the third largest island of Japan’s five main islands and the most southerly of the four largest islands.  Kyushu is known for warm, humid summers and mild winters, making it easy to visit in all seasons.  It’s an exciting landscape that exists nowhere else, filled with wide plains, relaxing beaches, active volcanoes, abundant hot springs and delic

Where is Kyushu?

The island of Kyushu is closer to Korea than Tokyo but easily reached from every major city in Japan. More than anything, Kyushu is characterized by the friendly people who call this island home. Over a thousand years of connections with other cultures has created a sense of warmth and acceptance, welcoming newcomers with a smile.

Each prefecture of Kyushu has its own airport, with direct flights from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, in 2 hours or less. Fukuoka is Kyushu’s busiest airport, with flights from other Asian cities including Singapore, Seoul and Shanghai

Kyushu Tours

Kyushu Discovery Tour

This tour is a customizable package designed to let you explore the many facets of Kyushu within one region.

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.

Kyushu FAQS

The best time to visit Kyushu is during spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and flowers such as cherry blossoms are in bloom. Autumn (September to November) is also ideal for pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December to February) is cooler but less crowded.

Each prefecture on Kyushu has its own airport; however, direct flights are not available from Australia, so the best access is either to transit via major Japanese hubs like Tokyo or Osaka, or through international hubs such as Taipei, Seoul and Singapore. The total journey typically takes around 10-14 hours, including layovers.

Fukuoka Airport (FUK) is the main air gateway to the island for either domestic or international routes.

There are also ferry options to reach Kyushu from mainland Japan (such as Tokyo, Osaka and Kobe), Shikoku Island and Okinawa, as well as international ferries to Busan (South Korea).

For domestic travel, you can also reach Fukuoka by highway bus. Most buses travel overnight, departing major cities including Tokyo and Osaka in the evening and arriving in Fukuoka in the morning.

The best way to get around Kyushu is by using the Kyushu Shinkansen (bullet train) for fast and convenient travel between major cities. For exploring rural areas, consider renting a car or using local buses and trains. Public transport is efficient and well-connected across the island.

To learn more about the transportation options available, visit:

https://www.visit-kyushu.com/en/plan-your-trip/getting-around/

Must-dos in Kyushu include visiting Fukuoka’s bustling Nakasu district, exploring the volcanic landscapes of Aso, and soaking in the hot springs of Beppu and Kurokawa Onsen. Don’t miss the historic city of Nagasaki and Kumamoto, and the beautiful coastal scenery of Kagoshima, including views of Mount Sakurajima.
Kyushu covers approximately 34,000 square kilometres (13,000 square miles), making it the third largest island in Japan. It features diverse landscapes, including mountains, volcanoes, and coastal areas, providing a wide range of experiences from urban exploration to natural adventures.
The main airports in Kyushu are Fukuoka Airport (FUK), which serves as the primary international gateway, and Kagoshima Airport (KOJ) and Kumamoto Airport (KMJ), which handle domestic and some international flights. These airports connect Kyushu to other major cities in Japan and international destinations.
A recommended stay in Kyushu is around 7 to 14 days. This duration allows you to explore major cities like Fukuoka and Nagasaki, enjoy the natural beauty of Aso and the hot springs in Beppu, and experience the unique culture and scenery of the island.

Yes, Kyushu is highly recommended for first-time visitors as well.
It offers a well-balanced mix of cities, nature, hot springs, food culture, and history, making it an ideal introduction to Japan.

If you would like to take part in one of Japan Holidays group tours but the dates don’t work- or you would like to travel with a group of friends- Japan Holidays are happy to create a custom-designed tour to suit – just let us know!

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