14 day itinerary for 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 Fukuoka

• Morning: Arrive at Fukuoka Airport. Pick up your rental car.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax. Explore the nearby Tenjin area for shopping and lunch.
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a yatai (street food stall) along the Nakasu River. Try local specialties like Hakata ramen!

## Day 2: Fukuoka to Nagasaki (2h 30m drive)

• Morning: Drive to Nagasaki. Stop at the scenic Hashima Island (Gunkanjima) if time allows.
• Afternoon: Visit the Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum.
• Evening: Stroll through the charming streets of Dejima and have dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 3: Nagasaki

• Morning: Take the tram to Glover Garden and enjoy the beautiful views.
• Afternoon: Visit the Oura Church and then head to Mount Inasa 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 Kumamoto Castle upon arrival.
• Afternoon: Explore Suizenji Jojuen Garden, 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 Aso volcano and take a scenic drive around the caldera.
• Afternoon: Explore the Kusasenri grasslands 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 Yufuin (30m drive)

• Morning: Short drive to Yufuin. Explore the quaint streets and art galleries.
• Afternoon: Visit Lake Kinrin and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
• Evening: Check into a ryokan in Yufuin and indulge in another onsen experience.

## Day 8: Yufuin to Oita (30m drive)

• Morning: Drive to Oita. Visit the Oita Marine Palace (Umitamago) 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 Aoshima Island 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 Sengan-en Garden and enjoy views of Sakurajima.
• Afternoon: Take a ferry to Sakurajima and explore the volcanic island.
• Evening: Dinner at a local izakaya, enjoying Kagoshima’s unique cuisine.

## Day 11: Kagoshima

• Morning: Visit the Kagoshima Aquarium and then head to the Shiroyama Observatory for stunning views.
• Afternoon: Relax at an onsen in the area, perhaps at Ibusuki, 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 Takachiho Gorge 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 Fukuoka (3h drive)

• Morning: Drive back to Fukuoka. Stop at any interesting spots along the way.
• Afternoon: Visit Ohori Park and relax by the pond.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in Fukuoka.

## Day 14: Departure from Fukuoka

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Fukuoka.
• 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! 🌸