Itinerary

Kyushu is a beautiful island in Japan, rich in culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Here’s a fun and engaging 10-day itinerary that will let you experience the best of what Kyushu has to offer. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka

Morning: Arrive at Fukuoka Airport. After checking into your hotel, grab a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Japanese breakfast items!

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Tenjin area. Visit the Tenjin Underground Shopping Mall and enjoy some shopping. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful Ohori Park for a leisurely stroll.

Evening: Head to Nakasu, Fukuoka’s famous nightlife district. Enjoy dinner at a yatai (street food stall) and try local specialties like Hakata ramen.

## Day 2: Fukuoka to Nagasaki

Morning: Take a train to Nagasaki (about 2 hours). Once you arrive, visit the Nagasaki Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum to learn about the city’s history.

Afternoon: Explore Glover Garden, a beautiful open-air museum with Western-style houses and stunning views of the harbor.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and try Nagasaki’s famous champon (a noodle dish).

## Day 3: Nagasaki to Kumamoto

Morning: Visit Dejima, the former Dutch trading post, and learn about its fascinating history. Then, take a train to Kumamoto (about 2 hours).

Afternoon: Explore Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s most impressive castles. Don’t miss the beautiful Suizenji Jojuen Garden nearby.

Evening: Try Kumamoto’s local delicacy, basashi (raw horse meat), for dinner. It’s a unique experience!

## Day 4: Kumamoto to Beppu

Morning: Head to Beppu (about 2 hours by train). Once you arrive, check into a ryokan (traditional inn) for a true Japanese experience.

Afternoon: Visit the famous "Hells of Beppu" (Jigoku), a collection of hot springs with unique features. Each hell has its own charm, from the blood-red waters of Chinoike Jigoku to the milky blue waters of Umi Jigoku.

Evening: Enjoy an onsen (hot spring) experience at your ryokan. Relax and unwind in the soothing waters!

## Day 5: Beppu to Yufuin

Morning: Take a short trip to Yufuin, a picturesque onsen town (about 30 minutes by train). Stroll around the charming streets lined with shops and cafes.

Afternoon: Visit the Yufuin Art Museum or take a walk around Lake Kinrin, known for its beautiful scenery and hot spring steam rising from the water.

Evening: Enjoy a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, featuring seasonal and local ingredients.

## Day 6: Yufuin to Kagoshima

Morning: Depart for Kagoshima (about 3 hours by train). Once you arrive, visit the Sengan-en Garden, which offers stunning views of Sakurajima volcano.

Afternoon: Explore the city and visit the Kagoshima Aquarium, which is home to a variety of marine life.

Evening: Try Kagoshima’s famous kurobuta (Berkshire pork) for dinner. It’s a must-try!

## Day 7: Sakurajima Day Trip

Morning: Take a ferry to Sakurajima, the active volcano. Explore the island, visit the Sakurajima Visitor Center, and take a hike to enjoy the views.

Afternoon: Relax in one of the outdoor foot baths with a view of the volcano. It’s a perfect way to unwind!

Evening: Return to Kagoshima and enjoy a casual dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 8: Kagoshima to Miyazaki

Morning: Travel to Miyazaki (about 2 hours by train). Visit the beautiful Aoshima Island and its famous Aoshima Shrine.

Afternoon: Explore the scenic coastline at Sun Messe Nichinan, where you can see replicas of the Moai statues from Easter Island.

Evening: Try Miyazaki chicken, known for its rich flavor, at a local restaurant.

## Day 9: Miyazaki to Takachiho

Morning: Head to Takachiho (about 1.5 hours by bus). Visit the Takachiho Gorge, where you can take a boat ride and admire the stunning waterfalls.

Afternoon: Explore the Takachiho Shrine and learn about the local mythology, including the legend of the sun goddess.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local inn, and if you’re lucky, catch a performance of the Takachiho Kagura dance.

## Day 10: Return to Fukuoka

Morning: Travel back to Fukuoka (about 3 hours by train). Spend your last day shopping for souvenirs and enjoying any sights you may have missed.

Afternoon: Visit the Fukuoka Tower for panoramic views of the city and the bay.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reminiscing about your amazing journey through Kyushu!

Tips:

• Make sure to get a JR Kyushu Rail Pass for convenient travel between cities.
• Always check the local weather and pack accordingly, especially for onsen visits.
• Don’t hesitate to try local delicacies; each region has its own specialties!

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your trip to Kyushu! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌸✈️