14 day itinerary
Kyushu
Itinerary
Kyushu is a beautiful region in Japan, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and relaxing onsen experiences. With your constraints in mind, here’s a delightful 14-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the beauty of Kyushu at a leisurely pace. Let’s get started!
Day 1: Arrival in
- Morning: Arrive at Airport. Pick up your rental car.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax. Explore the nearby for shopping and lunch.
- Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a yatai (street food stall) along the . Try local specialties like Hakata ramen!
Day 2: to Nagasaki (2h 30m drive)
- Morning: Drive to Nagasaki. Stop at the scenic if time allows.
- Afternoon: Visit the and .
- Evening: Stroll through the charming streets of and have dinner at a local izakaya.
Day 3: Nagasaki
- Morning: Take the tram to and enjoy the beautiful views.
- Afternoon: Visit the and then head to for panoramic views of the city.
- Evening: Dinner at a restaurant specializing in Nagasaki’s famous champon noodles.
Day 4: Nagasaki to Kumamoto (2h 30m drive)
- Morning: Depart for Kumamoto. Visit the upon arrival.
- Afternoon: Explore , a beautiful traditional Japanese garden.
- Evening: Check into a ryokan for your first onsen experience. Enjoy a kaiseki dinner.
Day 5: Kumamoto to Aso (1h drive)
- Morning: Drive to Aso. Visit the and take a scenic drive around the caldera.
- Afternoon: Explore the and enjoy a picnic lunch.
- Evening: Check into another ryokan in Aso for a relaxing onsen experience.
Day 6: Aso to Beppu (2h drive)
- Morning: Depart for Beppu. Visit the famous "Hells of Beppu" (Jigoku) for unique hot spring experiences.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a foot bath at one of the local onsen.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, trying Beppu’s famous onsen-steamed dishes.
Day 7: Beppu to (30m drive)
- Morning: Short drive to . Explore the quaint streets and art galleries.
- Afternoon: Visit and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Evening: Check into a ryokan in and indulge in another onsen experience.
Day 8: to Oita (30m drive)
- Morning: Drive to Oita. Visit the aquarium.
- Afternoon: Explore the local shopping areas and have lunch.
- Evening: Relax at an onsen in Oita, perhaps at the famous Takegawara Onsen.
Day 9: Oita to Miyazaki (2h drive)
- Morning: Depart for Miyazaki. Visit the beautiful and its shrine.
- Afternoon: Explore the scenic coastline and relax on the beach.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, trying Miyazaki beef.
Day 10: Miyazaki to Kagoshima (2h drive)
- Morning: Drive to Kagoshima. Visit the and enjoy views of .
- Afternoon: Take a ferry to and explore the volcanic island.
- Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya, enjoying Kagoshima’s unique cuisine.
Day 11: Kagoshima
- Morning: Visit the and then head to the for stunning views.
- Afternoon: Relax at an onsen in the area, perhaps at , known for its sand baths.
- Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 12: Kagoshima to Takachiho (2h 30m drive)
- Morning: Depart for Takachiho. Visit the and take a boat ride.
- Afternoon: Explore the local shrines and enjoy the beautiful nature.
- Evening: Check into a local ryokan and enjoy a traditional dinner.
Day 13: Takachiho to (3h drive)
- Morning: Drive back to . Stop at any interesting spots along the way.
- Afternoon: Visit and relax by the pond.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in .
Day 14: Departure from
- Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing in .
- Afternoon: Return your rental car and head to the airport for your departure.
This itinerary allows you to explore the best of Kyushu while enjoying a relaxed pace and indulging in the soothing onsen experiences. Each day is filled with beautiful sights, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities to create wonderful memories together. Enjoy your trip! 🌸
